IFCO Revolutionises Fresh Fish and Seafood Packaging
IFCO, a leading provider of reusable packaging containers (RPCs), proudly announces the launch of Marina, the innovative smart reusable IFCO Fish Crate. Developed in close partnership with the fishing industry, Marina is set to transform the fresh fish and seafood supply chain by enhancing protection, efficiency, and sustainability.
Technology for Enhanced Cold Chain Management
Marina incorporates cutting-edge track-and-trace technology using Bluetooth Low Energy tags and QR codes, facilitating real-time monitoring and enhancing the management of the cold chain. This advanced tracking system ensures that fresh and chilled products are monitored throughout their journey, from the ship to various points of sale (POS). By offering visibility into each crate’s journey, Marina helps prevent spoilage and ensures the highest quality of seafood.
Environmental Concerns with Sustainable Solutions
Single-use expanded polystyrene (EPS) boxes, which can degrade into microplastic pollution, pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems and human health. Governments worldwide are responding by tightening regulations and introducing bans on EPS. Marina provides a viable alternative, helping the fishing industry transition away from harmful EPS packaging. The IFCO SmartCycle pooling system makes this transition smooth and efficient, ensuring Marina crates are reused up to 120 times before being sustainably recycled.
A Step Forward in Sustainable Packaging
Marina is exclusively available through the IFCO SmartCycle circular pooling system, designed to support both wholesalers and retailers in achieving long-term logistics efficiency and sustainability. This system ensures that Marina crates are washed according to international food safety and hygiene standards and are pooled for reuse. The crates’ design allows them to be nested when empty and securely stacked when full, which optimises storage space and reduces carbon emissions during transportation.
Key Innovations in Marina
- Double-Wall Isothermal Construction: Provides superior insulation, maintaining optimal temperatures and keeping products fresh for extended periods.
- Secure Packing and Stacking: Features a tight-fitting lid, interlocking surfaces, and an easy-to-use strapping system that ensures secure packing and efficient stacking during transportation.
- Real-Time Data Collection: Equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy tags, Marina enables detailed data collection and analysis, enhancing overall supply chain visibility.
- Enhanced Protection: The crate’s smooth surfaces minimise damage and spoilage, contributing to reduced food loss and waste.
- Sustainable Design: Marina is robust, reusable, and 100% recyclable, offering a substantial improvement over traditional EPS boxes, which often end up in landfills or contribute to marine pollution.
Marina’s Circular Model for Sustainability
Marina exemplifies IFCO’s dedication to environmental sustainability. Unlike conventional EPS fish boxes, which frequently become landfill waste or marine pollutants, Marina is designed for complete recyclability. This approach conserves natural resources throughout the crate’s lifecycle and reduces the environmental footprint of seafood packaging.
Industry Impact and Future
Inigo Canalejo, Vice President ESG and Strategic Marketing at IFCO, highlights Marina’s broader implications. Our aim is to enhance environmental sustainability across all aspects of the fresh grocery supply chain. The Marina Fish Crate represents a significant step forward, offering a smart, innovative, and sustainable packaging solution. We are confident that Marina will make a lasting positive impact on the fresh fish and seafood sector and contribute to the global effort to reduce plastic pollution.
