Cirkla, Belmark, and Ossid have unveiled a new integrated packaging system combining high-performance fibre trays, resealable lidding film, and automated sealing technology. This system marks the first commercial-scale introduction of resealable lidding film to fibre trays, tackling a persistent technical hurdle.
The companies assert that this solution surpasses the challenge of bonding peel-and-reseal film to a fibre substrate without weakening the tray’s liner.
Integrated Packaging Solution
This system is tailored for applications such as fresh protein, produce, and ready-to-eat meals. It will be displayed at The Global Produce and Floral Show in Orlando, Florida, and Pack Expo in Chicago, Illinois, during October.
The companies note that resealable features have traditionally been linked to rigid plastic packaging. The technical hurdle of applying a resealable film to a fibre substrate has restricted its widespread use.
Collaboration and Technology
The partnership seeks to address this barrier by integrating the three companies’ respective technologies. Cirkla’s fibre trays are engineered to deliver performance on par with plastic in terms of shelf life, barrier properties, and durability, while cutting plastic waste by up to 90%.
Glenn Divers, vice president of sales at Cirkla, said: “Resealable fibre packaging has been one of the industry’s most sought-after innovations and it took the right partners to make it real.
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Belmark’s role focuses on its lidding film technology, which facilitates the integration of resealable functionality with Cirkla’s fibre trays at commercial scale. Jason Vandeloo, director of business development at Belmark, said: “At Belmark, we’re proud to contribute our leadership in lidding film technology to help bring solutions like this to market.
Sealing Equipment and Capabilities
Ossid supplies the sealing equipment via its ReeMaster NextGen Automatic Tray Sealer. The system is intended for medium- to large-scale production settings across produce, protein, and other food sectors.
The tray sealer utilizes servo-driven indexing conveyors and side grippers to consistently position trays during sealing. Its stainless-steel, washdown-ready open-frame design is meant to streamline cleaning and maintenance.
Andrew Birdwell, vice president of sales at Ossid, said the collaboration had addressed the challenge of combining a fibre tray with peel-and-reseal functionality. “Together with Belmark and Cirkla, we solved a long-standing challenge: pairing a fibre-based tray with a peel/reseal lidding film without damaging the tray’s liner,” he said.
Cirkla’s inaugural US manufacturing facility, situated in Gainesville, Georgia, is slated to commence operations in Q1 2027.
