Mumbai-based Vista Packaging, a leading manufacturer of packaging films and pouches with a global presence, has launched its latest innovation, Vital – a shelf-life extension range of packaging films and pouches designed to address food wastage while enhancing sustainability. The new brand is set to solidify Vista’s foothold in both the export and domestic markets, particularly in the fresh produce sector.
A technological leap
The Vital brand of films was introduced in August 2024 and leverages advanced European technology. By combining product physiology, laser perforation expertise, and polymer engineering, Vista has developed a solution that ensures extended shelf life for fresh fruits and vegetables.
“This technology is far more than simple perforation,” says Qadir Rangwala of Vista Packaging. “We use algorithm-driven laser perforation to customize the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) for each product, ensuring optimal respiration conditions. Every fruit or vegetable breathes differently, and our technology tailors the packaging to these specific requirements.”
Under the leadership of Ali Rangwala, who has overseen the project, Vista has invested in a high-tech laser perforation machine capable of creating holes as small as 70 microns, with precision ensured through an advanced camera detection system. Each hole is measured to remain within strict tolerance limits, guaranteeing consistency across millions of bags.
“For critical items where even a day or a few hours can make a difference, this precision differentiates us from competitors,” adds Ali Rangwala. “Whether it is strawberries, asparagus, or broccoli, our customized films deliver unmatched reliability.”
The new technology has been installed at Vista’s manufacturing plant in the northern Mumbai suburb of Vasai.
Combating food wastage
The driving force behind the Vital range of films is the urgent need to tackle food wastage, aligning with sustainability goals set by the UN. By extending shelf life, Vista’s films reduce product losses for retailers, growers, and exporters. For example, asparagus’ shelf life can be extended by three to four days, while coriander gains an additional day, which can significantly impact marketability, the company said.
“Certain products previously transported by air can now be shipped via sea containers without compromising freshness,” Qadir Rangwala explains. “This not only cuts costs but also reduces the carbon footprint.”
The films will also help Indian farmers and exporters expand their geographic reach. With extended freshness, produce can access distant markets previously limited by short shelf life.
A comprehensive approach
Vista’s approach integrates three critical elements: understanding produce physiology, engineering tailor-made polymer films, and ensuring precise perforation. The company employs respiration chambers to study the oxygen needs of various produce items, building an extensive database that informs their customized solutions.
“We are not just perforation makers. Our solutions are backed by scientific data and years of expertise in packaging technology,” says Ali Rangwala.
Market potential in India and abroad
While Vista Packaging already exports films to Europe, the US, and India, the launch of Vital aims to address rising domestic demand driven by organized retail and eCommerce.
“As Indian farmers and retailers become aware of the benefits of shelf-life extension, the demand for such solutions will grow exponentially,” says Qadir Rangwala. “The market is shifting, and this innovation allows farmers to maximize their reach and revenue.”
Target customers include Indian exporters supplying produce to Europe and North America, domestic growers, and large supermarket chains. The films and bags are also available in biodegradable options, aligning with global sustainability initiatives.
Future outlook
Vista is confident in the potential of Vital to transform fresh produce packaging in India and beyond. “This project is dear to us because of its ability to combat food wastage. If we can contribute even in a small way, it will make a significant difference,” Ali Rangwala notes.
For now, Vista Packaging is focused on scaling up the Vital brand, ensuring widespread adoption across domestic and international markets. Both Qadir Rangwala and Ali Rangwala said that with innovative technology and a sustainability-driven approach, Vista is well-positioned to lead the flexible packaging industry into a new era of efficiency and environmental responsibility.
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An English-language food and beverage processing and packaging industry B2B platform in print and web, IndiFoodBev is in its third year of publication. It is said that the Indian food and beverage industries represent approximately US$ 900 billion in revenues which implies more than 20% of the country’s GDP. Eliminating the wastage on the farmside can help to deliver more protein to a higher number of the population apart from generating sizable exports. The savings in soil, seeds, water, fertilizer, energy and ultimately food and nutrition could be the most immense contribution that country is poised to make to the moderation of climate change.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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