Cluster members are producing 1,400 tons of Balah & Ruttab yearly and most of the product is being dropped to the local markets in very poor packing conditions. Therefore, the cluster aimed to improve and to upgrade these packing methods with the world’s best. Optimum cost through innovative latest technologies to meet the requirements of the domestic market as well as regional and International consumers demand is the other important criteria, as packaging plays a crucial role in creating value added to market the products.

Fresh Local dates have limited shelf life ranging from hours to few days at ambient conditions. Packaging is required not only for food preservation and protection but also for safe transportation of products during storage and handling.

The assignment delivered the following activities:

1. Studying and analysing the currently adopted packaging systems either for domestic market or for export purposes.
2. Data on the present packaging systems would be collected by interviewing individually with the cluster members: farmers, wholesalers, small sellers, retailers, consumers, exporters and any other individuals, institutions deemed relevant to this task.
3. Suggested improvements/modifications on the present packaging systems through developing suitable consumer packages e.g. trays, bags or nets, carrier bags or baskets, boxes or crates taking into consideration the shelf life of the product.
4. Prepared 4 alternative prototypes and conduct shelf life of the same.

4 functional packages were developed for bulk distribution of fresh local dates and Ruttab for exports. Suitable sizes/5 kg, 1 kg weight of fresh products.