Sudpack’s specialised packaging addresses seafood perishability

German film specialist Südpack has launched a suite of high-performance packaging technologies specifically engineered for the seafood sector, where delicate textures, irregular shapes, and extreme perishability present logistical challenges.

In the seafood industry, packaging is increasingly viewed as a critical lever for profitability. Given the high value of products like salmon fillets, tuna, and shellfish, even minor packaging failures can lead to significant loss rates. Südpack’s new solutions, SKINPro and Multifol Extreme, aim to reduce food waste and enhance supply chain efficiency by combining puncture resistance with advanced barrier functions.

The primary challenge in vacuum skin packaging (VSP) for seafood — particularly for whole fish or sharp-edged shrimp skewers — is maintaining a hermetic seal over extreme undercuts and high protrusions.

The SKINPro system uses a thin, high-performance top web that wraps around the product like a second skin. This tight fit prevents “juicing” — the migration of fluids within the pack — which is a leading cause of bacterial growth and reduced shelf life.

By removing oxygen and providing a secure seal even in contaminated seal areas, the system allows for vertical or hanging retail presentations without compromising safety. For manufacturers focused on sustainability, Südpack offers matching PE-, PP-, and APET-based bottom webs, including mono-material structures designed for easier recyclability.

For high-volume MAP (modified atmosphere packaging) or vacuum applications, Südpack has introduced Multifol Extreme. This flexible film family is designed for fatty, protein-rich, or frozen goods that typically require heavy-gauge materials.

The technical breakthrough of Multifol Extreme lies in its “downgauging” capability. The film is approximately 30% lighter than conventional PA/PE structures. In a direct comparison, a 150 µm Multifol Extreme film can replace a standard 200 µm thermoforming film without sacrificing puncture resistance or seal integrity. This reduction in material weight delivers immediate benefits across the logistics chain, reducing carbon footprints and material costs while maintaining the deep-draw properties required for complex thermoforming machines.

Beyond the technical specs, the new ranges are designed to enhance consumer appeal. The SKINPro top web features enhanced transparency and high gloss to provide a “fresher” appearance at the point of sale.

“Packaging fresh seafood is anything but routine,” the company noted. “Delicate surfaces and sharp edges need to be managed along with stringent hygiene requirements. These solutions provide the lever for economic profitability by reducing waste and ensuring a premium look and feel.”