Empowering Foodservice Efficiency: How Sealed Air Supports Back-of-House Operations with CRYOVAC® FlexPrep™ – A Conversation with Riccardo Castagnetti
Riccardo Castagnetti, Strategic Marketing Executive Director, Sealed Air EMEA
Q: Riccardo, what inspired the development of the CRYOVAC® FlexPrep™ Portion Dispensing system?
A: At Sealed Air, we’re always looking for ways to help foodservice operators streamline their operations. We saw a clear opportunity to modernise how condiments and sauces are handled in commercial kitchens. Traditional packaging like cans and jugs is bulky, inefficient, and often leads to waste when transferring the content to a dispensing system. FlexPrep™ was born to simplify back-of-house processes, reduce waste, and improve portion control – all while maintaining product integrity.
Q: What are the key benefits FlexPrep™ brings to foodservice kitchens?
A: FlexPrep™ is a game-changer. It cuts condiment packaging waste by up to 85% compared to traditional containers. It also reduces shipping case sizes by 35% for the same condiment volume, which means better storage and logistics efficiency. Perhaps most impressively, it delivers up to 98% product yield with the dedicated dispensing unit which allows operators to get the most out of every pouch. And with precise portion control, it helps reduce overuse and manage food costs more effectively.
Q: How does FlexPrep™ support food safety and product quality?
A: Food safety is paramount. FlexPrep™ pouches are hermetically sealed and designed to eliminate cross-contamination during transfers. There’s no need for sharp tools to open them, which also improves workplace safety. Plus, the system prevents air exposure during application and storage, which extends shelf life and ensures consistent freshness and flavour with every portion.
Q: Can you tell us more about the materials and equipment involved?
A: The pouches are made from CRYOVAC® brand rollstock barrier film and feature a proprietary frangible seal for clean, reliable dispensing. They’re available in sizes from 290 to 710 grams, offering flexibility for different kitchen needs. These pouches are produced on CRYOVAC® vertical form-fill-seal machines, and the dispensing units, available through Franke Foodservice Systems, are designed for ease of use and compatibility with various sauces and dressings.
Q: Sustainability is a growing concern in foodservice. How does FlexPrep™ address this?
A: Sustainability is at the heart of FlexPrep™. By switching from rigid to flexible packaging, operators can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. The system minimises primary packaging and post-use waste, while also improving shipping efficiency. It’s a smart solution for kitchens looking to operate more sustainably without compromising on performance.
Q: What types of products can be used with the FlexPrep™ system?
A: FlexPrep™ can handle a wide range of emulsified sauces, condiments, and dressings—including those with particulates up to 6 mm. From balsamic vinaigrette to peanut butter, the system is designed to accommodate various viscosities and textures.
Q: Finally, what’s the one thing you’d like foodservice professionals to remember about FlexPrep™?
A: FlexPrep™ isn’t just a dispenser. It’s a smarter way to manage condiments in the kitchen. It saves time, reduces packaging and food waste, enhances food safety, and supports sustainability goals. This simple adjustment can significantly enhance operational efficiency and drive better bottom-line results for foodservice operators and manufacturers, offering a superior alternative to rigid containers.
Q: Beyond FlexPrep™, what other solutions does Sealed Air offer to support the foodservice industry?
A: Sealed Air is deeply committed to the foodservice sector, and our support goes far beyond just the CRYOVAC® brand. Our innovative solutions include Liquibox®, a leader in bag-in-box systems designed for high-volume foodservice operations, specializing in dairy mixes and condiments.
Our portfolio includes not only packaging but also dispensing systems, equipment, and technical services that help operators improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure food safety throughout the value chain. What sets us apart is our ability to deliver integrated, end-to-end solutions tailored to the unique needs of foodservice businesses. We’re not just a supplier; we’re a strategic partner helping our customers grow sustainably and operate more effectively.
The foodservice industry is evolving, and solutions like CRYOVAC® FlexPrep™ are raising the bar for efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Sealed Air offers packaging, dispensing, and operational support, acting as a trusted partner to help kitchens run smarter and more sustainably. Whether you manage a single outlet or a global chain, we’re here to help you serve with confidence.
Find out more
https://www.sealedair.com/uk/products/food-packaging/form-fill-seal-films/flexprep-dispensing-pouch
