As a global market leader in the frozen food sector, Nomad Foods is seeking advanced material solutions capable of maintaining structural and chemical integrity across an extreme thermal lifecycle: from deep-freeze storage at -18°C to active cooking in microwaves, air fryers, and conventional ovens (up to 220°C).
The material must not adversely affect the product in any way: Proposals must demonstrate that the material has zero organoleptic impact, ensuring no migration of taste, odor, or aroma to the food product throughout its lifecycle. To ensure the long-term sustainability of our packaging portfolio, the material must
achieve a RecyClass Recyclability Assessment Method (RAM) rating of Grade A or B.
This may be accomplished through the use of an appropriate barrier coating or by
utilising an existing recyclable substrate.
The packaging format remains open, though our preference is to identify solutions that
could replace our current flexible plastic cook‑in pouches or trays.
The technology we are seeking should be at the functional prototype stage.
The proposed packaging format must enable a high-performance "cook-in-pack" solution for our consumers. This technology will facilitate steam-cooking directly within the bag, pouch, or enclosed material, preserving the nutritional integrity of the food. The material must offer high transparency, allowing consumers to see the product, allowing us to showcase our vibrant, high-quality ingredients, emphasizing the premium nature and freshness of the Nomad Foods portfolio.
Non-negotiables
- The material must be food-contact safe and strictly non-migratory; it must not contaminate or alter the sensory profile of the product under high-heat stress.
- Full compatibility with frozen chain logistics and home storage at a constant -18°C.
- Strong structure which would not bend or weaken throughout freezing or cooking
process.
- Must achieve a RecyClass RAM Grade A or B
Nice to have
- Preference for plastic-free solutions, open to explore paper-based, or high-performance bio-based polymers that do not compromise the moisture barrier.
-Transparency that allows consumers to view the product.
We are open to collaborating on the development of a joint patent where appropriate,
ensuring the solution can be tailored specifically to our requirements. However, anysuch collaboration must not restrict or limit our ability to fully utilise the packaging across our operations. Any resulting intellectual property arrangements must therefore preserve our freedom to operate and apply the packaging as needed within our business.
Technical Requirements
The solution should remain thermally stable enough for safe manual removal from a 220°C cooking appliance or freezer at -18°C, without collapsing or deforming.
The solution must be completely inert and have no impact on the food’s quality, texture, taste, or aroma, preserving Nomad Foods’ premium standards throughout the entire lifecycle.
Potential solutions will undergo a rigorous 24-month storage test at -18°C. This period includes regular quality reviews and sensory evaluations to ensure zero degradation of both the material and the food. The material must also withstand high-heat stress in home appliances (microwaves, air fryers, and ovens), reaching temperatures of up to 220°C for up to 45 minutes.
The technology we are seeking should be at least at a functional prototype stage. Applicants must be ready to demonstrate feasibility through shelf-life storage data and compatibility assessments with Nomad Foods’ existing high-speed manufacturing machinery.
Discarded solutions
Manufacturer of frozen foods, with 20 production plants, ~8000 employees.. A European Frozen pure play with a long runway for growth and value creation. Strong commitment to innovation with Central and Regional R&D capacity.
Create your free account to connect with Nomad Foods and thousands of other innovative organizations and professionals worldwide
Innovation Needs on Innoget are directly posted and managed by its members as well as evaluation of proposals. Innoget is the trusted open innovation and science network aimed at directly connect industry needs with professionals online.
Need help submitting your proposal or have questions regarding this Innovation Need?
Contact Innoget support
In the solution proposal submission form:
