Innovations:: Packaging

Keeping Fresh Fruit Looking Its Best

The Challenge

Fresh fruit has enormous popularity because it tastes delicious and it’s healthy. Retailers like the fact that high-value produce is being shipped more and more in display-ready containers, which saves labor costs. However, produce is fragile and subject to shipping damage, especially when the container is hit by other packages. Consumers will not purchase pieces that are bruised. This is a problem for both growers and retailers. The challenge is to minimize damage in display-ready boxes.

The IP Innovation

To answer this need, International Paper created our exclusive DEFOR product line, specifically for high-value produce. It incorporates the attributes of high-performance graphics and strength, for product protection. Now, we’ve strengthened our DEFOR boxes even more. An added AP (advanced protection) support beam increases container rigidity and prevents produce damage from impact with other packages. It also prevents product damage during order picking and throughout the distribution cycle. Shippers can therefore extend the storage and conditioning of their products without the concerns of package deterioration.

When the produce reaches its retail destination, the support beam is easily removed and the display-ready container can unveil undamaged ready-to-sell produce, presented in high-quality graphics packaging. DEFOR®AP is 100% wax free and totally recyclable, so retailers can also receive revenue from recycling the empty boxes.