A novel, seamless, in-mould labelling (IML) technique has been used by Weidenhammer Packaging Group (WPG, Hockenheim / Germany; www.weidenhammer.de) to produce a stay-fresh cup for the packaging of mozzarella cheese. The oval-shaped, 225g cup is manufactured in a single-stage operation by the WPG plastics division, Weidenhammer Plastic Packaging, at its plant in Zwenkau / Germany. The customer is Germany’s Goldsteig and the moulded cup is used for packaging its “Bambini Mozzarella”.

Unlike conventional IML packaging, the moulded PP cup has a soft contoured underside with the label covering the entire surface. This was previously only possible, says Weidenhammer, by using thermoformed containers and sleeve labelling. Side and bottom labels are seamlessly integrated, without edges, in the single-step, IML injection moulding process.

"A realistic, three-dimensional image of mozzarella on the cup was extremely important to our client," explains Andreas Rothschink, WPP sales director. "Thanks to our expertise in the in-mould labelling process, we managed to meet these requirements and develop a solution that makes the product stand out from the competition at the point-of-sale."

The Bambini Mozzarella cup is sealed with a composite film and is completely air-tight, ensuring the mini mozzarellas remain fresh and aromatic. The result is a high quality, safe and reliable pack with an appetizing appearance and pleasant look and feel. It is ideal for quick-and-easy salads and was introduced by Goldsteig in early August. A salt brine prevents the mozzarellas from drying out.