October 21, 2024

Innovation lab aims to accelerate new packaging, labeling developments

The International Fresh Produce Association’s Foundation for Fresh Produce and partner Clemson University will each receive $5 million in federal funding to establish a Sustainable Packaging Innovation Lab.

The funding is part of a $25 million USDA Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative, according to a news release.

The foundation will also partner with the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) and the University of Florida to implement the program.

The lab will focus on projects and research to accelerate the development of new packaging and labeling options.

“The packaging and labeling requirements for export markets are changing at a rapid pace,” Max Teplitski, IFPA chief science officer, said in a news release. “This investment from the USDA will turbocharge the development and scale-up of innovative packaging compliant with emerging global packaging regulations.

“Our partnership with FFAR, University of Florida and Clemson University is exactly what the industry – and frankly the consumers as well – need to continue to remove barriers to trade and access to fresh fruits, vegetables, berries and nuts.”

The project builds on three years of IFPA’s Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator program, which works to scale up industry innovation.

Several new packaging and labeling regulations have been introduced in major markets including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and the EU.

The lab will research and explore packaging options to help the specialty crop industry continue to supply international markets while lessening reliance on single-use plastics, according to the release.

“Sustainable packaging is critical not just for reducing environmental impact but also for maintaining the quality and safety of our food,” Constance Gewa, FFAR scientific program director, said. “The Sustainable Innovation Packaging Lab will accelerate the development of innovative packaging solutions that support international trade while addressing the urgent need to minimize plastic use and reduce food waste.

“By supporting research and innovation in packaging, we are helping to create practical solutions that will reduce waste, preserve food quality and strengthen the global competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops.”





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