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The fruit packaging and vegetables are much more than just a protective covering: they are the first point of contact between the product and the buyer, and a crucial tool for extending the shelf life of perishable products. In a market as competitive as Colombia’s agribusiness sector, choosing the right packaging can be the difference between winning over a new customer or losing a sale because a product doesn’t look as it should.
If your company produces, sells, or exports fruits and vegetables, this guide will help you understand what features to look for in industrial packaging, which materials are most recommended, and how to identify the ideal manufacturer for your operation.
What should good packaging for fruits and vegetables offer?
The selection of industrial packaging for fruit Start by understanding the specific needs of the product. Packaging strawberries, which are highly sensitive to mechanical stress, is not the same as packaging apples or oranges, which can withstand handling better. However, there are general characteristics that all packaging for fruits and vegetables must meet:
Visibility: The packaging should allow the buyer to see the product. The transparency of PET and RPET is ideal for this, as it builds trust and reduces purchase anxiety when the customer cannot touch the product.
Proper ventilation: Fruits and vegetables continue to respire after harvest, releasing ethylene and moisture. Packaging without ventilation can accelerate spoilage. Industrial packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables must allow for controlled air circulation.
Mechanical strength: The packaging must protect the product from impacts and crushing during transport, especially when handling large volumes.
Cold Chain Compatibility: Many agricultural products are transported and stored at low temperatures. The packaging must remain intact under these conditions.
Recommended Materials for Packaging Fruits and Vegetables
PET and RPET: The Best Choice for the Agribusiness Industry
PET and its recycled version, the RPET, are the materials most commonly used by the fruit packaging manufacturers in Colombia. They offer high transparency and mechanical strength and are suitable for direct contact with food when they are INVIMA-certified. RPET adds value as a sustainable material, made from recycled post-consumer plastics, which reduces the environmental impact of the production chain.
Export companies and large supermarket chains are increasingly prioritizing manufacturers of recyclable packaging for wholesale fruit suppliers that can offer RPET solutions. This not only responds to market trends but also to increasingly strict regulations on the use of virgin plastics.
Advantages of Thermoforming for Fruit and Vegetable Packaging
The thermoforming process makes it possible to create packaging with complex shapes that fit the product perfectly. The manufacturers of thermoformed packaging for fruit They can design compartments that hold each unit of the product, reducing damage caused by vibration during transport. This is especially valuable for fragile products such as blueberries, cherries, or cherry tomatoes.
Types of Packaging for Fruits and Vegetables by Distribution Channel
For supermarkets and big-box stores
The fruit packaging Products intended for supermarkets must meet standards for labeling, shelf design, and presentation that facilitate product turnover. Formats such as lidded trays or containers with side ventilation are ideal for this channel, as they allow the product to be displayed attractively and keep it fresh longer.
For export
The packaging for fruit exports must also meet the requirements of the target market. This includes resilience to long supply chains, compliance with the importing country’s regulations, and—in many cases—sustainability certifications. The manufacturer It should be a partner that is familiar with these regulations and provides technical guidance throughout the process.
For wholesale distribution
When distributing to wholesale markets such as Corabastos or regional markets, the wholesale fruit packaging They prioritize durability and logistical efficiency. High-capacity, stackable formats that are easy to handle with forklifts are best suited for this channel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Packaging for Fruits and Vegetables
What is the difference between ventilated and airtight packaging for fruit?
Packaging with side vents allows air to circulate, which reduces the buildup of gases and moisture that accelerate spoilage. It is ideal for fresh fruits and vegetables that are sold within a few days. Airtight packaging creates a controlled atmosphere that is useful for products requiring a longer shelf life or special storage conditions.
Can I use the same packaging for different types of fruit?
It depends on the format. Some multi-purpose gaskets They can be used for different types of fruit with similar characteristics, but products with significant differences in size, weight, or fragility usually require specific packaging to ensure adequate protection.
Is RPET packaging just as durable as packaging made from virgin PET?
Yes. When RPET meets the quality standards of the recycling process, its mechanical properties are comparable to those of virgin PET. The key is to choose a manufacturer that guarantees the quality of the recycled material through certifications and rigorous quality controls.
What certifications should I ask my fruit packaging supplier for?
At a minimum, obtain INVIMA certification for direct contact with food. If you plan to export to Europe, verify that the material complies with EU Regulation 10/2011 on plastic materials intended to come into contact with food. Sustainability certifications such as the Loop Seal also add value in international markets.
Lamiempaques: Manufacturers of RPET packaging for fruits and vegetables in Colombia
In Lamiempaques we are manufacturers of RPET packaging for fruit and vegetables, with 25 years of experience in the Colombian market. Our Freshpack containers are recognized as the only ones on the domestic market with a patented ventilation system, making them particularly effective for preserving fresh produce.
If you're looking for a wholesale fruit packaging supplier Reliable, INVIMA-certified, and committed to the environment—contact us today. We have the capacity and product portfolio to support your operations at any volume.
