SFA Packaging has completed an innovative packaging project for Tasty Foods. The project focused on developing a new, almost square pot, also known as the cirkant (squircle) series. The packaging meets specific customer requirements, has a unique and distinctive appearance, and offers advantages for both transport and user convenience.

The Customer's Challenge

Tasty Foods had a problem with its existing packaging, featuring a top-seal film and a lid, as it did not meet its users' requirements. Customers complained that the lid would often come loose from the container when they picked it up. This led to damaged products and unhappy end-users. SFA was asked to come up with a solution to the problem. The R&D team looked at possible alternatives and decided to use the 250ml cirkant cup: a sturdy and reliable packaging solution.

The Cirkant Cup Development

The cirkant cup is an almost square pot with a well-fitted lid. It has two straight sides and two slightly curved sides. This unique shape offers transportation advantages and stands out on the shelf. The shape also ensures that the pots fit perfectly side by side without taking up unnecessary space. In addition, the lid snaps securely into place, thereby resolving Tasty Food’s problem. This protects the foil and acts as a storage lid once the packaging has been opened. So, products stay fresh for longer after opening. The cirkant cup solves the customer’s packaging problem and prevents food waste.

Technical Expertise and Innovation

As SFA Packaging is focused on technical expertise and innovation, the company decided to make further improvements to the design of the cirkant cup. An important aspect is de-nesting the packaging. This means the stacked cups need to be able to separate easily from each other. In order to tackle the potential issue, SFA added small stacking ribs in the corners of the cup, which are barely noticeable. These stacking ribs ensure that they don’t stick together, allowing them to be processed quickly and efficiently on the production line. This technical modification ended up providing an overall better design and improved the production process.

Sustainability and IML Technology

The new cirkant cup and lid are mono-material and 100% recyclable. For an even better presentation, SFA Packaging uses In-Mold Labelling (IML) technology, whereby the label is merged with the packaging during the production process. This ensures seamless integration and high scratch resistance. The result is durable and visually appealing packaging that is also highly functional.