Ceepackaging

Technology

Microwaved in metal foil!

The consumer convenience and safety of alufoil trays is proved by several new product launches from fillers supplied by EAFA members that are hitting Europe’s supermarket shelves.
Whether paella or lasagne the versatility of alufoil trays means that not only is it safe to use them in the microwave, their use can enhance the appearance of food heated in this way. For example the Fraunhofer Institute (IVV), of Freising, Germany conducted a series of experiments with lasagne that showed that when heated in the microwave an appetising crust was developed.
No hazardous results or damage to ovens were found in the tests where food portions were heated in aluminium foil containers or packs containing aluminium foil during the Fraunhofer study. Only a slightly longer heating time compared with plastic containers was apparent.
The study has convinced companies like Charcuterie des Flandres, Le Petit Cuisinier and Rambol which are now using the versatility of alufoil trays for a range of products for use in the microwave. Charcuteries des Flandres has developed a range of nine special recipes in alufoil containers for use in the microwave, in a conventional oven and on the barbecue. The aluminium trays have a thickness of 113μ and feature a PET film lid as well as cartonboard sleeve. Other fillers are also preparing to launch microwaveable ready meals in alufoil trays this autumn.
This multiplicity of heating methods for which alufoil trays are suitable adds true consumer convenience. Not only are they dual-ovenable and suitable for use in the microwave, another great advantage is that there is no need to decant the meal on to a separate plate or dish as the alufoil tray lends itself to the oven-to-table concept loved by today’s busy consumer. Whether it is a lunchtime snack in the office, a delicious evening meal for one or a creative time-saving dinner with friends, alufoil meets all the consumer convenience drivers. And ticking off another major consumer concern: alufoil trays can be easily recycled.
Consumers simply need to follow a few tips to produce the perfect meal :
• The meal should cover most of the bottom of the container to ensure even heating.
• The aluminium cover must be removed and the tray placed on a non-metallic glass or ceramic plate in the middle of the microwave-oven turntable. It must not come into contact with the side walls of the oven.