Corrugated Boxes for Perishables

Michelman’s customized solutions meet both the performance and recycling demands of today’s corrugated packaging

Economical corrugated boxes have long been coated with wax to help them withstand the rigors of getting perishable foods to market. Today, growers and retailers are looking for alternatives to wax for two reasons: wax is becoming more expensive; and wax-coated boxes are not recyclable.

Water-based barrier coatings from Michelman address both concerns. They are affordable, repulpable and can be custom-formulated to meet the packaging requirements of a wide range of fresh and frozen food and floral products.

In addition to offering an excellent alternative to wax coating, our products are enabling corrugated to replace other types of packaging, including:
  • Returnable plastic containers
  • Wirebound wood crates
  • Styrofoam packages

Tailored Solutions that Add Packaging Value

Because the needs of many products are unique, we have formulators, application specialists and field packing experts who collaborate with a product’s entire supply chain to ensure that all concerns are addressed.

A number of considerations go into creating the most appropriate solution:
  • The packing method. How foods are packed—in the field, the shed, the processing plant or at sea—helps determine how much water shed/resistance is required.
  • The cooling method. A number of MVTR coatings can address the moisture resistance needs of pressure/FA cooled, vacuum cooled, hydrovac cooled and frozen foods. Frozen foods such as meat patties and poultry also often require release.
  • Storage conditions. Foods stored in high humidity require added box strength. Our FibreMax medium enhancements can be applied inside and/or outside the box to add compression strength.
  • Shipping time. Our highest-performing products ensure the superior protection products stored for longer periods require.
  • Food contact regulations. Coatings are formulated to meet a wide range of FDA requirements, including direct contact with fatty, aqueous and dry foods.
  • Box processing. How the box will be glued and/or printed helps determine the right product selection. Some products are better suited to printing than others; some can only be hot-melt glued.
The selected coating and application method will usually offer a combination of release, water/oil/moisture resistance, strength enhancement, cold-set gluability and print-receptivity. We find that with all parties working together, a solution that benefits everyone’s bottom line can be quickly achieved.

Properties That Affect Corrugated - Perishables

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