The better-mousetrap principle applies to the new snap-tray container from Sealed Air’s Cryovac division. Designed to run on standard tray-lidding equipment, the Deli-Snap package eliminates the need to wrap luncheon meats or cheese in film before inserting the product in a tray with lidstock that delivers a hermetic seal.

The package debuted at Sam’s Club for the Castle Wood Reserve line of shaved deli meats and sliced cheese. The lid provides an even surface for labeling, and the package can lay flat, stand up or be placed on a peg, according to Product Manager Jeff Womak.

The tray follows by seven years Sara Lee Corp.’s introduction of Hillshire Farm Lunchmeats in a Glad-Ware container from Clorox Co. Sara Lee sought to overcome the product compression that occurs with vacuum packaging and the flavor disadvantage packaged lunchmeats had compared to nearby deli meats in supermarkets. Slicing meats half their previous thickness addressed the taste issue, and a gas flush and oxygen absorber positioned under the lid helped push shelf life to 65 days.

Cryovac’s tray delivers 45-day shelf life when carbon dioxide is added to a low-oxygen atmosphere. But the cost savings of two-step packaging and retail display flexibility are advantages over the Sara Lee approach, Womak points out. 

For more information:

Jeff Womak, Cryovac division, Sealed Air Corp., 864-879-3861, jeff.womak@sealedair.com