Markon releases cardboard, recyclable clamshell for strawberries

To help move the produce industry away from plastic and increase recyclability, Markon Cooperative’s new cardboard, fully recyclable strawberry clamshell is now available to foodservice operators.

The innovative package, designed for its Markon First Crop (MFC) 2-pound strawberries, is made with food grade adhesives and printed with vegetable-based inks. The clamshell is 100% recyclable within operators’ existing recycling options.

“Bringing to market a more sustainable packaging option for our members and foodservice operators is an important step in our commitment to make meaningful changes to reduce our environmental impact while still inspiring culinary innovation and creativity,” said Mark Shaw, Markon’s VP of operations, through a news release. “By converting the 4/2-pound MFC Strawberry clamshells from plastic to cardboard, nearly 30 tons of plastic will be saved annually from going into landfills.”

Markon partnered with California Giant Berry Farms to create the new cardboard clamshells. The foodservice-friendly, 4/2-pound pack size is being packed in California and available in limited supply exclusively to operators through Markon’s member companies.