Waitrose launches fresh fish range in oven-ready paper parcels

Waitrose has unveiled a new "En Papillote" fresh fish range, showcasing innovative packaging designed to enhance the cooking experience. The fish is presented in hand-crafted parchment paper parcels, allowing it to steam in its natural juices while locking in flavour and aroma.

This packaging concept draws from the traditional French cooking technique "en papillote," where ingredients are sealed in paper to create a self-contained steaming process. The parchment paper not only eliminates the need for hands-on preparation but also ensures the fish remains moist and tender.

The paper parcels are oven-ready, allowing customers to simply cook the fish in its tray and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in just 20 minutes. The parchment helps to infuse the fish with aromatic seasonings, resulting in a rich, flavourful sauce that elevates the overall dining experience.

This innovation also addresses common hesitations around cooking fish, such as uncertainty about preparation or concerns about smell and texture. By offering a simple, pre-prepared solution, Waitrose aims to make fresh fish more accessible and appealing to customers.

The launch highlights a growing trend in sustainable and functional food packaging. By using parchment paper, the range reflects Waitrose's commitment to environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic, further aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable packaging solutions.

Natalie Kelsey, product developer at Waitrose, said: We are delighted to launch the first fish “En Papillote” to the market - an easy, healthy and delicious option that suits our customers' busy lifestyles. Overcoming the dreaded ‘fish fear’, this style of cooking allows the freshness of the ingredients to truly shine. As the perfect mid-week solution, I love to serve mine with wholegrain rice, egg noodles or veggies for the perfect balanced meal.

With its focus on convenience, sustainability, and culinary excellence, the new fish "en papillote" range offers a fresh approach to enjoying seafood at home.