Celebrating 85th anniversary of CRYOVAC food packaging

Sealed Air Corporation has begun a year-long celebration for the 85th anniversary of the CRYOVAC brand food packaging, honouring the innovation, service and collaboration that has defined its food packaging legacy.

Since the trademark was filed in 1941, the brand has been a pioneer of technologies and methods that are now standard practices across meat processing channels, and retail and food service operations.

The name comes from ‘cryogenic vacuum’, which refers to the process of vacuum-sealing food before using cold air to shrink the packaging.

The company claims this process has revolutionised the way meat was packaged and paved the way for the mass availability of fresh proteins to a growing consumer base.

Historical image of the CRYOVAC packaging line.

Today, the brand includes a range of packaging solutions, from shrink bags, vacuum skin packaging and rollstock films, to equipment including rotary vacuum chamber systems and vertical form-fillseal systems.

“The legacy and future of CRYOVAC is centred on the people who make it possible — our employees, customers and partners,” said Sealed Air President and CEO Dustin Semach.

“Together, we will continue to advance food packaging solutions that combine the best of our materials, equipment and service, representing the pride of the CRYOVAC brand.”

Milestones from the past 85 years include:

• 1941 — CRYOVAC founded, pioneering vacuum packaging
• 1943 — Technology preserves food for US troops during WWII
• 1960/70s — Rotary vacuum systems for meat processing
• 1980/90s — Global expansion and automation milestones
• 2000s — Focus on efficiency, sustainability and digital innovation
• 2020s — Installation of 4000th rotary vacuum chamber system; advancement of circular packaging solutions
• 2026 and beyond — Shaping the next generation of sustainable food packaging

The 85th anniversary celebrations are set to start in Atlanta at the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) from 27–29 January.

Images: Supplied