while compostable labels and recyclable films are helping the industry respond to evolving sustainability goals and regulatory expectations. What once simply held produce now plays a multifaceted role. Packaging protects quality, supports marketing and branding, extends shelf life, reduces food waste and reflects both environmental and consumer expectations. As Western Growers marks 100 years of service, the evolution of packaging shows how far we’ve come and what lies ahead as we continue to advance scientifically sound, achievable and sustainable packaging guidelines for the fresh produce industry.
References Kresin, J. M. (2020). 1944–1969: Propelling the industry through packaged produce. The Packer.
Paap, J. (2024). East of Eden and the modern miracle of iceberg lettuce. Arable. Paap, J. (2024). Sealed for freshness: The rise of plastic and produce. Vision Magazine. North Carolina State Extension. (2025). Produce packaging. Produce packaging chapter. Agriculture Institute. (n.d.). Packaging fresh and chilled produce. Ewing-Chow, D. (2025). The coolest trends and innovations in produce preservation. Forbes. Packaging Dive. (2025). USDA, Clemson launch sustainable packaging innovation lab for specialty crop exports. Packaging Dive.
41 Western Grower & Shipper | www.wga.com April – June 2026
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