Tues 18th Nov, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London

EFSA CALLS FOR CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS OCCURRENCE DATA

Posted on by Georgia Oxspring

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have once again issued their annual call for occurrence data regarding chemical contaminants in food and feed.  

EFSA provides scientific advice and carries out risk assessments on a wide range of chemicals that can be present in food and feed due to food production, distribution, packaging, as well as those that might be present in the environment naturally or as a result of man-made activity. This work is carried out by EFSA’s Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain. The Authority also collects occurrence data on contaminants in food and feed and supports the coordination of data collection and monitoring by Member States. 

National food authorities, research institutions, academia, food business operators and other stakeholders are invited to submit data on chemical contaminants listed although it is stressed that the list is not exhaustive. A priority list of those most of interest to EFSA along with deadlines for data submission are also provided. 

More detail can be found here 

BRUSCO FOOD GROUP LAUNCH SALE ON COCONUT CREAM STOCK

Posted on by Jack Barnett

Brusco Food Group has launched a sale on its Coconut Cream stock, with special offers available for one month only.

The 24% Fat, UHT coconut cream is perfect for manufacturers and suppliers that are searching for a new flavoursome ingredient for product development. Whether it’s for ready meals, sweet desserts, or Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, Brusco is offering a versatile ingredient which can bring any dish to life at an affordable price.

The supply is available in 20L/ 20Kg BIB with a BBE of October 2024.

For more information, visit Brusco’s website www.brusco.co.uk

Alternatively, contact the team by emailing info@brusco.co.uk or phone 01386 761555

SPREAD THE MESSAGE IN FOOD WASTE ACTION WEEK – BUY MORE FROZEN!

Posted on by Georgia Oxspring

This week sees the launch of Food Waste Action week, WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste’s flagship annual campaign bringing businesses, government organisations and global partners together to support citizens to develop the tools they need to cut food waste in their homes.

4.7 million tonnes of edible food is thrown away each year by UK households. Shockingly, 25% of this wasted food is as a result of people cooking, preparing or serving too much – this costs UK households £4.9 billion each year.

As we all know, swapping fresh foods for frozen options is a prime tactic that can help to save waste, and money. Whether it be meat, fish, poultry, herbs, fruit and vegetables or so on, the advantages are clear. The quality and freshness is often as good (if not better) than chilled, you have more control over portion sizes and the shelf life is significantly longer.

So why not take the opportunity this week to help to spread the ‘buy frozen message’ across your own networks!

Food Waste Action Week runs from 18-24th March 2024 and more information can be found here

BFFF HEALTH & SAFETY GROUP MEET AT BIDFOOD BIRMINGHAM DEPOT

Posted on by Georgia Oxspring

Thanks to Bidfood UK – Clare Flanagan, Simon Stretch & Dennis Keegan for hosting the British Frozen Food Federation members Health & Safety Group meeting today. Bidfood UK were the perfect hosts which included a tour of their Birmingham facility. The British Frozen Food Federation Health & Safety Group meets 3 times per year to discuss industry topics which today included Asbestos, Workplace Transport, EV Charging Points, Drugs & Alcohol, Composite Insulated Panels, PPM, Cold Store Workers, Stress, Slips/Falls from Vehicle Tail-lifts and Aggression & Violence. We achieved record number of attendees today all sharing best practice. For me this was OSH collaboration at its best! Thanks to the support of all attendees – Fiona Gordon-Smith; Unilever Jemma Wiles; ABP Rupert Ashby; BFFF Dennis Keegan Bidfood Millicent Holdsworth: Holdsworth Foods Clare Flanagan, Bidfood Scott Irwin, Greggs Michael Cox; Sysco Paul Duncalf, Sysco Leanne Broome CertIOSH AIEMA Dalziel Rosannah Hines’ Dalziel Kerry Broadhead, StoreLogs Chris Humphries, Iceland Ovidijus Barkauskas, Cook Mark Lovett apetito . For more information on the work of the federation contact British Frozen Food Federation

LOVE LOCAL: 7 TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A PACKAGING SUPPLIER NEAR YOU

Posted on by Richard Davies

Whether you’re the new kid on the block or a household name, never underestimate the importance of the right packaging. From protecting fragile items to shipping anything from clothing to pet food to drinks, packaging is key to getting your products from your warehouse to consumers. Without the right packaging, there’s always the chance that your products won’t arrive in perfect condition, and this can greatly impact your customers’ overall experience and repeat purchasing behaviour. A whopping 77% of consumers would recommend a brand to a friend after just one single positive experience (Temkin Group, cited in Forbes), so it’s all about finding the right fit for you, your products and choosing a packaging supplier near you that you know can deliver on your individual packaging needs.

So, we can see packaging is important but who do you turn to for help? With lots of companies on the web offering packaging solutions, why should you look close to home? We’ve put together seven key questions you should ask about your packaging supplier to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

 

1. Can they tailor to my brand?

In business, having a strong brand is a big deal, so be sure to explore the various bespoke options from different packaging suppliers. They might vary, but many suppliers offer a range of solutions that can encapsulate any brand, product, or target market. Take a bit of time to find a supplier that can create packaging to fit your individual needs and style.

Getting your packaging tailormade is like giving your brand its own signature. Match the colours, style, and message of your business to create a brand image that sticks. This personal touch lets you tell your brand story, boosts product recognition, and forms a tight bond with your target audience. Whether you’re grabbing eyeballs on screens or standing out on the shelves, find a supplier that literally thinks outside the box!

Bespoke packaging goes beyond just looking good – it creates a positive and unforgettable experience for customers, boosting their loyalty and bringing them back for more. During the purchasing process, consumers attach considerable importance to both the packaging itself and the unboxing experience. A notable 49.6% of UK shoppers

recognise the significance of these elements in influencing their buying decisions (Internet Retailing). So don’t underestimate the power of your packaging; it’s your chance to show customers that you really care about what you’re doing and why you’re the brand they want.

 

2. Can they back up their claims?

According to Mintel, sustainability is no longer considered a selling point, but an essential element of survival, driving brands to continuously innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible – and what’s necessary. When looking for a local packaging supplier, choose one that gives complete traceability all through the manufacturing process, so you can be sure of their green credentials.

With 75% of consumers more likely to purchase brands that offer planet friendly products, and 49% stating they would pay more for sustainable packaging and delivery (Deloitte Global), knowing a supplier’s sustainability information means you can leverage it and promote your environmental practices to an ever-growing eco-conscious market.

Consumers expect high-quality packaging and 61% of them believe they should no longer have to think about sustainability while shopping, with 94% saying “it’s a brand’s responsibility to create products that are not harmful to the Earth” (Deloitte Global). At Saxon Packaging (part of the Smurfit Kappa Group), we agree and we’re here to help our local businesses in the East Anglia, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex areas better support consumers, to benefit business growth and the environment as a whole.

It’s about giving your customers what they really want and doing the right thing for the next generation who don’t want to see today’s waste lingering in landfills in the future. Show your customers that you care about your business’s impact on the planet, and they’ll thank you for it by returning again and again and spreading the word about your brand in their social circles.

 

3. Will they leave me waiting?

Delays and disruptions can be a big headache for a business, especially when making sure your customers get what they ordered when they expect it. Considering that 1 in 3 consumers part ways with a beloved brand after just one disappointing experience (PWC), when choosing a packaging supplier near you, be sure to choose one who understands your product’s process and journey and who actively works on avoiding potential supply chain challenges. This will help you to consistently meet deadlines for a seamless operation that’s free from disruption, giving your customers what they want, when they want it.

 

4. Do they dot the i’s and cross the t’s?

Finding a packaging supplier that not only complies with industry standards but also ignites excitement for quality assurance is crucial. The impact of your packaging supplier on operational efficiency, especially in the fulfilment process, cannot be overstated.

Quality assurance becomes the driving force behind ensuring your packaging meets the highest standards for optimal use. Imagine the ripple effect – a lack of control measures could disrupt the harmonious flow, jeopardising OTIF (on time in full) delivery and the overall dependability of your packaging solutions.

Sticking to packaging standards shows a local supplier’s unwavering dedication to providing solutions that are not just good but outstanding. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and awe-inspiring success stories – to give you an insight into the quality of the products they produce. You may even stumble across other local businesses who are already using that packaging supplier!

 

5. Will I get a return on my investment?

Find the right supplier and they’ll add value to your business in ways that go beyond the packaging itself. From making your supply chain work smarter not harder, reducing waste, cutting the cost of returns that result from damaged products and much more, it’s about the value your supplier adds and the words of wisdom they’re willing to share to support your business growth.

For example, is the packaging the right size, is there wastage and do your products suffer breakages in transit? Consider if the supplier works with you to reduce labour

costs by designing packaging that’s quicker to assemble. By weighing all these factors, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision that goes beyond cost. A great example is Hattingley Valley’s quick assembly packaging solution that saved space, lowered costs and reduced waste which you can read more about here.

 

6. Will they be on hand when I need help?

Despite all your best efforts, sometimes there’s no knowing when a problem will crop up in business, and, though packaging problems are unlikely, it’s good to know that support is there should you need it, when you need it. It’s important to have good communication with your local packaging supplier; you need to know that someone is there to address your concerns promptly and that someone will get back to you quickly if you have any questions.

The right packaging partner will keep you updated on the latest trends and insights – you can read ours here – and communicate with you regularly to help you stay ahead of competitors. You should be able to hand your packaging requirements over to a local supplier, knowing that your needs are in capable hands and that they’re only on the other end of the phone or email should you need help. Plus, if they’re just down the road from you, then you could call in and chat through your challenges face-to-face over a cuppa.

 

7. Should I go with my gut?

Whilst the product might tick all the right boxes, ensuring your chosen packaging supplier aligns with your core business values, culture and future trajectories are essential to ensuring a blossoming partnership. Choosing a local packaging supplier isn’t a short-term endeavour but the start of a new chapter for your business, so you have to feel comfortable, looked after and supported. You should feel like part of a team, all working towards the same goal for your business and customers.

In a nutshell

We hope this has helped in your journey of choosing your ideal packaging supplier, and you can see it definitely involves more than a quick Google search. Perhaps you have chosen a packaging supplier near you already but are realising it may be time to switch as you recognise some things no longer align, or it is your first time choosing a supplier and you can’t afford to get it wrong. After all, the incorrect packaging supplier really can have a detrimental effect on your business success and bottom line.

At Saxon Packaging we have full confidence in being the packaging partner of choice and have many customers who we have supported in their growth journey. If you’re searching for a new packaging supplier local to you, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we could work together. And, as we’re part of the Smurfit Kappa Group,

it means as a business we are local to Glasgow, Leeds, London, Devon, and all across the UK. Whether you’ve got your packaging plans all taped up or are still figuring out the best way to bundle your needs, our passionate team is ready to help you start the next chapter of your packaging journey!

BIRDS EYE LAUNCHES MINI FISH FINGERS TO TAP INTO NEW MEALTIME OCCASIONS

Posted on by Pete.Johnson@birdseye.co.uk

Birds Eye is extending its core range of fish products with the launch of NEW Mini Fish Fingers*.  Available from March, the launch taps into the rise in demand for frozen food across a broader range of occasions and brings an opportunity for retailers to unlock incremental sales through the innovation.

Fish fingers are a weekly staple for over half of UK shoppers.[1] Over a quarter of all frozen food meal occasions include fish fingers[2] and they are leading the growth of the total frozen fish category, with strong value growth of +6.8% vs YA[3]. There has been a significant increase in the use of frozen foods in the lunch and snacking occasions since pre-lockdown (+17% and +26% respectively vs 2019) [4], and as the UK’s most loved fish finger brand, Birds Eye is perfectly placed to tap into this opportunity and help drive incremental sales through this launch.

Mike Sowerby, Head of Marketing Fish & Poultry at Birds Eye UK & Ireland commented, “Our classic Fish Fingers have been a staple at the dinner table for generations and are particularly popular at kids’ mealtimes. With the growing use of frozen foods during lunch and snacking, our new Mini Fish Fingers will tap into this demand to provide a tasty, nutritious, and fun mealtime solution for kids while also offering an innovative option for adult sharing plates and party occasions.”

Sowerby continues, “The launch of our Chunky Fish Fingers in 2018 demonstrated that there is appetite to expand our fish fingers portfolio, delivering +37% of incremental sales value to the fish fingers category[5]. Our new Mini Fish Fingers offer retailers a similar opportunity to unlock even more sales.”

To drive excitement of the launch and engage with the target audience, Birds Eye will be partnering with well-loved brand Playmobil. The partnership will include an on-pack promotion that will gift a special -edition bespoke Captain Birds Eye Playmobil character with the purchase of two packs of Birds Eye Mini Fish Fingers**. The promotion will be available from the 1st April -30th June and will be supported by an in-store shopper activation campaign across multiple retailers, in addition to a £2.6M media campaign from mid-April, which will include a TVC, PR, social and OOH advertising.

The Mini Fish Fingers will be hitting grocery shelves from early March, with an MRSP of £3.50***. They are 100% MSC-certified, made from 100% white fish fillet, and suitable for air frying or oven cooking.

Birds Eye Mini Fish Fingers are MSC Certified. At Birds Eye, 100% of our fish portfolio is MSC or ASC certified and we fish responsibly, while helping to preserve marine resources and natural habitats, so that future generations can enjoy fish too. We are proud to work with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) to ensure that the actions we are taking now help protect fish stocks and the world’s oceans and waterways for the future.

[1] Total Fish fingers category penetration 52.8%, 52w/e up to 21.01.2024 Kantar World Panel

[1] Kantar Usage 52 w/e 01 Oct 2023

[1] Nielsen, Total Coverage, 52w/e up to 30.12.2023

[1] Kantar, Usage Panel, Ingredients by meal occasions, Growth in servings, 52 w/e 26th Nov vs Nov  2019​

[1] Kantar Worldpanel | Total Frozen Fish | 52 w/e 11th Aug 2019 vs LY

6 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PLANET FRIENDLY COATED PACKAGING

Posted on by Richard Davies

Coated packaging refers to packaging that has an enhanced resistance to water and other environmental factors. The process involves applying a protective water-resistant coating to the surface of paper-based packaging materials, forming a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating and compromising the contents within. The primary advantage of using coated packaging lies in its ability to safeguard goods from water damage, ensuring product integrity during transportation, storage, and display.

Essential for moisture-sensitive items such as Fresh Produce, flowers, meat and poultry, coated packaging helps maintain the quality and appearance of the enclosed items. As a result, businesses and consumers alike benefit from the reliability and durability offered by coated packaging, making it a practical choice for a wide range of industries.

In this blog, we’re sharing six of the most important benefits of using environmentally friendly coated packaging. Delve deeper and discover a world where your goods not only survive but thrive throughout the supply chain.

 

1. Recyclability

The term ‘coated packaging’ may initially bring your thoughts to packaging solutions with moisture barriers made from plastic – but just like everything else, there is a recyclable and significantly more planet friendly alternative. Using a specially crafted water-resistant coating which is available to use on a wide range of packaging solutions such as shipping boxes, eliminates the need for any plastic components, meaning that the packaging remains 100% recyclable. This is significant as 65% of respondents in a recent report stated that knowing that packaging is recyclable is important (Drapers), therefore, brands need to be exploring cutting-edge ways to enhance their packaging whilst still upholding green practices that align with consumer attitudes.

Utilising sustainable coated packaging means you will be doing your bit for the environment, avoiding Plastic Tax, and still be benefitting from the practical advantages of a water-resistant coating, ensuring the freshness and quality of perishable goods are always upheld. The 100% recyclable solution now better aligns with you, and your customers’ environmental goals and ethics and can be easily

recycled at kerbside. Take a look at how Brownings Ltd eradicated 29.5 tonnes of single-use plastic from their business by turning to a coated solution here.

 

2. Circular economy

Switching to eco-friendly coated packaging is a positive step towards reducing your carbon footprint and minimising waste in the supply chain – directly contributing to a circular economy.

Water-resistant coated packaging that is free from plastic plays a pivotal role in the circular economy by promoting practices that make the most of every bit of material and minimise waste. It is easily recycled, reducing the demand for virgin materials, and supporting a closed-loop system where materials are reused and repurposed, ultimately reducing environmental impact.

Plastic-free coatings and paper-based packaging solutions are designed to be 100% recyclable and are constructed from reusable materials. Recent studies indicate that an impressive 78% of consumers believe businesses should be more environmentally conscious (National Retail Federation). With 75% of consumers willing to part ways with a brand if they felt a conflict in values (Consumer Goods Technology), coated packaging made with the environment in mind helps to bridge the gap between businesses and the growing number of consumers seeking brands who implement green practices.

 

3. Reduced environmental impact

In a time characterised by worldwide issues like climate change, dwindling resources, and societal disparities, businesses are progressively acknowledging the significance of sustainability as a foundational principle for long-term success. This is especially pertinent as 75% of consumers are more likely to purchase from brands that offer green or sustainable products, and 49% say they would pay more for sustainable packaging and delivery (Deloitte Global). Beyond its moral necessity, environmental consciousness is now a powerful catalyst for growth, encouraging innovation, building resilience, and improving financial outcomes. This shift towards planet friendly practices is not just a passing trend; it represents a fundamental transformation with the capacity to nurture prosperity for both businesses and the planet.

Paper-based packaging is 100% recyclable, renewable and biodegradable, so by choosing specially designed water-resistant coated solutions made with your specific product in mind, you can minimise your environmental footprint and promote responsible sourcing operations. This aligns with the increased demand from consumers for brands to prioritise green business practices.

See how McCormack Family Farms transformed their Fresh Produce trays using a plastic-free water-resistant coating, helping them to elevate their brand image and enhance their reputation here.

 

4. Versatility

Whether you’re an eCommerce business, a retailer or even a wholesaler, you’ll need a solution that suits your supply chain and the products you ship. There are many coated packaging solutions available, including punnets, shipping boxes, cardboard trays, and much more.

Water-resistant coated packaging solutions are not only effective in protecting the contents from possible damage from the outside, such as moisture and contaminants, but they can also be coated on the inside, offering further protection. The customisable nature means they can be tailored to the unique needs of a wide range of industries. What’s more, they can be branded, helping you differentiate your products in competitive retail environments and attract shopper attention.

 

5. Protection and performance

Water-resistant coatings on packaging protect products from moisture and external contaminants, helping to maintain product integrity and quality.

They’re ideal for the demanding needs of various supply chains, ensuring delicate items remain in good condition. These coated packaging solutions minimise the risk of mould, bacteria, and contamination and help to keep perishable products such as

Fresh Produce safe for consumption. Reduced spoilage of produce translates to less food waste, fostering a more efficient distribution approach. This not only saves money for businesses due to negating potential losses, but also contributes to positive brand reputation through delivering on quality assurance for their customers.

Coated shipping boxes and packaging solutions can be a game changer for a wide range of products. They’re a practical solution for forward-thinking suppliers who are committed to quality without compromising on their environmental goals.

 

6. Consumer awareness

Coated packaging solutions cater for growing consumer awareness and expectation for planet friendly packaging. With 94% of consumers saying it’s a brand’s responsibility to create products that are not harmful to the Earth, and 61% believing they shouldn’t have to think about sustainability while shopping (Deloitte Global), environmentally conscious packaging is becoming a day-to-day norm.

Coated packaging solutions made with the environment in mind can help to maintain the visual appeal of products such as fruits and vegetables, preserving their vibrant colours and crisp textures, which is crucial for consumer satisfaction. Quality produce in sustainable packaging ticks consumers’ boxes when it comes to their expectations of brands, and this, in turn, contributes to enhanced brand reputation, encourages repeat purchases, and creates brand advocates.

There’s power in packaging

Packaging is not just about transporting products—it’s about ensuring their protection throughout the supply chain and seizing the promotional potential it holds. To fortify your products against the elements and elevate your brand with creative solutions, it’s time to embrace water-resistant coatings.

From coated boxes for Fresh Produce to resilient shipping solutions, our range of purposeful coated packaging awaits. Act now to safeguard your products and unlock the full potential of your packaging!

WORKPLACE EV CHARGE POINTS BEING INSTALLED BY MORE EMPLOYERS, REQUIREMENT FOR FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AT CHARGE POINTS

Posted on by Simon Brentnall

Almost half (48%) of UK employers have already installed electric vehicle (EV) chargers, while a third (32%) are planning to invest in charging infrastructure over the next 12 months, new research suggests.

Fire industry guidance mentions considering the provision of portable firefighting equipment at EV charging points. We have identified that on the back of this guidance many fire extinguisher providers are promoting the new Lith-Ex fire extinguishers, these can cost circa £400/unit.

The question raised from within BFFF membership is in fact, would you really want your employees attempting to tackle a EV fire?

We all know that Lithium-ion batteries pose a significant risk if damaged or exposed to high heat, as the subsequent chemical reaction produces a flammable gas which can cause the batteries to catch fire or explode. The gas serves as fuel for the fire, enabling it to spread rapidly and in a very unpredictable way.

Looking at the technical specifications for a large 9KG Lith-Ex fire extinguisher, it states these are safe to use on up to 1000wh electrical equipment (large e-scooter/e-bike), with a Tesla Model ‘S’ fitted with 5000wh batteries, this in itself possibly answers the question.

At this stage, we at BFFF believe this fire industry guidance is being drastically misinterpreted for the purpose of selling the very expensive Lith-Ex fire extinguishers into the industry. The bottom line is that in the event of an EV fire, you would never ask your employees to tackle this anyway. In addition, by having Lith-Ex extinguishers at EV charging points, this may also suggest to some people that they should attempt to do this.

We believe, the guidance (if interpreted correctly) relates to a sensible approach of having a fire risk assessment completed and the provision of standard extinguishers (Powder or CO2) located near EV charging points to tackle a small electrical fires which may start at the charger itself.

To give absolute advice of this subject we have passed this information onto our Primary Authority Essex Fire and Rescue who intend to raise this within the fire industry. Please watch this space for further details. Please see below FPA/RISC Authority guidance – Fire Safety when Charging Electric Vehicles:

https://www.thefpa.co.uk/resource-download/360