In the food and agri-food industry, every detail counts when it comes to ensuring the freshness, quality and attractive presentation of products. Among the accessories that should not be overlooked, crate liner paper is a simple, effective and economical solution for protecting fruit and vegetables at the bottom of crates, boxes or trays.
Why use crate liner paper?
During transport, handling or storage of fruit and vegetables, there are several risks that can affect the goods: impact, vibration, scratches, crushing, moisture or lack of breathability. A kraft paper crate liner placed in the crate acts as a protective barrier that:
- Absorbs and distributes shocks at the bottom of the crate, thereby reducing mechanical damage.
- Facilitates stacking and stability of the crates, as a rigid, uniform base which prevents slipping or deformation.
- Provides a lightweight intermediate layer that does not overload the pallet, while facilitating handling.
- Improves product presentation: a clean, neat, well-fitting base that gives an impression of care and quality on arrival.
- Is sometimes made from recyclable or reusable material, contributing to the company’s sustainability efforts.
Criteria to consider for optimal choice
In order to choose the right crate liner paper, professionals must consider several characteristics:
- Dimensions: The liner must cover the entire surface of the crate or box (e.g. 50 × 30cm or 60 × 40cm).
- Material & weight: Kraft paper must offer good mechanical resistance (to vibrations and slippage) while remaining lightweight.
- Food contact certification/hygiene compliance: For fruit and vegetables, it is essential that the material is suitable for food contact. At GDP Emballages, we are FSSC 22000 certified, which guarantees the traceability of our products and their full compliance with food contact requirements. In addition, our kraft paper is FSC certified.
- Stackability and logistics: The bottom of the crate must allow for good stackability, optimised space and more efficient handling.
- Environmental impact & overall cost: Choosing a recycled or recyclable, reusable material reduces the environmental footprint and optimises costs in the long term.
Key benefits for professionals
For market gardeners, greengrocers, fruit and vegetable wholesalers and agri-food companies, using paper crate liners offers several tangible benefits:
- Reduced losses: Fewer damaged products means fewer losses, resulting in a direct increase in profit margins.
- Improved logistics: A well-secured, stackable and protected crate optimises shipping, storage and transport flows.
- Customer satisfaction: Upon receipt, the packaging must be impeccable: no dented fruit, no marks or deformities due to a poor base. This helps to build customer loyalty.
- Brand image: The use of a well-suited, sometimes customised or coloured base conveys a professional image and a concern for quality.
- Environmental responsibility: By opting for recyclable or reusable materials, the company is committing to a sustainable approach, which can be an additional sales or marketing advantage.
Crate liner paper is a small yet strategic accessory in the packaging, transport and distribution chain for fruit and vegetables. It meets performance requirements (strength, stackability), protection requirements (shocks, vibrations, scratches) and practicality requirements (handling, logistics), while also offering environmental benefits. For any professional in the food sector, investing in suitable crate liner paper is a winning choice in terms of quality, efficiency and sustainability.