NEWPORT BEACH, CA - Fresh Solutions Network® has announced that a sustainable packaging design for SPUDS less-than-perfect potatoes was awarded first place in the nationwide Student Design Challenge. Non-GMO, gluten-free, all-natural SPUDS less-than-perfect potatoes were launched in 2023 with the sustainability and value-focused consumer in mind.

“SPUDS are part of the Fresh Solutions Network commitment to improving sustainable food management practices and reducing food waste,” noted Kathleen Triou, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fresh Solutions Network. “Sustainability is increasingly important to younger consumers, and we are proud that our potato product and packaging inspired these students to create the innovative winning design concept. While the paperboard concept is not currently available for retail execution, it is part of our ongoing research to improve the sustainability of our packaging.”

While the winning mock-packaging design features a three-pound zero-plastic paperboard pack concept, SPUDS potatoes are available in a sustainable BioFlex™ material 10 lb bag at retail, a press release explained. BioFlex is a sustainable packaging technology that looks and works like most plastic containers, but breaks down, is completely recyclable, and should be commingled with existing plastic recycling.

“SPUDS imperfect potatoes were created to decrease food waste and thus increase sustainability, and I knew their environmental emphasis would be a good fit for the contest,” said Tom Newmaster, PCAD Graphic Design Professor and SPUDS Designer. “The students had to design packaging from paperboard that would be transport-ready, attention-grabbing, and suitable for display.”

The winning design, created by a team of four Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCAD) students, was announced on September 30 at the 2024 Paperboard Packaging Council's Fall Meeting & Leadership Conference.

Congratulations to FSN and the winning designers for making this innovative packaging leap!