Food Containers - Ireland/Abroad???

therealme

I am looking for containers for a small portion of food that can be reheated. (Sorry to be vague).

I would like them to be clear - maybe I can add a sleeve with the relevant information on it.

Question is am I better to look at importing from other countries (anybody know of reputable firms???) or sticking to buying them from Irish companies??

Initially I am starting in one shop and hope to extend to many shops & then eventually into supermarkets. From the feedback I have received, there is a gap for my product. Not VAT registered yet, will be in the coming weeks.

Thanks

Nuttzz

These guys in the north might be able to help you out http://www.jameshamiltongroup.com/jh-print-and-packaging-packaging.htm

therealme

Great, will check them out - thanks very much.

Any ideas/advice is much appreciated

Peterdalkey

Firstly you need to establish what type of trays/containers are correct for your product, Do they have to be oven-able and or microwave-able? Do they have to be one piece, two piece or film top. Do they need to be sealed? Do they need to be vented?
It is very unlikely that you would have the order volume, at this stage, to even consider buying direct from any manufacturer with tooling costs and high minimum order quantities, yet alone importing containers from abroad. Google "food trays and containers Ireland" and you will see plenty of Irish stockists of such products. You will however need to know the general spec of what you are looking for, Bord Bia, FSAI, local enetreprise board etc will be able to help with specialist advice for your product area.

Peterdalkey

Forgot to say, go into a supermarket and see what the existing players in your sector are using. The RESY number on the bottom of the tray will tell you what type of material they are using A-Pet, C-PET, PE, PS PP etc and the packaging style!

therealme

Thanks a mil for that.

They will be one piece, both oven and micro-wavable heated.

They will also need to be sealed.

I have paid for lab testing that will commence in the next few weeks so need to get them ready before that.

Have not found the Enterprise Board great - and extremely slow. Funds seem to be very low with them at the mo.

There isn't another product similar on sale at the moment so here's hoping!! Back to google in the meantime!!

Peterdalkey

Bord Bia, FSAI, local enetreprise board were mentioned for advice on suitable packaging and legislative requirements. Also be aware that the sealing of some of these materials can require some very expensive equipment and may even be only suited to one type!

therealme

The three of them passed it along and basically said to look into it myself or passed me on to somebody else who inturn said same. Bord Bia were to email me information - twice - am still awaiting it.

To be fair the Enterprise Board said I could apply for a grant for a website if I completed some courses with them.

That was the extent of the advice I got from them.

Peterdalkey

OK, I have some ecxperience in the packaghing area but not great on the food sector in rigid thermoformed packaging
Take a look at www.holfeldplastics.com , they are a big producer based in Arlow but also have some Irish distributors,They will give you some advice at least.

therealme

Brilliant, thanks a mil for that

The food & financial business aspects are more my area - packaging/branding etc. not my strongest areas.

Really appreciate advice given.

YellowSheep

Hi OP

You mentioned supplying supermarkets.... Packaging, also very important, would be your smallest problem. For you and your product to enter a supermarket, your production unit has to be up to the highest HACCP standard. And for you to enter any multiples you have to be BRC approved. Info here http://www.brcglobalstandards.com.

If you need any more pointers please do not hesitate to ask.

Regards Oliver

therealme

Thanks Oliver.

I am looking at initially renting a kitchen that specifically deals with my idea, (this meets EHO/HACCP standards) then as time goes on to rent somewhere on a permanent basis.

I have sourced all local suppliers that I need.

It is the 15% of smaller shops and artisan shops I will be targeting - already a few are on board. It would be a while before I would upscale - I want to start it & get it right and then increase it.

I feel at the moment I need to sort out the correct packaging before it gets tested as I am very aware how important presentation is.

If you have any other advice - please feel free to share - I would be delighted with any pointers/information.

Peterdalkey

You should also do some homework on your product labelling from a legislative perspective this will help www.fsai.ie/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=1220. Graphic Design and origination is another task altogether.

I was thinking about your project while driving in this morning and while your product may be of a unique design/recipe, it will still contain the same components/ingredients that are used in similar combinations in other food products. It will be either fresh, raw or pre-cooked. By taking into consideration the broader characteristics, you can identify the most likely suitable packaging already in use on the supermarket shelves and copy/adapt it!

therealme

Thanks very much for that Peter, I will look at the link.

I have been into lots of shops looking at their packaging - I have a rough idea formed with my designer. I got some container samples delivered in today's post & am awaiting more in the coming days so hopefully they will help me pick the best option.

Lot of work done - a lot more to do, but I am really enjoying it, really hope it goes well!

Really appreciate ye taking the time to put up links and give advice.

HarvestMoon

Hi, have a look at these guys they are based in Monaghan, they do a lot of different type trays etc for products for food industry in Ireland, they do some for us (not food) so PM me if you want more details or someone to talk to.

http://www.versatilepackaging.ie/

therealme

Will check it out - and thanks a mil, I just might take you up on that sometime.