Sustainable solutions dominate '2010 PACK EXPO Selects'

TEN finalist packages in the "2010 PACK EXPO Selects" competition have been selected, announced by Pack Expo International producer PMMI on 7th October. These packages were displayed in the "Showcase of Packaging Innovation" sponsored by The Dow Chemical Company at McCormick Place in Chicago from 31st October to 3rd November. The annual awards programme, now on its fifth year, recognises innovative commercial packages developed, produced or executed exclusively by Pack Expo exhibitors.

Call to Reduce Waste

According to Charles D. Yuska, president and CEO of PMMI, the 10 finalist packages largely reflect a call to reduce waste. "Some of the finalist packages tout lighter weights as a way to reduce transportation needs, and therefore costs and emissions; others are reusable by consumers. One even provides a way for consumers to recycle their toothbrushes," says Mr Yuska. Baby Food Pouch Ampac Flexibles This pouch for "Sprout" organic baby food from Ampac Flexibles reduces waste in manufacturing and transport of the finished product largely in terms of energy consumption - especially compared to traditional glass baby food jars. The lighter weight package means easier transportation and fewer emissions. Handled Buckets Airlite Plastics Co. The IML "Handled Bucket" Line consist of in-mould labelled and handled containers for food and non-food products, which are reusable and fully recyclable. Thermal Bags Coldkeepers, LLC KOLD-TO-GO Thermal Bags integrate Coldkeepers' patented three-ply technology for added performance, keeping products cold or hot for hours. This bag also prevents freezer burn. Pre-Measured Ingredients Tegrant Corp., Alloyd Brands This new, convenient package for "McCormick Recipe Inspirations" allows consumers never to have to guess again how much of one ingredient to use. All ingredients are pre-measured and pre-packaged for the chosen recipe. Childproof Cap Clever Pack, co-exhibiting with INP "CP 1.1" is a new childproof cap that is 30 per cent more sustainable than similar products because of its lighter, lower-cost and more practical design. Reusable Side Containers Anchor Packaging These new containers used for KFC side dishes have great heat resistance, allowing back-of-the-house modifications that increase speed of service whilst ensuring continued food safety. These packages are reusable, which is the highest form of sustainability. The patented venting feature allows moisture vapour to vent without increasing the risk of product contamination. Flexible Toothbrush Package Printpack The first - and only - flexible package in the toothbrush market uses significantly less material than a traditional toothbrush package. With the reduction in materials comes less waste and lighter weight, which, in turn, result in improved shipping efficiencies. The most unusual aspect is that it has a second life as a postage-paid return mailer to encourage even more people to return their used toothbrushes for recycling. Pet Food Packaging Stewart's of America, Inc. The perforations on this pet food package can be adjusted mechanically, in the web direction, and electronically, in the machine direction. To do this, the bag is put onto the line and "sucked" into place with the holes on the bottom of the package. The package can then be filled and closed at the top. Rocket-Shaped Bottle Printpack The bottle for this brain-boosting energy drink, "ZUN", is shaped like a rocket. Labelling challenges resulting from the curvature of the bottle (which tapers more than 75 per cent at the top) are solved with a shrink sleeveNike Air Max 2017