Fibre for foodservice sets an example for multiple retailers

The launch of a Kraft board salad tray for Pret A Manger, and the promise of new fibre-based packaging in the spring with even broader applications, demonstrates how foodservice is setting the agenda for major retailers, says the designer.

The compostable tray uses a biodegradable polylactide (PLA) window in the top of the lid, and joins the range of foodservice packs from Rapid Action Packaging (RAP) which avoid oil-based plastics. Designer and md Julian Money says: "Pret A Manger is one of the most responsible companies on the high street, and wherever they lead, the multiples follow."

Money was behind the carton sandwich wedge introduced by Pret in the 1990s and, since then, widely imitated by a number of other companies.

At the IFE show which takes place at London Excel (March 18-21), RAP plans to launch another unspecified combination PLA/board pack which will be relevant not only to various foodservice products including sandwiches, but also to ready meals, says Money.

One major challenge for designers has been that, if board is coated with polymers such as polyethylene (PE) to combat moisture and provide shelf-life, the resulting pack is not compostable.