Berry Plastics recently announced it has received two Silver Awards from the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) for its Gourmet Express Complete Meal packages. Berry Plastics received the awards in the Sustainability and in the Printing and Shelf Impact categories.

“This frozen meal pouch is an example of Berry Plastics’ improved extrusion technologies and enhanced converting processes, which result in several environmental and sustainability benefits,” said Michelle Wilson, vice president of Product Development in the Flexible Packaging division. “We are honored to receive these Silver Awards, as they underscore our belief that this innovative new packaging solution represents a win-win for both our customers and the end consumers.”

By changing the printing technologies from rotogravure to flexographic print, Berry Plastics reportedly significantly lowered its greenhouse gas emissions, due to the process, and reduction of ovens, heat, and ink consumption. In addition, the lamination was converted from a solvent-based to a solventless adhesive. This enhanced laminate film still provides the stiffness and strength that retailers and consumers expect.

“The target was to replace an existing pouch with one that used less material and utilized more environmentally friendly processes in printing and laminating,” said Dan Collins, Technical director in the Flexible Packaging division. “We were able to achieve these results with a pouch that delivers all of the shelf presence that retailers expect with high-quality pouches.”

For more information, visit www.berryplastics.com.