Sealable PP meat tray with absorbent pad

The PP tray with absorbent pad offers a solution for packing products that may release liquid during storage. The pad placed in the bottom of the tray absorbs part of the moisture released, which can reduce the amount of liquid collecting freely. This can be particularly useful for a neat presentation of fresh meat and other foods that release moisture. It is advisable to choose the tray, the pad and the seal together, based on the properties of the product.

A pad fitted in the bottom of the tray

The pad is fixed in the tray without the use of adhesive. The pre-fitted solution simplifies handling during filling, as the absorbent element is already in the right place. The product must be placed so that the pad can come into contact with the released liquid and does not crumple. The shape and weight of the product also matter when assessing the design. With contents in pieces, with bones or with an irregular surface, the combined load-bearing capacity of the pad and pack must also be examined.

A choice matched to the amount of liquid

When choosing the right pad, we start from the expected release of moisture. The required performance depends on the type of food, its preparation, the portion and storage. The capacity of the pad is limited, so the final pack should be checked with the actual product over the planned storage period. The aim is for the appearance and handling of the pack to remain suitable during use. A tray and pad that have proved successful with one product will not necessarily give the same result with different contents.

The role of the lidding film and seal

Besides the absorbent pad, a lidding film that matches the flange of the PP tray and a reliable seal are also needed. The flange must be kept free and clean during filling, as liquid or product residue can impair the seal. When designing modified atmosphere packaging, we determine the gas barrier of the tray and lidding film together with the operation of the machine. The job of the absorbent element is to manage liquid. The required internal atmosphere is created by the packaging process, and it is maintained by an adequate gas barrier of the tray, lidding film and seal.

Product protection throughout the process

Using a pad does not replace hygienic processing, the prescribed chilling and proper storage. The effect of the packaging must be assessed together with these conditions. If the product is heat treated or heated in the tray, the suitability of the pad for this must be checked separately. When examining the finished pack, it is worth looking at the distribution of liquid, the condition of the pad and the appearance of the product at the end of storage too. This way the choice is based on production experience.

To choose a PP tray with absorbent pad, please tell us the product to be packed, the portion weight and the expected storage conditions. Based on this, our colleagues will help you match the tray size, the pad and the lidding film. Packaging designed in this way serves both moisture management and a clear, neat presentation of the product.