New guide addresses packaging challenges in North American fresh-produce sector

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and a group of industry partners have released a new guide aimed at tackling packaging challenges across the North American fresh-produce supply chain.

The publication, Roadmap for Recyclability and Sustainability, outlines key considerations for improving material efficiency, recyclability, and food safety within fresh-produce packaging. It brings together input from growers, packers, retailers, and packaging experts to help businesses make informed decisions about materials and formats.

According to the CPMA, the guide seeks to provide a practical framework for transitioning to more sustainable packaging while ensuring compliance with evolving regulations in Canada and the United States. It also aims to promote greater alignment between producers and recyclers to improve recovery rates and reduce contamination in waste streams.

Jeffrey Brandenburg, QFresh Lab, says: Fresh produce is alive. There must be a symbiotic relationship between the packaging and the produce. The packaging must allow the produce to ‘breathe’.

The roadmap highlights the importance of collaboration across the value chain as the fresh-produce industry adapts to shifting consumer expectations and increasing environmental standards.