The launch of the microwaveable Snap Pot, the revolutionary new concept from HJ Heinz for its famous baked beans, has been made possible by the multi-layer thermoforming expertise of RPC Bebo Plastik.
The arrival of the Snap Pot marks a major change in the packaging of Heinz Beanz - which has retailed only in the traditional tin can format since the product’s 1901 launch - prompted by two important changes to eating habits that have occurred in recent years.
The first is the need for smaller portion sizes.
Research commissioned by Heinz suggests that single households in Britain have risen by 30% in the last thirty years to account for one in five of the population.
Similarly, with almost half of all meals now eaten alone, Heinz decided to create a new size that would be suitable for this demographic.
The second factor is one of providing convenience in an increasingly busy world.
“Snap Pots are perfect for people with time-pressured lifestyles who want a light snack without adding to the washing up or taking up valuable fridge space storing the remainder of the can,” comments Nathan Ansell of Heinz.
Fully microwaveable, the Snap Pot can be heated in only a minute.
HJ Heinz approached RPC, with whom the company has a long-time supply relationship, to facilitate the move into plastics packaging.
The Snap Pot concept consists of four individual 200g portions integrated into a splittable four-pack.
In addition, the multi-layer PP/EVOH/PP barrier construction enables the Snap Pot to be stored ambiently whilst maintaining the same high standard of product taste and freshness expected by consumers from the tin can format.
Each Snap Pot is closed with lidding film, which is branded with the Heinz logo and inkjet printed with cooking instructions.
The overall impact of the multi-pack is enhanced with a carton sleeve, whose larger decoration area covers the lids of all four pots.
The Heinz Hoops pasta product is also launched in the Snap Pot format alongside Baked Beans.
“RPC Bebo Plastik’s involvement has been instrumental in giving the Snap Pot its eye-catching appearance, user-friendliness and long-term product freshness,” says Ansell.
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