Lidding film doubles ready meal shelf life

International developer and supplier of innovative lidding solutions, KM Packaging Services has launched an ultra-high performance lidding film that can reportedly double the shelf-life of premium chilled ready meals.

Aimed squarely at premium high street brands where shelf-appeal is essential, the lidding material delivers strong transparency to enhance the display of high-end, home-made effect ready meals. In addition, the film is suitable for sealing to externally lacquered aluminium foil trays and can withstand rigorous retort manufacturing processes whilst maintaining reliable seal integrity. It also provides peelability for ease of consumer preparation.

In response to a brief from a major manufacturer of chilled prepared foods, KM Packaging’s experienced technical team developed a bespoke polyester based film laminate, which not only fully achieves the required performance requirements and seal security but also allows the product to achieve 28 days’ shelf-life – twice the life of many chilled ready meals currently available.

KM Packaging’s managing director, Charles Smithson, explains, “Premium chilled ready meals are quite a challenge for both manufacturers and retailers. The product not only has to achieve technical excellence but its visual appeal must justify its premium pricing. Bought by a more discerning consumer, these meals are intended to pass as home-made or purchased as a special treat; they don’t fly off the shelves like the value ranges do.

He continues, “Creating a lidding solution that can double the standard shelf-life of premium meals will help manufacturers and retailers alike to cut down on waste – something about which KM is passionate – and ultimately increase their sales of higher margin products.”