Laser etching on mangoes eliminates plastic stickers in Europe

Laser etching replaces plastic stickers on mangoes in Europe credit Westfalia
Technology

Westfalia Fruit, a multinational fresh produce supplier, has introduced laser-etched mangoes as part of its sustainability efforts. The initiative, launched by its operations in the Netherlands, aims to eliminate the need for plastic price look-up (PLU) stickers on individual fruits.

The development follows extensive testing to ensure the etching process preserves both the fruit's quality and shelf life. Customer feedback on the laser-etched mangoes has been largely positive, and Westfalia plans to expand this approach across Europe.

© Westfalia Fruit

The initiative underscores Westfalia’s commitment to combining innovation with sustainable practices in fresh produce packaging.

Mathijs Benard, Head of Operations Central Europe who joined the Netherlands-based team in March this year and who has been heavily collaborating with the German operations team, says: Since joining Westfalia, my focus has been on improving collaboration and efficiency. The introduction of laser etching, which is almost like a tattoo on the mango, has been an exciting project. Not only does it make the fruit stand out in-store, but it also has the potential to save up to 10 million plastic stickers a year. What we can laser on the fruit is only limited by our imagination and customer needs. Currently, we are etching the fruit origin, customer branding, and product reference.

The project reflects a collaboration between Westfalia’s teams in the Netherlands and Germany. Known for its expertise in avocados, the company’s production facilities in Poeldijk also provide year-round packing services for a variety of vegetables, including sprouts and capsicums.

Latest Packaging News

Bradman Lake to showcase compact cartoner and case packer at PPMA Total Show
Supplier News

Bradman Lake to showcase compact cartoner and case packer at PPMA Total Show

Bradman Lake, a global leader in packaging technology, will present its compact cartoner and case...
The ultimate guide to commercial packaging solutions
Supplier News

The ultimate guide to commercial packaging solutions

In today’s competitive market, commercial packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring products are...
Amazon advances global packaging reduction and sustainability efforts
Sustainability

Amazon advances global packaging reduction and sustainability efforts

Around the world, Amazon continues to focus on reducing packaging and making the materials it uses...
Amcor announces shortlist for latest Lift-Off competition
Business

Amcor announces shortlist for latest Lift-Off competition

Four innovative start-ups selected for solutions that provide barriers for compostable substrates...
Bradman Lake unveils WR6X: A revolutionary robotic case packer designed to maximise output without expanding footprint
Supplier News

Bradman Lake unveils WR6X: A revolutionary robotic case packer designed to maximise output without expanding footprint

Bradman Lake, a leading British manufacturer of integrated packaging technology, is proud to...