Paranova Print and Packaging has introduced FibreFresh paper-based punnets for Flavourfresh’s limited-edition Tomalina tomato range, launched in Asda stores for the UK summer season.
The new format has been developed as an alternative to conventional all-plastic fresh produce packs, combining a paper-based tray with heat-sealing capability for retail tomato applications. According to Paranova, the recyclable FibreFresh punnet is designed to support freshness by managing respiration and transpiration, while also offering improved branding space and shelf impact for premium produce ranges.
The launch follows Paranova’s £500,000 investment in Boix punnet-forming technology and marks the company’s move into heat-sealed paper-based punnet packaging. Paranova said the investment builds on its existing position in nested trays and supports wider demand from growers and retailers for lower-plastic fresh produce formats that can be integrated into existing packing operations.
Paranova supported Flavourfresh across the development process, covering creative design, packaging development, testing, print and retail launch. The company said the format has been engineered for machinability and compatibility with current packing lines, helping reduce disruption when switching from plastic-based formats.
Michael Conway, Chief Commercial Officer at Paranova, said the project showed how paper-based punnets can reduce plastic use while supporting shelf differentiation, operational efficiency and sustainability targets.
Paranova also confirmed plans to launch FastFlex, a tray and lidding system for fresh produce and convenience applications. The system is expected to offer lidding lead times of under seven days, compared with traditional two-to-four-week print cycles. It will be produced on a newly commissioned press designed for filmic paper-based tray applications, with reduced origination costs and no minimum order quantity requirements for UK fresh produce supply chains and retailers alike across seasonal and promotional retail programmes locally.