The bags are designed to dry age meat products inside the bag and users are able to vacuum, age and deliver the meat in the same dry age bag, completely eliminating the risk of bacteria from the outside environment.

Marc Willmott, Business Development Manager, Weald Packaging Supplies is excited to introduce the bags to the company’s specialist range of packaging products and will be showcasing the Dry Age Bags at Pro2Pac:

“The Dry Age Bags provide protection against off flavours and contamination, allowing you to dry age in any refrigeration unit without the need for UV lighting or specialised humidity control. The bags will produce a great end product – tender, flavoursome and visually beautiful steaks after 21 days.”

Another exhibitor specialising in vacuum packaging is the UK and Europe’s biggest selling brand of vacuum packers Henkelman (Stand N810). The company manufactures a full range of vacuum packers from small table top to large double chamber models, and the machine ideally suited for delicatessens is the Jumbo 42 – the most popular model sold in the UK.

Karen Stuart, Henkelman, explains the advantages of using the machine: “This is a medium to heavy duty machine, designed for professional use.  It has a stainless-steel body and chamber and comes with a transparent lid so you can watch the vacuum packaging as it happens.  It has an easily removable wireless sealing bar and a vacuum stop button in case you wish to stop the cycle midway.”

Adding another dimension to packaging is global packaging manufacturer Coveris (Stand N950). The company has unveiled new linerless print technology, using a pioneering new printing process for Aldi’s meat category. Combining multiple decorative effects in-line, the printing system works to add a fourth, tactile dimension to the labels to offer a further premium look and feel to the range.

The new technology is being used specifically for Aldi’s new range of top tier Specially Selected™ Aberdeen Angus steaks. The range comprises of four lines of British beef steak, and the labelling of the products reflects the world-renowned quality of meat and high profile launch.  

Jessica Weaver, Marketing Communications Executive, Coveris UK explains the method of application used for the launch:

“Producing a premium finish for outstanding shelf presence, the label production process blends an innovative mix of inks, varnishes and foil in-line using a newly developed method of application.  The use of high build silkscreen varnish creates a glossy, tactile stamped effect, while the use of further varnishes and cold foil combine to produce a multi-sensory, luxury appearance.

“Coveris’ evolution of printing capabilities on linerless labels during the development of this label, creates new opportunities for the production of more complex designs and premiumisation techniques. The expert use of high build silkscreen on self-adhesive labels, was recognised at the recent UK Packaging Awards with its entry for Killawarra wine shortlisted for Label of the Year.”

Pro2Pac, the UK’s only dedicated food and drink packaging event will take place 20-22 March, ExCeL London.  For more information and to view the full list of exhibitors visit: www.pro2pac.co.uk