The United Nations Fisheries and Aquaculture Department (FAO) says “fish
boxes (for the transportation of fresh fish) made from HD-polyethylene are
superior to those made from other materials”. The FAO cites several reasons for
favouring plastic fish boxes, including durability; they have an expected
lifespan of between five and seven years “when properly handled”.
The FAO also states in an evaluation report that plastic material is “impervious to liquids, which facilitates cleaning and reduces opportunities for bacterial growth”.
It is not surprising then, that the fishing industry is increasingly using plastic boxes, right from the boat to the docks, through to the holding tanks and beyond. Our grandfathers may have sworn by the use of wooden crates, but time marches on and modern technology is pervading the industry. Today, wooden fish boxes are touted as “vintage” memorabilia on eBay, and some resourceful folk artists are even reproducing them as nostalgic reminders of the past.
The fishing industry has embraced the advantages of plastic fish boxes, which are hard to beat when it comes to distribution.
The FAO also states in an evaluation report that plastic material is “impervious to liquids, which facilitates cleaning and reduces opportunities for bacterial growth”.
It is not surprising then, that the fishing industry is increasingly using plastic boxes, right from the boat to the docks, through to the holding tanks and beyond. Our grandfathers may have sworn by the use of wooden crates, but time marches on and modern technology is pervading the industry. Today, wooden fish boxes are touted as “vintage” memorabilia on eBay, and some resourceful folk artists are even reproducing them as nostalgic reminders of the past.
The fishing industry has embraced the advantages of plastic fish boxes, which are hard to beat when it comes to distribution.
Design is all-important, particularly when it comes to capacity, handling, stackability on pallets, drainage and cleaning. With their smooth plastic surface, fish boxes avoid the hazards of loose nails and splinters, and are easy to open and close. They are also lighter to handle, reducing shipping costs, and are less porous than wood, cardboard or polystyrene, containing melt-water from packing ice and/or seawater added to keep a catch fresh for as long as possible.
Another advantage of plastic fish boxes is the fact that they float well, a distinct benefit for fishermen reliant on dragging their catch to shore.
The stackability of plastic fish boxes is ensured by moulding, making them identical and uniform, taking up as little space as possible on a fishing boat and therefore allowing a bigger yield. Once the catch is loaded into the plastic fish boxes on board, it can stay there until it reaches its destination.
Plastic crates are impervious to bacteria and fungal growth in the short-term, and are easy to clean and re-use, especially with a high-pressure washer. Fish and seafood require the most hygienic conditions possible.
Other advantages of using plastic crates are that they are resistant to weather conditions; let it rain, shine or snow! The plastic fish boxes will withstand temperature variations and moisture levels far better than wood, cardboard or polystyrene.
For more information on different types of fish boxes, you can visit the GW Containers website.
