Packaging and processing innovation award winners named
The 2024 Technology Excellence Awards, recognizing the best innovations in packaging and processing being shown for the first time at a PACK EXPO event, were presented at PACK EXPO International.
The awards are produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.
More than 100 products reviewed by top industry professionals and narrowed to three finalists in each category, according to a news release. Online voting began Oct. 28 and finalists were displayed at PACK EXPO International, held Nov. 3-6 in Chicago.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of packaging and processing,” Laura Thompson, PMMI vice president of trade shows, said in the release. “The Technology Excellence Awards recognize groundbreaking advancements that are not only new to PACK EXPO but are pushing boundaries across the entire industry. This year’s winners exemplify the drive for innovation and excellence that defines our community.”
More information is available online.
The winners are:
General packaging and processing
Fogg’s PF Series Pressure Filler by Fogg Filler Co.
Fogg’s PF Pressure Filler Series is an advanced hybrid system combining contactless electronic metering with closed-loop controls for CIP/SIP cleanability, resulting in a simpler, more hygienic filling process. By using fixed stainless-steel tubes instead of flexible hoses, it reduces temperature loss in hot-fill products and minimizes moving parts for easier maintenance.
Food/beverage
Food Radar
Food Radar developed the patented Food Radar technology to detect low-density foreign bodies in food, such as plastic, rubber and wood, which traditional methods often miss. Using low-power microwaves and measuring dielectric properties, the system identifies contaminants in emulsions and pumpable products, activating a fast pneumatic rejection.
Personal care/pharma
Omni-IR by Pace Packaging
The Omni-IR™ series is an advanced linear unscrambler designed for high-speed container handling. Suitable for various plastic and fiber containers, it processes up to 650 bottles per minute across industries including personal care, beverages, automotive, and household products.
Sustainability
PPK Natura by Plastipak Packaging
Plastipak Packaging Inc. integrates innovation and circularity by producing PPK Natura, the world’s first PET resin made from captured carbon emissions, using LanzaTech’s carbon capture technology. This sustainable resin, suitable for food, personal care and pharmaceutical packaging, reduces greenhouse gas emissions without needing land or food resources. PPK Natura can be fully recycled.
