A new type of ready meal packaging has been launched by Asda this week. Described as “the first of its kind”, the printed, stand-up, ovenable pouch has been developed by TCL Packaging and is being introduced on a new range of frozen, fish-based cook-in-the-bag meals in Asda.

The printed Doypack took 12 months to develop and is suitable for microwave and conventional oven cooking up to 200°C. The pouch can also be stored as frozen. TCL said it is made from a PET structure to ensure rigidity and stability during cooking with no reduction in performance.  

 
TCL added that production utilises the latest ovenable inks and employs a new pouch-making conversion process which facilitates exceptionally strong seals, aided by high lamination bond strength. The pack also has good slip properties for easy handling during the packing process.
 
Markus Jarvstrom, TCL’s technical director commented: “This is a technically complex and innovative product that we expect to transform how certain foods are packed.  The performance of both pack and print at temperature for both cooking from scratch and reheating has been extensively tested throughout development.
 
“This new product offers a real alternative for products such as sauces, ready meals and soups currently sold in rigid plastic and glass packs. It reduces packaging and waste and is recyclable at appropriate facilities”.