Plastic clamshell packaging for apple

Types of plastic clamshell packaging for apple

Clamshell packaging refers to a type of container or package that consists of two hinged halves that can be closed over an object. This type of packaging is widely used and found in almost every grocery store or food-related business. The rigid structure of clamshells and the fact that they can be stacked makes them a popular choice for food products, especially fresh fruits and vegetables like apples.

The clam(packaging)shells can be made of various materials such as PETE, PVC, or polypropylene; however, the most commonly used is transparent plastics such as PETE. There are several kinds of clamshell packaging that can be used for packing apples, and each offers a different protection level depending on how many apples are packed inside and how far the shipping destination is. Below are some of these types:

Two-piece clamshells

This is the most commonly used type of clamshell packaging today. It consists of two halves that are connected by a hinge and of simple design. It is mainly made from PVC or PET plastic, a type of plastic that can be recycled and is environmentally friendly, ensuring the apples are displayed attractively and protected.

Die-cut clamshells

Die-cut clamshells offer one of the simplest and least expensive packaging solutions. This type of clamshell is made from one sheet of rigid plastic that is cut and folded around the apples and sealed at the bottom and sides. This allows for a very thin and light clamshell that minimizes the amount of plastic used while still providing ample support and protection in transit. This type of shells is commonly used by smaller retailers and farmers' markets who want inexpensive packaging that is still clear and allows their apples to be seen by customers.

Stackable clamshells

This type of clamshell has features that allow it to be easily stacked on top of each other. It is primarily meant for shipping large quantities or multiple packages of apples at once. The ability to stack helps reduce the overall shipping costs as more units can be transported at the same time without increasing the size of the shipment. Stackable clamshells also have stacking features such as interlocking but these do not compromise the safety of the apples inside them.

Custom-shaped clamshells

As the name suggests, the custom-shaped clamshells are designed in specific shapes in order to appeal to certain target audiences or certain varieties of apples. This makes apple clamshell packaging more memorable as a marketing tool or when used for gifts.

Design of plastic clamshell packaging for apple

Clamshell packaging is a rigid packaging system that consists of two halves that are typically merged as one piece. The two halves are usually hinged together on one end and locked or sealed on the opposite end, forming a shell that can easily be opened and closed.

Clamshells are manufactured using a wide range of materials, designs, and sealing techniques to accommodate and protect food products such as apples. Common materials used include:

• PET: With its excellent clarity and strength, PET is one of the most popular packaging materials for clamshells. It is also safe to use around food and can be recycled many times, making it a favorite among manufacturers and consumers.
• PVC: PVC is commonly used to manufacture clear clamshell containers because of its rigid properties and ease of forming. Despite being clear and rigid, PVC cannot be recycled as many times as PET because it is less environmentally friendly.
• Polypropylene: Polypropylene is the material of choice for making heat-sealable clamshells that can be used to package cut or ready-to-eat apples and other perishables. It is also commonly used to manufacture shrink wrap and can be molded into containers with snap closures.

The design of apple clamshells is not only meant for protection but also meant to be attractive and boost sales. Someways this is achieved is by the incorporation of:

• Die-cut windows: Instead of the entire clamshell being transparent like in custom die-cut clamshells, only parts of the outer shell have cut-outs or thin plastic windows that display the apples inside. This saves plastic while still allowing customers to see the fresh fruit.
• Text and graphics: Once again, instead of printing directly on the container, custom shaped clamshells have graphics, text, or logos printed on the outer shell. This gives a larger printing surface area and provides more real estate for branding information.
• Color: The color of the apple clamshell packaging plays a huge role in apple merchandising. Bright, vibrant clamshells attract the attention of consumers, while more subdued, elegant colors appeal to higher-end clientele.

Specification & Maintenance of plastic clamshell packaging for apple

Specification

Apple clamshell packaging comes in a variety of sizes and configurations depending on the type of apples being packed and marketing preferences, and practical considerations such as stacking and storage. Common specifications include:

• Size:

  Common sizes for apple clamshells range from single fruit containers to multi-fruit packs of 1 pound or more. Popular volume sizes include 8-ounce, 1-pound, and 2-pound capacity shells.

• Closure mechanisms:

  Snap-fit closures are clamshells that have ridged or toothed edges that fit together firmly to hold the lid on securely without the need for adhesive or fasteners. Locking tabs are similar to snap closures but involve small tabs that must be pressed inward or downward to release the lid.

• Perforation:

  Internal perforations are helpful when appling custom packaging for apples that must be sold ready-to-eat or sliced. The perforated dividers or pads help keep each apple separated to prevent bruising. The perforations also allow customers to easily tear out dividers when not needed.

• Coatings:

  Clamshells may have special coatings such as anti-fog to prevent condensation on the interior surfaces and obscuring the view of the apples. Other options are UV inhibiting coatings that block harmful rays and prolong apple shelf life by slowing ripening.

Maintenance

Apple clamshell containers are usually maintenance-free as they do not require washing or care to be reused. However, maintenance considerations apply to:

• Recyclability and disposal: The maintenance of apple clamshells has a lot to do with ecology. Consumers are encouraged to dispose of clamshells responsibly by recycling them, which is often facilitated by recycling programs that accept them. Some programs may require rinsing or cleaning plastic containers, including removing labels.
• Hygiene: While clamshells are typically single-use, those repurposed must be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water, other sanitizing solutions, or run through a dishwasher to remove all food residues before reusing them safely.

Scenarios of plastic clamshell packaging for apple

Clamshell packaging is ideal for many retail and commercial applications where a strong, protective container is required for the storage and transportation of apples.

Retail environments

Bright, appealing apple clamshells attract shoppers to display racks by showcasing the fruit. Built-in visibility helps retail managers select appropriate varieties.

Wholesale distributors

Wholesale distributors benefit from packable features such as multiple apple storage capacity sizes ranging from 8 ounces to several pounds. Easily stackable bulk clamshells simplify transportation logistics.

Online grocery delivery

The protective nature of clamshells makes apples ideal for shipping through mail order and delivery services that require packing to withstand handling and environmental conditions.

Farmers markets

Customized apple clamshells are used by many farm market vendors to package freshly picked apples directly from local orchards. This provides a distinctive branding display.

Promotional gifts

Branded or special occasion clamshells serve as unique packaging for gift baskets, events, or holidays that want to highlight wholesome, healthy snack options like apples.

Food service industry

Maintaining quality standards is essential for restaurants offering sliced or prepared apples as menu items. Clamshell storage prevents contamination and preserves freshness for longer storage before serving.

How to Choose plastic clamshell packaging for apple

There are a number of things that should be considered when choosing the appropriate clamshell packaging for apples.

• Material: The most commonly used material for apple clamshells is PET, which is very durable and impact resistant. Other materials are PVC and PP, which have similar properties but are not as recyclable.
• Size: The size of the clamshell should be appropriate to the amount of apples being packed in it. The clamshell should not be too big or small, as there should be enough room for the apples to be stacked without being too precariously stacked, and the apples should not be squished.
• Closure mechanism: The kind of closure can be snap-fit, lock tabs, or hinge style. This is another consideration when producing the fruits inside are more perishable, the closure should be a firm clamshell that will keep the apples inside fresh for a long time. For the apples that need to be more easily accessible and do not require a longer shelf life, the cheaper options like flip top are suitable.
• Custom branding: Choosing a clamshell that can be custom printed will allow the retailer to brand the packaging with the business name so that it can be differentiated from other apple providers.
• Environmental considerations: Brands are increasingly offering clamshells made from post-consumer recycled materials or that are themselves recyclable due to the growing concern about environmental pollution from plastic packaging.
• Cost: Generally, thinner and simpler clamshells will be cheaper, and they are mostly suited for apples that are being packed for sale within a short distance or lesser quality. More expensive, thicker, intricately designed clamshells will be better suited for transporting delicate apples over long distances or for premium products.

Q&A

Q1: Are plastic clamshell containers safe for food?

A1: Yes, they are manufactured using FDA-approved plastics such as PVC, PET, and polycarbonate that are considered safe for food contact.

Q2: How are plastic clamshell containers sealed?

A2: Clamshells can be sealed using heat sealing, adhesive application, ultrasonic sealing, or through mechanical closures such as lock tabs that require no special sealing.

Q2: Can apples be packed in any type of clamshell container?

A3: Apples can be packed in any clamshells that have been specially designed for them, which provide protection and a longer shelf life through ventilation and cushioning.

Q4: What varieties of apples are available in clamshells?

A4: There are more than a hundred varieties of apples packed in clamshell containers, and some of the most popular ones include red delicious, honey crisp, and Fuji apples.

Q5: Are clamshell containers environmentally friendly?

A5: Some clamshells manufacture from bioplastics or post-consumer recycled plastic are eco-friendly. Consumers are also encouraged to recycle clamshells where possible.