Flexible packaging with built-in antimicrobial technology to reduce bacteria growth on the outer packaging of fresh poultry has been developed by Parkside.

The company is using a silver based additive that can be added into coatings used on the outer face of packaging, known to kill 99.9% of micro-organisms, such as campylobacter, widely recognised as a key challenge for the poultry packing industry.

Paula Birch, sales director at Parkside, says, "The demand for ready to eat, fresh and easily prepared food is increasing. Initially the packaging of these foods was simply to provide protective and barrier functions. However, the growth of bacteria on packaged foodstuffs continues to cause problems regarding consumer food safety and of course, product quality.

"To deal with this issue, Parkside has designed and developed a range of flexible packaging solutions which incorporate antimicrobial technology to improve pack functionality."