Paragon Print & Packaging has partnered with UK retailer Tesco to develop a new film which is designed to extend asparagus shelf life further by an extra two days.
The new film, which has been developed at Paragon Flexibles' Food Science facility, optimizes perforation technology to address loss of moisture within the packs. This will delay the onset of toughening and fibrousness typically found after four days on shelf.
While retaining the asparagus fresher for longer time, the new packaging solution enhances flavor, texture and appearance to deliver an optimal solution for asparagus packaging.
It also delivers a more hygienic solution in store compared to traditionally unpacked bundles through its physical barrier to contamination, the company said.
Tesco technical manager for produce (potatoes & seasonal vegetables) Laura Drew said, "This new pack solution enables us to maximise our quality and freshness offer to customers and gives us greater flexibility with merchandising location in store."
The new pre-printed format will be available from Tesco stores across the UK during asparagus season this year.
