A new packaging trial from Perfection Fresh and packaging manufacturer Opal is bringing kerbside-recyclable cardboard to the summer mango aisle, with Calypso Mango multipacks now appearing in select Coles stores across Victoria.
The packaging, developed jointly by the two companies, provides a plastic-free alternative for three-packs of Calypso mangoes. The format is built around functionality, branding impact and produce protection, while meeting recyclability requirements via standard household recycling streams. The cardboard comprises a microflute construction with kraft and recycled papers and is offset printed.
At the heart of the solution is a purpose-built cardboard carry pack featuring a series of open cutouts that allow shoppers to see and feel the fruit without compromising pack strength. The cutouts also support airflow, helping maintain the fruit’s freshness throughout transport and retail display.
Opal and Perfection Fresh have also incorporated a reinforced cardboard handle to improve convenience for shoppers. The compact form factor is designed for ease of stacking, carrying and storing at home – an upgrade on loose fruit and traditional plastic formats.
Liz Pridham, innovation lead at Perfection Fresh, said the collaboration reflects the company’s focus on meeting consumer expectations for more sustainable options.
“We are always looking for ways to respond to increased demand for more sustainable options, so partnering with Opal has truly helped us enhance sustainability from the farm all the way to consumers’ kitchens,” she said.
“Beyond sustainability benefits, the packs also improve the shopping experience, allowing consumers to easily identify the striking Calypso blue brand, against the vibrant colour of the mangoes, and touch the fruit inside. Convenience was a key factor in the packaging design and Opal met this challenge, creating functional packaging that can be carried and stored neatly.”
David Pointer, general manager – corporate business at Opal, said the project demonstrates how packaging innovation can enhance produce protection, branding and consumer appeal.
“Innovation is critical in the fresh produce industry, especially when it comes to packaging. At Opal, we’re dedicated to replacing single-use plastics with sustainable cardboard packaging that delivers performance, convenience and showcases branding,” he said.
“By working closely with Perfection Fresh, which has a strong history of innovation, we’ve created a robust and practical carry pack tailored specifically for mangoes. This collaboration shows how combining expertise can lead to solutions that protect produce, maintain freshness, reduce food waste and appeal to consumer demand for plastic-packaging alternatives.”
The recyclable Calypso Mango three-packs are now available in selected Coles supermarkets in Victoria for the duration of the summer trial.
