Leading consumer packaging firm Huhtamaki is launching a new line of packaging to meet the ever-growing demand for ready-made snacks. The Eat-in-it concept, as it is called, features five containers, a heat sealing machine, lidding film and four different lids to cater for all kinds of meals.
The consumption of convenience food has risen dramatically in recent years. Lifestyle changes, economic development and technological innovations have led to more and more people snacking quickly rather than sitting down to a lengthy meal.
"Eating without cooking is a trend that will continue to grow with consumers demanding more value in the meals they purchase," said Arja Vanhanen, marketing and development manager of Huhtamaki's fresh foods Europe division.
The Eat-in-it range is targeted to retailers selling over-the-counter meals and snacks.
"It is also an excellent concept for packers, caterers and restaurants snacks and other ready to eat foods to be consumed in-home, out-of-home or on-the-go," claimed Vanhanen.
The heat sealing machine contains three integrated container holders with three mouth shapes that can be swiftly and flexibly switched by simply rotating the tool. The lightweight top of the heat sealer can be used with one hand.
The container range includes five different sizes: 400ml, 750ml, 900ml, 1750ml and 2,000ml. Clear polypropylene containers and lids have been designed to enhance food presentation, and the lid range includes small, square, flat and dome-shaped to suit various needs.
Containers can be closed with an easy peeling lidding film, which is also microwave safe. The Finland-based company claims that a precision-engineered fit with the heat sealing machine ensures containers have 100 per cent leak-proof sealing.
The shape of the container has been designed so that it can be used as a plate. Snacks can therefore be consumed directly from the same container it was purchased in.