Mastronardi Produce Named PMA Impact Award Finalist

Kingsville, ON – Product and packaging innovation are at the forefront again this year at the upcoming annual PMA Fresh Summit taking place October 18-20th in New Orleans, LA. Greenhouse grower/marketer Mastronardi Produce Ltd. was recently named a Finalist for their SUNSET(r) Top Seal Packaging entry.

SUNSET(r) Top Seal is an advanced packaging system that produces far less waste than traditional clamshells. It uses a pre-printed film instead of a traditional lid to reduce labor costs and waste while creating a colorful, more attractive label. The package also lends to product safety; the unique sealed film is tamper resistant so consumers can feel better about the product that's inside. Top Seal is a fresh, unique packaging idea that is ideal for consumers who are concerned about sustainability and product integrity.

Now in its seventh year, PMA Impact Award submissions are judged holistically, earning points for excellence in four areas: marketing, food safety, supply chain efficiency/functionality and sustainability.  In total, 67 companies submitted items for the 2013 PMA Impact Award.

"Professionalism breeds excellence and that's something we like to recognize and reward," said PMA President & CEO Bryan Silbermann. "The Impact Award gives members a chance to gain recognition as packaging innovators. The award also encourages their industry peers to challenge their own thinking of packaging's role in maintaining product quality and safety, in communicating to consumers, and in demonstrating a commitment to the environment and sustainability', said Silbermann.

The PMA will display the submission samples of the 24 finalists in the Main Lobby of the New Orleans Convention Center.  The PMA Impact Award recipients will be announced on Friday, October 18th during the Brunch General Session. For more information about the Impact Award: Excellence in Produce Packaging, visit http://www.pma.com/resources/awards/packaging-impact-award.

To learn more about SUNSET (r) brand produce, please visit sunsetgrown.com.

Mastronardi Produce is a pioneer and industry leader in the gourmet greenhouse industry that grows & markets nationally recognized brands such as the Campari(r), Zima(tm), Angel Sweet(tm), and Kumato(tm) brand tomatoes under its SUNSET(r) label. Family owned & employee managed for nearly 60 years, Mastronardi prides itself on producing consistently flavorful gourmet tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers.

Source: Mastronardi Produce