Safe food logistics with sealed reusable crates
Food transport places high demands on hygiene, product protection, and efficiency. At the same time, there is growing pressure to make logistics processes more cost-effective and sustainable. With the Atmobox®, DELBROUCK has developed a container system that combines reusable logistics with the benefits of modern modified-atmosphere packaging.
The result is a system that reliably protects food, optimizes transport processes, and makes use of existing logistics structures.
Protection from external factors during transport and storage
A reusable crate with an integrated packaging function
The Atmobox is based on a plastic crate with standard dimensions of 600 × 400 mm, which is sealed gas-tight with a special film. This creates a hermetically sealed package directly inside the transport container.
After transport, the film is simply peeled off and can be removed with virtually no residue. The box can then be cleaned and reused. In this way, the system combines the advantages of traditional packaging with the efficiency of a reusable system.
The boxes are stackable and compatible with common European box systems. This allows them to be integrated into existing logistics processes without any modifications.
Extended shelf life through modified atmosphere packaging
If necessary, the Atmobox can be filled with a specific protective gas atmosphere before sealing. The composition of the gas mixture is tailored to the specific food product, such as meat, fish, dairy products, or fresh fruits and vegetables.
This so-called modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) can significantly extend the shelf life of many products. In practical applications, the shelf life of food products has been extended several-fold. At the same time, the use of ice can be reduced for sensitive products such as fish, thereby reducing transport weight.
Three options for different logistics needs
The Atmobox system includes several box types that can be adapted to meet various transportation and storage requirements. All variants are based on the standard module size of 600 × 400 mm and are designed for use in standardized logistics processes.
Rigid Atmobox – 200 mm height
Compact Atmobox – 200 mm height
Compact Atmobox – 140 mm height
Scientifically tested system
The functionality of the Atmobox has also been scientifically studied. Tests conducted with fresh meat and meat products at the Laboratory for Meat Technology at the Lippe and Höxter University of Applied Sciences yielded very positive results.
The seals proved to be stable and airtight. The gas composition inside the packaging also remained largely constant throughout the observation period. As a result, shelf-life extensions comparable to those achieved with traditional modified-atmosphere packaging in retail settings were attained.
In addition to improved shelf life, the studies confirmed other advantages of the system, such as hygienic transport conditions, protection against drying out, and the ease with which the reusable crates can be cleaned.
Can be easily integrated into existing logistics systems
The Atmobox system consists of three main components:
- Plastic boxes with a special rim design for sealing
- multilayer barrier film with adjustable gas permeability
- Sealing systems with various levels of automation
Depending on the application, semi-automatic or fully automatic systems can be used. Fully automatic systems achieve cycle times of about ten seconds per box.
In addition to rigid boxes, space-saving versions are also available, which can save up to about 60 percent of space during empty transport.
DELBROUCK – Your partner for customized reusable transport solutions
As an experienced manufacturer of reusable transport solutions, we assist our customers in developing customized solutions and are always available as a knowledgeable partner for new projects and applications.
Feel free to contact us!
Efficient reusable logistics for sensitive products
With the Atmobox, DELBROUCK combines packaging technology with robust reusable logistics. The system offers a solution for industries where product protection, hygiene, and efficient transport processes are critical.
The combination of a reusable box, secure sealing, and an optional modified atmosphere creates a flexible logistics concept for modern food supply chains.
