Sonoco Introduces the UltraFreshSystem™ for Fresh-Cut Produce

HARTSVILLE, S.C., June 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonoco (NYSE: SON), one of the largest diversified global packaging companies; Paper Pak Industries, a leading manufacturer of absorbent mediums for the food industry; and Bunzl Distribution, a global packaging and supplies distribution company, are pleased to introduce the UltraFreshSystem for packaging fresh-cut produce.

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The UltraFreshSystem features a custom-designed, thermoformed Sonoco tray combined with an UltraZapXtendaPak food safety pad from Paper Pak Industries. The tray includes an insert to channel liquid away from the product while the food safety pad absorbs excess moisture inside the package and emits a steady stream of carbon dioxide, reducing the growth of microorganisms such as yeast and mold. Together, the tray and absorbent pad maintain the appearance of the fresh-cut product and extend shelf life by slowing the produce's respiration rate. The result is a fresher, firmer product through the use-by date.

"The UltraFreshSystem is a cost-effective package that delivers superior merchandising appeal and extended shelf life," said Rodger Fuller, vice president of Global Rigid Plastics at Sonoco. "Produce processors can also count on less shrink, better margins and reduced packaging costs."

The unique design of the tray lowers stacking height, increasing shipping density and reducing costs for shipping and storage. The tray's composite surface also results in a better, faster seal at lower temperatures compared to other trays in the marketplace, which minimizes the risk of cross contamination and operator liability. And because it is made with less plastic, the custom-designed tray creates less waste and a smaller carbon footprint.

To learn more about the UltraFreshSystem, please contact Carlyn McClintock with Bunzl Distribution at 314-997-5959 x10220 or via email at [email protected].

About Bunzl Distribution
Bunzl Distribution (www.bunzldistribution.com), based in St. Louis, Mo., is the largest division of London-based Bunzl plc, an international distribution and outsourcing Group. With more than 70 distribution centers throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, Bunzl supplies a range of products, including outsourced food packaging, disposable supplies, and cleaning and safety products to food processors, supermarkets, retailers, convenience stores and other users. Bunzl Distribution is the exclusive distributor of the UltraFreshSystem™.

About Paper Pak Industries
Founded in 1960, Paper Pak Industries is the largest manufacturer in North America dedicated solely to the manufacturing of absorbent mediums for the food and medical industries. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities on both coasts of the United States, PPI offers a wide variety of standard absorbent food pads as well as custom-designed products to meet specific absorbent needs. For more information, please visit www.paperpakindustries.com.

About Sonoco
Founded in 1899, Sonoco is a global provider of a variety of consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging and packaging supply chain services. With annualized net sales of approximately $4.5 billion, the Company has more than 19,600 employees working in more than 340 operations in 34 countries, serving some of the world's best known brands in some 85 nations. Sonoco is a proud member of the 2011/2012 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index. For more information on the Company, visit our website at www.sonoco.com.

SOURCE Sonoco