Sabert looks to inspire up-and-coming innovators in food packaging design

Sayreville-based food packaging company Sabert Corp. is doing its part to help inspire the next generation of innovators within its industry.

As a gold-level partner of the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), Sabert will help support the 2023 Student Ameristar Awards program, which is a competition for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in packaging, the company said in a March 7 press release.

Founded by IoPP in 2008, the student contest aims to highlight the best in packaging design solutions across several categories, including refrigerated food, food saving packaging, shelf-stable food, frozen food and sustainable food packaging.

Sabert plans on awarding $1,000 to the 2023 “Best in Show” winner, who will be selected by a jury of packaging professionals and industry experts. Sabert will give an additional $1,000 to the submission that best represents excellence in food packaging.

In a statement, Stephny Halstead, Sabert’s vice president of marketing and new product development, said, “This year, Sabert is celebrating four decades of innovating high-quality and sustainable food packaging. Our partnership with IoPP underscores our dedication to delivering products and real-world solutions that reach the highest levels of safety, performance and design. We are energized by our ability to inspire food packaging professionals of tomorrow as we work together to help people enjoy food in more ways.”

IoPP Executive Director Jane Chase said the organization is “excited to welcome Sabert as a Gold Partner and appreciates the additional support they have committed to the 2023 Student AmeriStar awards program.”

Chase went on to say the partnership with Sabert aligns with IoPP’s goal “to create networking and educational opportunities to help packaging professionals succeed.”

“Our Gold Partnership with Sabert contributes to achieving our mission by celebrating and investing in the success of students inspired to make their mark on the packaging industry,” she said.

Interested students can submit food packaging design projects for the competition through April 14. Judging begins in May and winners will be announced in August, according to IoPP.