Form shrink process reduces contamination, Multivac says

A new kind of shrink process reduces the chance of food contamination and gives a closer fit of the product to the package, according to Multivac.

The packaging company, which is headquartered in Germany, claims its form shrink packaging is a completely new kind of wrap, one that is fully automatic and precise.

The process uses the company's new series of thermoforming machines and Krehalon film to make package molds. The loading of the package takes place from the top of the machine, allowing processorsto make a sealing edge that reduces contamination of the food product, Multivac stated.

By using the thermoforming technology a special strong sealing seam is made The machine eliminates overlapping film by cutting the seal to exactly fit the product. A peel tag can also be placed onthe package at this be provided.

At the last stage of the process the film is shrunk within a special tank, which is installed at the discharge end of the machine. Packages can be designed for each individual product packagedesign giving processors flexibility in their choice of colours for the top and the bottom.

Multivac claims the system is more economical by reducing wastage in comparison to the shrink bag process used by other machine makers. Themachine cuts down on contamination and produces a highly stable sealing seam in comparison to the shrink bag process.

The process can be used to shrink wrap meat, sausage, poultry, cheese and convenience products. The process uses the form shrink versions of Multivac's thermoforming machines R550, R250 and R150.

The R150 is the entry-level model suitable for packs with a length of up to 360 mm, a width of up to 380 mm and a height of up to 130 mm. The R250 is for packs with a length of up to 640 mm, awidth of up to 520 mm and a height of up to 130 mm. The R550 is for packs with a length of up to 800 mm, a width of up to 540 mm and a height of up to 180 mm.