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This reduction in packaging also means fresh produce and packaging suppliers can reduce material costs, waste and greenhouse gas emissions while meeting retailers' challenging packaging reduction targets.

The new trials were undertaken in partnership with International Food Partners (IFP), who developed the technology in conjunction with Ceetak Ltd - a UK company specialising in flexible film sealing systems. They have shown that by combining thinner film on salad bags with the new Integrity Seal hermetic sealing technology, a 25% packaging saving can be made – while at the same time potentially increasing shelf life.

The techniques also have the potential to make savings and reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with other flow-wrapped products such as confectionery and snacks.

Further material savings are also on the horizon: the Integrity Seal technology is now being trialled on seals on the backs of salad bags – saving more material and giving bags an even better seal to further extend shelf life.

WRAP project manager Andrew Parry welcomed the news. He said:
"The continuing work to develop this technology is proof that packaging optimisation can deliver packaging savings and, by enabling shelf life extension, potentially reduce food waste.

"As product, material and waste disposal costs continue to rise, this technology offers a practical step forward for suppliers using flexible film – delivering business, environmental and consumer benefits."

The news follows the previous announcement that WRAP and Marks & Spencer (M&S) were working together to trial salad bags using the Integrity Seal technology. Due to the success of those trials, M&S has now introduced the technology on their Iceberg lettuce, Italian and spinach salad products with plans to roll out to other products later in the year. The technology is now also being tested by suppliers to Asda and other major retailers.

The Integrity Seal technology relies on rapid cycles of impulse heat and chilling to close flow-wrapped bags, creating a better, stronger seal than crimping while using less material. Consumer research has also revealed that many people prefer the appearance compared to traditional crimped bags.