12 Jul 2010 --- Two leading packaging companies in different fields have come together to create CukiLIN - a complete aluminium tray and film lid solution ideal for oven-ready meals.

LINPAC Packaging, the leading European multi-material packaging company, has been working closely with aluminium tray specialist, Cuki Cofresco, to create a combination that offers excellent on-shelf presentation, extended shelf-life and delivers optimal performance when running on packaging lines.

LINPAC’s high-barrier films – LINtop PP HB and LINtop Alu HB – have been specially developed to be compatible with aluminium trays. They offer a tight, robust seal which means there is no need for the product to be packaged in a cardboard sleeve.  Both films also have anti-fog properties to improve visibility of the product on the shelf.

The CukiLIN partnership means that a constant level of service and on-site technical support is available throughout Europe, ensuring that customer machinery is running as efficiently as possible.

The CukiLIN range has undergone extensive testing to ensure it meets the needs of packers, retailers and the consumer.

Cuki Cofresco has designed its plain and lacquered smooth-wall trays with one of the widest flange areas available on the market – improving the sealing properties and reducing the risk of food contamination due to seal breakage.

Combined with LINPAC’s LINtop films – PP HB (for lacquered trays) and LINtop Alu HB (for uncoated trays) – it offers a hermetic but peelable seal, further reducing the number of rejected packs for both retailers and packers. Although specifically designed to match the CukiLIN trays, the films are suitable for use with any smooth-wall aluminium product.

The tray and film combination is also suitable for MAP applications and frozen products – further increasing shelf-life and reducing food waste.

Pierre Thumerel, LINPAC Packaging’s Vice President – Protein Europe, said: “We’ve been asked for an aluminium tray solution by our customers and have developed the CukiLIN range in partnership with Cuki Cofresco.  The excellent lightweight trays have films that are designed perfectly to complement the range, preventing costly seal breakages and machine jams.

“CukiLIN offers retailers and food producers a good quality tray option that is recyclable, provides long shelf-life, is ideal for both freezing and use in hot ovens, and is convenient for the consumer.”

Emilio Minni, Director of Cuki Cofresco, added: “LINPAC are the obvious choice as a partner because they share our level of commitment to customers, service and innovation. They could rely on us to develop a product which would offer real benefits to the packer, retailer and consumer.”