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Abstract

The present disclosure relates to molded fiber formulations suitable for the automated, efficient, high-speed production of fiber-based containers, particularly for containers for use with produce such as apples. Fiber compositions are created as slurries to be used in the manufacture of molded fiber products. Embodiments of the fiber composition include a fiber base mixture of pulp and water, with some amount of a fiber substitute additive that is chemically compatible with the product to be stored in contact with the final molded fiber product. In an embodiment, apple pomace is a compatible fiber substitute for use in an apple container in that it is compatible with apples. Pomace is the pulp residue remaining after processing of fruit to extract its juice, e.g., by crushing, pressing. Pomace includes the processed residue of seeds, stems, skin and core material of the fruit in addition to at least some residue of the fruit juice itself as it is typically not possible to extract all the juice in a processing operation. Pomace may be added to the base fiber as a dried pulp, a wet pulp, or a rehydrated pulp (i.e., the pomace was dried and then rehydrated with water) or any combination of the preceding.

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First Claim