Food Chain - Issue 204 - February 2025 | Page 78

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On the packaging side , Channel Fish Processing has recently added a skin pack production line to expand its range of processing capabilities . Skin packing technology extends the shelf life of seafood by vacuum sealing the product with a breathable film to preserve freshness and moisture content . Aside from quality and freshness , skin packing also offers clean and attractive presentation , making it easier for customers to select their preferred products .
“ Adding skin pack capabilities opens more doors for us to compete on products in the retail space ,” Thomas states . “ It will allow us to participate in additional seafood business where we were not previously participating . For instance , we ’ re testing lobster in a skin pack , and we ’ re involved with multiple test trials for other products . Our investment in skin pack technology also demonstrates our commitment to providing solutions that enhance both product quality and customer convenience .”
Such investments are key for Channel Fish Processing to maintain its industry-leading position and stay ahead of the curve . “ We ’ re constantly looking at ways to become more efficient through new machinery , automation , and robotics ,” Thomas explains . “ Most recently , alongside the skin pack line , we added an automatic label printer and scale system to print and label skin pack product in line .”
Industry partnerships with suppliers and vendors are also central to Channel Fish Processing ’ s continuous success . “ We maintain a strategic partnership with the Alaskan seafood industry ,” Thomas elaborates . “ Working with organizations like Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers and Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute as well as Alaskan fishing companies has been crucial to allowing us to grow . They provide access to a great , sustainable resource . However ,
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