Supermarket Perimeter - September 2023 - 11

PERFECTING PACKAGING
Produce packaging trends continue to revolve around
sustainable and eco-friendly materials, such as
compostable or biodegradable packaging, as well as
innovative solutions to extend shelf life and reduce
food waste, said Dole Food Co.'s Rachel Young.
" There's a push towards more recyclable packaging
solutions to also reduce plastic waste. Single-serve and
portioned packaging options are gaining traction to
cater to on-the-go consumers and smaller households. "
In addition, she said, packaging that extends the shelf
life of produce while preserving its freshness and
nutritional value is becoming increasingly popular.
In the near future, packaging trends are set to
significantly influence the realm of produce, said
Fresh Del Monte's Melissa Mackay.
Consumers' concerns about plastic have led to
a growing disillusionment with plastic recycling,
spurring the demand for plastic-free alternatives, she
said. As a result, the number of plastic alternatives
is increasing rapidly, accommodating consumers'
aspirations for packaging solutions that align with
their values.
emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practices. And, as always,
consumers continue to be drawn to pre-cut, pre-packaged and other
convenience items, Young said. Dole is also tracking surging interest
in culinary diversity and in packaging solutions that reduce food and
package waste.
The marketing and merchandising of fresh fruits and vegetables at
retail are being shaped by several key trends, said Melissa Mackay, vice
president of marketing for Fresh Del Monte North America.
Near the top is premiumization, characterized by a heightened focus
on flavor, superior ingredients, and appealing packaging.
" This shift reflects consumers' willingness to invest in products that
offer value to their families, be it through larger sizes, personal rewards,
or trust in attributes and brands. "
OVER
70% 85%
of consumers said
they would be very
likely to purchase a
veggie snack pack.
Source: Pure Flavor
said convenience in a healthy
snacking option was important to
them. Less than half said it was easy
to find those options at retail.
Source: Pure Flavor
supermarketperimeter.com
" With a global team and our category management
team, we strive to stay attuned to changing consumer
attitudes and behaviors through proprietary research,
industry news, secondary research sources as well
as having close relationships with our retailer and
operator partners. "
SEPTEMBER 2023 - 11
Del Monte is committed to reducing plastic - one of
the company's sustainability goals is to reduce virgin
plastic across its supply chain by 25% by 2025 from a
2020 base year.
It's just one part, Mackay said, of Del Monte's longterm
strategic approach to meeting the fresh produce
needs of its customers and consumers.
" We're forging partnerships with likeminded, valuesdriven
enterprises that share a commitment to
fostering positive impacts on communities. "
By embracing partnerships and innovative product
development, she added, Fresh Del Monte is
positioning itself to address evolving consumer
demands and lead the way in delivering impactful and
relevant products to the market.
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Supermarket Perimeter - September 2023

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