With a consumer spotlight being placed on food safety, companies across the fresh produce industry are looking for innovative new solutions in packaging. California based Veg-Fresh Farms has recently incorporated anti-microbial technology by Smart Plastic into film packaging used for their organic and conventional brussels sprouts. It hopes to incorporate the technology into other items such as lidding film, clamshells, etc.

Smart Plastic additives are inserted into the production process in very small percentages along with other standard ingredients. These additives transform the plastic into a powerful agent that is highly effective against salmonella, listeria, E.coli, MRSA, and dozens of commons dangerous organisms, says the company. It claims a 99.9% reduction in bacteria and a 5-log reduction in antimicrobial protection.

“The Veg-Fresh team and the Smart Plastics team have been in discussions for a few years now. We have been closely following their independent testing trials and have been impressed with the technology they provide. It is a natural fit to incorporate this technology into our packaging. Foodborne illness is one of the top threats to this industry, and we are committed to taking advantage of new technology to keep our customer’s food as fresh, safe and healthy as possible,” said Bob Wright, COO of Veg-Fresh Farms.