When preservation is paramount

New technologies keep baked goods fresh longer.
A VARIETY of technologies promising better closures and product protection are enhancing shelf life of baked goods. The way a package opens and closes is a source of major innovation in the baked goods industry. Along with product protection, these new technologies often provide additional product value.

Such is the case with the Cryovac Multi-Seal FoldLOK reclosable packaging line from Sealed Air, which recently expanded its stand-up pouch line to accommodate a wider range of food items, such as miniature doughnuts and bite-sized cookies. A folding mechanism makes this re-closable pouch design unusual. After opening the item for the first time, the consumer folds the top of the bag over a strip and the materials stick together to seal the package.

The package can open and reclose several times over the life of the product.

The absence of a zipper component blocks out humidity and enables a user-friendly closing process (especially for children and the elderly), as well as a reduction in packaging materials.

Peel and reseal
The Peel and ReSeal Lidding Film technology from Clear Lam Packaging delivers the same benefits of protection, convenience and sustainability.

“Processors and retailers are demanding packaging that helps extend product freshness, protect the product from bruising, stay cost efficient, and meet sustainability goals,” said marketing manager, Jim Foster.

The company’s open/easy close lidding system can be hermetically sealed, enabling a modified atmosphere to extend product shelf life and reduce food waste. The technology eliminates the need for rigid lids and shrink bands, and also reduces package weight.

Converter LaserSharp FlexPak Services, LLC employs laser scoring and perforating applications, including its newest development, the production of a peel and reclose process.

“This innovation is designed to help produce packages that are convenient, easy to open, and then are later used to easily store the package’s contents. The peel and reclose process can be applied to packages meant to store and preserve perishable food items, such as baked goods,” said Jessica Ley, office and marketing coordinator. A pressure-sensitive adhesive material makes it easy to open and seal the packaging. For convenience, an open pull-tab can be added to the package.

In addition to the latest peel and reclose development, the company’s laser perforating process can help extend shelf life by controlling the amount of oxygen, carbon dioxide and moisture inside the package.

“This process will also aid in the reduction of condensation and bacteria growth, whilst keeping the product fresh with improved flavour,” said Ms Ley.

Shrink wrap, tin cans
A sophisticated opening and closing mechanism means nothing, if the package itself doesn’t offer protection. Some manufacturers opt to shrink wrap their baked goods, but the process isn’t always simple.

“Shrink wrapping baked goods such as pies, cakes and pizzas, can be a challenge for many manufacturers because of debris and toppings that can fall off, causing issues with shrink seal quality, shelf life and appearance,” said Nick Rakhshani, marketing manager, Extreme Packaging Machinery.

The Revolution XR-Series automated shrink wrap system from the company includes a stainless steel full wash-down design and a modular servo multi-belt infeed integrated with a continuous motion wrapper. The customisable design allows loose toppings to fall away before the product is sealed, a feature Mr Rakhshani said makes the XR-Series ideal for the high-speed shrink wrapping of baked goods.

Decorative and industrial tin manufacturer Allstate Can Corporation offers a baked good packaging solution that harkens back to simpler days. Its standard Slip Cover Can isNike Converse Shoes