Multivac today announced the launch of its R175 CD skin packaging system. This affordable compact packaging system has been developed to deliver the advantages of Cryovac DarfreshR skin packaging - previously available only to higher-volume producers - to processors with lower to moderate volumes.

``Skin packaging gives meat and seafood processors a tremendous advantage not just in package appearance, but often in a significantly extended fresh shelf life,`` says Bob Koch, director of sales for Multivac`s food division. ``With the R175 CD, we`re bringing these benefits to more businesses than ever before in a powerful, compact system with the same capabilities as our full-size models.``

While other manufacturers may tout their ability to create ``skin packaging,`` only a genuine DarfreshR packaging system from Multivac is capable of rendering a flawless skin package above the web line - and without the tell-tale extra ``webbing`` around the base of the product.

Regardless of shape, Darfresh R skin packaging forms a ``second skin`` over the product with a top film web and hermetically seals it to the bottom of the package. This creates an eye-catching appearance that highlights the contours and colors of the product. The versatile Multivac R 175 CD offers smaller, growing processors the opportunity to compete with larger rivals with this same highly effective packaging for a very economical price.

For more information, contact Multivac at (800) 800-8552 or

e-mail muinc@multivac.com.

About Multivac Inc.

Multivac, inc. is the leading manufacturer of thermoform fill-seal rollstock packaging solutions, chamber vacuum pouch sealers, traysealers, shrink tanks, and both cross- eb and inline labelers for food, medical and consumer product applications. From its North American headquarters, located in Kansas City, MO, the company provides strategic consultation, technical design, sales, distribution, and service of Multivac`s complete line of packaging systems. Multivac maintains a comprehensive, on-site parts inventory, and offers 24X7 technical assistance and certified training for its entire line of equipment. To date, the company has designed and implemented over 100,000 packaging solutions. Multivac, Inc. is accessible via the Internet at www.multivac.com.