Getting a handle on a shrink bag for turkey

Amcor has developed turkey breast packaging for US poultry manufacturer Butterball.

The Perflex shrink bag features a built-in handle that is designed to reduce packaging material and improve efficiency.

Traditional turkey packaging uses a net around the product to create a strong carrying handle. By removing the additional packaging material, Amcor has achieved a more convenient and sustainable package for the food manufacturer.

Compared to a netted turkey breast bag, the Amcor Perflex handle bag is designed to deliver*:

• 22% reduction in carbon footprint;
• 23% reduction in non-renewable primary energy demand; and
• 22% reduction in water consumption.

The handle bag also improves efficiency by eliminating the manual netting process.

The Catalyst collaborative innovation team at Amcor worked closely with Butterball on the design and development of the new package, which was made for its boneless turkey breast roast. Catalyst rapid prototyping capabilities were used to develop physical prototype iterations that were evaluated for functionality, strength and consumer preference.

“Our ability to deliver the actual production specifications in prototype quantities allowed Butterball to gain authentic consumer feedback at each stage of the design,” said Greta Shimon, Marketing Manager at Amcor.

“We were pleased that Amcor’s solution was compatible with our existing packaging equipment so we could efficiently make the change,” said Valerie Saint Sing, Senior Brand Manager for Butterball. “Consumers are constantly seeking protein options that are nutritious and easy to prepare. Our boneless turkey breast roast is the perfect solution for a delicious, convenient meal. This sleek new packaging will certainly make it stand out on the shelf.”

_{* Source: Amcor ASSET life cycle assessment, certified by the Carton Trust}