When thinking about the eco-friendliness of packaging, we mainly tend to think of how packaging can affect the environment.
Is it possible to manufacture it sustainably? When disposed of, will packaging harm animals or plants? Is this packaging truly biodegradable?
Surprisingly, more than one-third of the food produced worldwide is wasted or not eaten. Food waste weighs 1.3 billion tonnes, valued at $1 trillion yearly worldwide.
It is good to consider all these things, but there’s an important thing we seem to forget; the problem of food waste.
Waste is always taken into account when environmental issues are being discussed. However, what some people fail to realize is that everyone can take specific measures during the planning and manufacture of food packaging to reduce waste.
Looking at single-serve packages
While they may not necessarily prolong the food’s shelf life, single-serve packets are good in that the food will be consumed fast.
When companies package large amounts of product, the remaining food will be exposed to light and air, causing it to degrade faster. Single-serve packets curb this problem by ensuring that the packaged amount is consumed soon after the packet is opened.
Additionally, single-served chip packaging is frequently made of metalized polymer inflated packets that maintain a nitrogen environment inside the pouch to prevent oxidation, preventing spoilage.
Packaging Techniques
Companies will incur less loss from food spoilage if they use these techniques to create food packaging designs. Customers who like eco-friendly businesses and those who want their food to last longer will also favor them.
Vacuum packaging
Vacuum packaging is the best solution for meals that don’t need to stay fresh. This kind of packaging minimizes air in the package, resulting in reduced oxygen permeability.
Cooling technology
You can choose a cooling method that does not rely on chemicals such as hot filling and HPP. This way, you protect foods protected from bacterial contamination with the cooling technology.
Modified Atmosphere Packaging or MAP
In this procedure, the air inside the packaging is driven out and replaced with a gas mixture that inhibits oxidation. Using an optimum gas mixture, this kind of packaging will preserve food in the best possible conditions.
Multi-Barrier Technology (MBT)
With MBT, a barrier is inserted into the packaging material to inhibit the entry of light, moisture, and oxygen. These three substances accelerate food spoilage. Additionally, the barrier shields food from odor and light, which degrade texture and flavor.
The Role of Packaging In Preserving Products
The detrimental social, economic, and environmental effects of food waste are apparent. However, the role of packaging in preventing and reducing food waste is a topic that is still up for debate.
When it comes to consumer happiness, food spoilage has a significant impact. Your product will be a good investment for your target market if it is adequately packaged to prevent spoiling. Choose the ideal method to safeguard the goods you sell.
Packaging for Food Safety
Poor packaging could jeopardize the safety of your food products. This is especially important for markets such as baby food, where the end consumer’s health is truly paramount. Ensure that your customers know if the packaging has been tampered with using secure baby food packaging. This increases customer confidence, thus fostering loyalty.
