Leading packaging printer Polestar Jowetts has developed and patented a container that can be held in the hand direct from the oven or microwave. Nominated in the Printing World Awards 2002, ‘Cooltouch’ uses an elegantly shaped CPET thermoformed tray of thin wall construction, which is assembled into a matching cartonboard tray by use of a special pre-applied pressure sensitive adhesive. The design incorporates a unique button to integrate the two trays as well as providing insulating air gaps to achieve the ‘Cooltouch’ element. The container is lid sealed using coated cartonboard or film to give 100 per cent product integrity. The basic tray components are provided nested, including the pressure sensitive adhesive applied during tray erection, for on-line assembly at the point of filling. Components are separable after use for disposal. The company chose Huhtamaki UK Ltd to provide the thermoformed tray element. Polestar Jowetts Managing Director Peter Watson says: “As packaging manufacturers, we are fully aware of the issues surrounding the materials we use and the products we develop. ‘Cooltouch’ represents an innovative solution to the increasing demand for a safe and cost-effective means of serving fast food and ready meals. Our customers in this market are extremely keen to explore the opportunities it presents for their products.”