The Challenges and Innovations in Deep-Frozen Food Transport

In the world of food logistics, transporting frozen products presents unique challenges. The frozen food market continues to evolve, with some segments seeing growth while others face increased competition from fresh alternatives. Regardless of market fluctuations, the importance of proper packaging remains paramount in ensuring food quality and safety throughout the supply chain.

Understanding Deep Freezing and Navigating the Frozen Food Journey

Deep freezing is more than just a cold storage method. It's a delicate process that can significantly impact food quality. When food is rapidly frozen to temperatures below -18°C, ice crystals form quickly, preserving the cellular structure of the food. However, these frigid temperatures pose significant challenges for packaging materials.

A wide variety of foods are typically deep frozen for transportation and storage. These include seafood like fish and shellfish, meats, fruits and vegetables, ready-made meals, and certain bakery products. Deep freezing is necessary during long transport to maintain food safety, preserve nutritional value, and extend shelf life. It effectively halts bacterial growth and slows down enzymatic reactions that can lead to food spoilage, ensuring that products reach consumers in optimal condition, regardless of the distance travelled.

Extreme cold, such as -40°C, can be particularly problematic for many plastics. As temperatures plummet, some plastics become brittle and prone to cracking. Thermal contraction can cause warping or dimensional changes, potentially compromising the seal integrity of the packaging. The wrong plastic choice can lead to shattered containers and contaminated food products.

The journey of deep-frozen food is fraught with potential issues. Temperature fluctuations during transit can cause freeze-thaw cycles, putting immense stress on the packaging. Physical impacts during handling and transportation can shatter weakened containers. Moreover, moisture can condense and form ice crystals, potentially damaging both the packaging and the food inside.

Innovative Solutions: MCP's OnTray DM

In response to these challenges, MCP has developed specialized packaging solutions. One example is OnTray DM, an impact-modified CPET tray engineered to withstand temperatures as low as -40°C. Available in various shapes, colors, and sizes, such trays offer versatile options for deep-frozen food packaging.

The specialized packaging solution aims to overcome the typical issues plastics face in extreme cold. These trays are designed to maintain structural integrity, resisting cracking and shattering even at very low temperatures. This durability helps ensure that food quality is preserved throughout the supply chain, from production to the consumer's freezer.

Robust designs resist cracking and shattering, even under physical stress. Well-designed trays can prevent moisture ingress, protecting food from freezer burn and ice crystal formation. Throughout temperature fluctuations and physical impacts, these packaging solutions aim to maintain their structural integrity.

OnTray DM food packaging is suitable for a wide range of applications. From ready meals to gourmet dishes, these trays can accommodate various food types. Industries such as airline catering, meal kit services, and institutional food services can benefit from these innovative packaging solutions.

Environmental Considerations

In addition to performance benefits, modern frozen food packaging often considers environmental impact. MCP uses the recyclable PET, contributing to circular economy efforts. Moreover, by better-preserving food quality, these packaging solutions can potentially reduce food waste, addressing a significant global environmental concern.

As the frozen food industry continues to evolve, the role of advanced packaging remains crucial. Innovations such as OnTray DM in packaging technology represent significant steps forward in addressing the challenges of deep-frozen food transport. By focusing on food quality preservation, enhancing durability, and considering environmental impact, these advancements are helping to shape a more efficient and sustainable frozen food supply chain.