Tempting Technologies

To give you a taste of the companies exhibiting in PLMA's new "Innovation Hall," here's a brief look one of them: Avery Dennison Industrial and Automotive Products Division.

Avery is showcasing a new steam valve system that provides a hermetic seal when applied over a pre-cut hole in flexible packaging. During the cooking process, the valve opens at a predetermined temperature and allows steam to escape. The system can be used in both microwaves and conventional ovens.

According to Avery, the seal guards food products from contaminants. What's more, the steam valve system enables food manufacturers to control how much steam leaves a package during the cooking process. The valves can be printed with text, graphics and logos in one color.

Avery is on my list of booths to visit, as well as many others featuring other new technology innovations.