Linpac tackles infectious bugs on packaging

6 September 2012


Multi-material packaging manufacturer Linpac Packaging is adapting its range of trays and lidding films with built-in antimicrobial technology to reduce bacteria growth on the outer packaging of fresh meat, in partnership with plastics additives supplier Addmaster.

Contamination from harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E.coli and Campylobacter – the most common cause of food poisoning in the UK - is an increasing concern through the supply chain and, says Linpac, preventing cross-contamination during preparation, processing, packing and distribution is seen as a key strategy in reducing the risk to consumers.

Products treated with Biomaster antimicrobial technology from Addmaster - the leading supplier of performance additives to industry - have been shown to reduce the growth of Campylobacter on their surface by up to 99.99%.

Biomaster is a silver-based additive that can be added into any plastic, paper, textile, paint or coating product. The antimicrobial coating is applied during manfuacture, and can be applied to any of Linpac's current trays.

Alan Davey, Linpac Packaging director of innovation, said: “While the correct handling and preparation of food by consumers at home prevents contamination, our work with Addmaster is addressing concerns raised by our customers and is helping them to reduce the chances of bacterial growth on the outer packaging of fresh meat products in the stages between farm and fork.”

Addmaster managing director Paul Morris said the aim was to create a range of packaging which is safe, effective and at minimal cost to Linpac’s customers.

“The additives are cost-effective and crucially do not affect product functionality or the food’s organoleptic properties like taste and smell,” he said.

According to figures from FSA – the UK Food Standards Agency – Campylobacter is the most common cause of bacterial food poisoning in the UK, with an estimated 371,000 cases in England and Wales in 2009, 15,000 hospital admissions, 88 deaths and an estimated cost to the economy of more than £583 million.

Poultry is a natural host for Campylobacter, forming a natural part of the chicken’s gut. While in the gut it does not cause disease, however stress can cause it to be released from the gut - during slaughter it can contaminate the meat and carcass.


Linpac Packaging Rfresh chicken trays



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