The board used for packaging hot liquids such as soup must be able to withstand hot filling and heating in a microwave oven, and ensure the shelf life of the contents.

Stora Enso of Sweden claims to offer a solution to these demands.

"Packaging is important for creating a brand image in any market. In the US, the ready-made soup market is worth $3.8 billion and fresh soups are currently the rising trend. In the UK, the fresh soup share is increasing by almost 10 per cent a year. The value of the market is estimated at £52 million ($75.6 million)," says a company spokesman.

Giving an example of the use of Stora's board , he says the New Covent Garden Soup Company is the market leader with a value share of 39.8 per cent in the UK.

New Covent Garden Soup Company markets cartons in three sizes: two- litre, 568 gm and 320 gm cartons. The two-litre cartons are specifically for the catering trade and the 320 gm cartons are ideal for lunches and snacks. The 568 gm cartons are the most popular and are designed to serve 2/3 people.

The product range includes a total of 21 ever-changing flavours. In addition, four 'organic gourmet' recipes are available.

"Fresh soup should be a taste experience, which combines the freshness and wholesomeness of home-made soup. The package should be designed so that consumers can enjoy a gourmet experience even during a busy lunch break," says Kate Raison, marketing director at the New Covent Garden Soup Company.

The soups are packed at a temperature of about 85 deg C in gable top cartons manufactured from Stora Enso's Natura Barr board.

"The hot fill method makes it possible to package the soup rapidly and hygienically. The soup carton is sealed and then cooled. After hot filling the carton is delivered through the cold chain to stores. The product, which has a shelf life of 21 days can be heated in a microwave oven," she says.

According to Kate Raison, another benefit of the carton is its portionability as some of the soup can be left in the carton for later consumption.

Stora Enso's Natura Barr board can be also used for packaging juices, wine, yoghurt and washing agent.

"The board's high barrier coating ensures excellent gas, aroma and grease barrier properties, thereby improving the products sell by date and hygiene. The thickness of the coating can be varied according to the requirements of the application," says the spokesman.

The New Covent Garden Soup Company's converter is Field Packaging, based in the UK.