Microwavable packaging for 'heat & eat' range

Tray sealing specialist Proseal has helped Asian-inspired food brand itsu diversify into the retail market.

Using the facilities of Proseal’s Test Kitchen, itsu has been able to produce user-friendly microwaveable packaging for its new ‘heat & eat’ range, which includes gyoza, bao bun and ‘hotsu’postu’ food products.

The two companies worked closely throughout the product development stage, trialling different tray concepts, materials and processes to identify the best packaging solution. The packaging needed to be in keeping with the brand and ensure complete product compatibility to maintain the quality and freshness of the products.

“We needed a pack format that created the right impression on-shelf while offering maximum convenience and ease of use for the consumer,” said Bryony Roberts, Packaging Development Manager, itsu.

The company has now commissioned tooling for the three chosen tray designs, suitable for high-speed filling on its GT1 tray sealing machine.

“Proseal provided invaluable support in developing a process that exactly met our criteria, while also being able to provide quality equipment that meets the needs of our busy production line,” Roberts concluded.