OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA - The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Plastics Packaging Working Group has persisted toward its objectives, despite being unable to meet in person throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Following research, analysis, and consultations, the group has now published its Preferred Plastics Guide.

In the summer of 2019, CPMA surveyed members of the Plastics Packaging Working Group on the usage of plastic materials for produce packaging. Subsequent analysis, supported by the evaluation of domestic and international developments and trends in packaging, resulted in the creation of the CPMA Preferred Plastics Guide – May 2020 edition. This guide is intended to help inform and support. CPMA members in their packaging decision making processes, and will be updated as developments in packaging materials, design, and recycling capabilities warrant.

Within the guide, plastics have been placed in one of three categories:

• Preferred – Given the potential or existing capability to recycle or reuse, CPMA members will continue to use the identified plastics and consider them as viable replacements for plastics identified as “unfavorable"
• Minimize – Although some recyclability or reuse may be possible, CPMA members will investigate alternatives or substitution for the identified plastics or continue their use where required
• Unfavorable – Due to a lack of recyclability or effective reuse, CPMA members will seek to eliminate or replace the identified plastics by a defined period

Additionally, the Preferred Plastics Guide offers considerations on labels, packaging design and form, plastic substitutes, bioplastics, and renewable-based packaging materials.

Click here to access the CPMA Preferred Plastics Guide.

The CPMA Plastics Packaging Working Group is continuing work toward a more comprehensive material selection guide, expected to be released by the end of summer 2020.

Canadian Produce Marketing Association