Fox Packaging has introduced flexible packaging options featuring up to 30 percent post-consumer recycled content, strengthening its commitment to circular and sustainable packaging solutions.
PCR content gives existing plastic a second life, reducing landfill waste and reliance on virgin resin. In the fresh produce industry, incorporating PCR into flexible packaging supports circularity by closing the loop between material recovery and new product manufacturing without sacrificing performance.
Available across select poly, combo and stand-up pouch structures, the new PCR options come in opaque and clear films and in one- to 10-pound sizes. Fox Poly and Fox Fresh Mesh Combo bags — commonly used for potatoes, oranges, limes and lemons — can now include PCR in the base film component. (Fox Fresh Mesh material does not currently include PCR content.)
“Adding PCR content is one of the clearest ways brands can show measurable movement toward circularity,” said Iliana Csanyi, sustainability manager at Fox Packaging. “Our approach pairs verified PCR content with the technical support and documentation customers need, from visual appearance targets to barrier considerations and performance.”
Each PCR film structure developed by Fox goes through testing for strength, seal integrity and print quality to ensure performance comparable to virgin materials. Fox’s R&D and quality teams validate that all materials meet performance and packaging standards before commercial production.
“As brands work to meet retailer and consumer expectations on sustainability, quality shouldn’t be compromised. Our bags stay strong, even with up to 30 percent PCR,” said Aaron Fox, vice president of Fox Packaging. “With more than 60 years in the packaging industry, we guide the practical choices that matter — from clarity by commodity to planning for PCR pricing and lead times. The result is reliable recycled content without compromising performance.”
Because PCR supply is often tighter than virgin resin, Fox Packaging recommends customers plan for forecasted lead times. PCR films typically cost about 15% more than comparable virgin films, depending on grade and market conditions. Industry demand is rising as brands and retailers adopt measurable recycled-content targets and strengthen sustainability reporting.
While PCR content supports circularity and reduces reliance on virgin resin, it can affect appearance: recycled film may have slightly less clarity than virgin material due to feedstock variability. Fox Packaging works with resin suppliers and customers to balance sustainability goals with performance and visual expectations.
“Our goal is to make sustainability practical,” Fox said. “As more retailers and suppliers work toward measurable sustainability metrics, we will continue expanding PCR options and exploring innovations that support true circularity in fresh produce packaging.”
For each PCR order, Fox maintains supplier declarations, incoming material inspection records and production traceability linking resin lots to finished goods. Documentation is available upon request.
