You must have come across all kinds of food packaging as a seller or consumer. You know that food packaging is considered to protect food against chemical, biological and physical contamination. Food packaging is one of the most common measures to enclose and preserve food. Be with us in this article to provide you with comprehensive and complete information about the packaging of food products.
Food packaging materials
Food packaging is made of various chemical materials, which have taken on a modern shape due to the advancement of technology. Food packaging is made of glass, plastic, metal, paper, wood, wax, cardboard, paperboard, ceramics, and other materials.
As we mentioned above, glass, plastic and cardboard are among the most common types of packaging for food products. According to the product type and the producer’s diagnosis, all kinds of plastic, glass and rigid cardboard are used in the design and production of food packaging.
Foils, aluminum, tinplate, tin-free steel and laminates are also used in food packaging. Manufacturers and retailers also use Fiberboard and Cardboard in packaging their products.
Different types of food packaging
Food packaging aims to protect food contents from damage and environmental pollution. We use different types of food packaging in various industries according to the kind of product, market needs, producer needs and consumer convenience. The following are among the most common types of food packaging in the market:
- Aseptic processing pallets
- Trays
- Cans
- Cartons
- Flexible packaging
- Boxes
- Wrappers
- Bags
All of the above are considered depending on the type of food product, market needs, marketing method, the importance of storage and resistance to damage and environmental pollution for food products. If you want more information about food packaging, stay with us in the rest of the article.
Food packaging supplies, boxes, containers
Different types of boxes, containers and supplies are used in food packaging. Food Packaging is designed and produced in various colors, models, and sensitivity and insensitivity to cold and heat.
For example, injected containers are available in different colors and are safe for food manufacturers. Injected containers are washable and last longer than other types of food product packaging.
Different types of Boxes, Containers and Supplies are available to you:
- Thermoform Food Containers Plastic Injection Food Container
- Plastic Plates and Cutlery
- Foam Food Boxes
- Ecological Food Packaging
- PVC Food Cling Film
- Paper and Foam Cups
Hot food containers
We’re constantly on the go throughout the day, week, month and year, so we will only sometimes be able to eat hot home-cooked meals. In this situation, we suggest you use one of the most widely used types of Food Packaging, called Hot food containers, to enjoy all kinds of hot homemade food during your trip, school, university, workplace, etc.
Insulated containers are among the food packages that allow you to eat hot food; In fact, your food will stay hot and fresh when the contents of these containers are there.
Hot food containers must retain heat, be leakproof, have high strength and durability, and be made of quality materials. Whether for short-term use, for example, for the workplace, or long trips, Hot food containers will be handy for you.
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soup packaging
Typically, soup containers are one of the most widely used types of food packaging used to store soup. Soup containers are made of plastic and protect the soup and its watery liquid from leaking out using their rigid lid.
We can say that Soup containers keep the heat of your soup for a limited time. Still, the bad news is that, in general, plastic packaging is not suitable for heating in the oven and microwave because the chemicals in the containers may be harmful to the ingredients.
It is better to use glass or ceramic containers to heat food in this situation. Let your food penetrate.
pizza boxes
Pizza Boxes are made of relatively strong cardboard and are designed in a wide and flat shape. Pizza Boxes are designed to store hot pizzas and move them to relatively short distances.
Pizza Boxes have made pizza delivery at home, work and any other situation easier than before. Pizza Boxes are designed from durable, collapsible, affordable cardboard, making them very easy to transport.
It is also possible to print your name and logo on Pizza Boxes.
foil containers
Foil containers are an ideal and suitable option for packaging food and medicine. Foil containers are a complete barrier against moisture, light, bacteria and oxygen, so they are the best option for packaging food products—foil containers are one of the types of food packaging that allows the storage of perishable goods without refrigeration.
Aluminum foil is not dangerous, but if you are worried about consuming too much aluminum foil or your body is allergic to this type of material, it is better to use another packaging for your food products.
Cold food containers
Cold food containers are among the types of cold food containers that are usually compatible with the environment. Polyethene, polystyrene and plastic are used in cold food containers so that it is possible to keep them at a shallow temperature in the refrigerator and freezer.
As mentioned above, cold food containers are made of non-biodegradable compostable materials that are petroleum-free. For example, all kinds of vegetables, raw meat, fish, and other food items are stored in this type of packaging at a shallow temperature to prevent spoilage.
Ice cream
Ice cream tubs are high-quality and practical types of ice cream tubs that resist freezing. Usually, ice cream tubs are made of rigid plastic that can keep the contents inside the package at a low temperature for a short time.
Ice cream tubs come in various variable sizes and are generally considered 28 to 96 ounces. This type of packaging is made of PLA materials and is entirely recyclable. PLA is a plant-based plastic material made from environmentally friendly materials.
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Plastic food takeaway boxes
Plastic food takeaway boxes are among the suitable packaging in the food industry, which is considered for storing and transporting drinks, food and even non-food products.
Plastic food takeaway boxes are made of synthetic polymer materials, and usually, their thickness should be at least one-hundredth of an inch.
In general, Plastic food takeaway boxes are used for all food products; In fact, it is much easier to transport food with this type of packaging than with other types of packaging.
Bakery supplies
If you have been to a bakery at least once or are familiar with homemade baking bread, you know what bakery supplies are and how they are used.
Bakery supplies are among the tools for baking bread, which include the following:
- Measuring Cups (Liquid and Dry) and Spoons
- Pastry Brush
- Kitchen Scissors
- Rolling Pin
- Must-Have Baking Tools
- Rubber Spatula/Scraper
- Wooden Spoon
- Spatula/Metal Turner
Most of the tools we mentioned above are made of high-quality and resistant plastics that will not change shape under heavy use or heat and will not introduce chemicals into food.
Also, the bread packages are designed and produced from all kinds of cardboard, paper and quality plastics, which makes it easier for you to buy hot bread in this type of packaging.
Carrier bags and food bags
It might be interesting to know if you use carrier and food bags daily or every few days. Carrier and food bags are made of paper, plastic or fabric and are considered to store customer purchases.
Carrier bags and food bags are also considered shopping bags or retail bags. Plastic bags are better than paper bags and are more resistant to getting wet.
If the types of bags used for shopping are recycled, their use will not pose a severe environmental risk.
Food packaging accessories
To attract customers and satisfy them and in line with the marketing of your products, you can use a variety of food packaging accessories.
Food packaging includes all types of accessories made of plastic, fabric, ribbon, paper, glass and even beautiful boxes.
You can use Food packaging accessories or accessories before packaging and then put them in larger packages.
Partyware
Generally, Partyware is disposable tableware that comes in different types, such as cups, plates, plastic spoons, and forks for use at parties.
As we have mentioned, they are generally made of plastic, which is available in recyclable and non-recyclable types in the market.
Also, some kinds of Partyware are considered for food packaging at parties and presented to guests in small, beautiful packages. The following items fall under the Partyware category:
Tableware: Tableware is generally made of recyclable plastics suitable for food packaging.
Cups: In general, Cups are disposable and considered a little different because you can use them for hot drinks.
Cutlery and napkins: Cutlery and napkins are available in various colorful packages, and you can choose the best option depending on your needs.
Straws: Straws are made of plastic and are offered in various packages, colors and sizes.
Lids: Lids are used to cover leftover food in containers without doors, which are usually available in different sizes and types.
Take away food boxes, cartons and containers
Take-away food boxes, cartons and containers are among the types of suitable and standard packaging in the food industry, which are used to move and use food in another place; This means that the customer may buy food products but consume them at home, work, party, etc., so it is necessary to consider their packaging suitable for take away.
Eco-Friendly food packaging and accessories
Some types of packaging are Eco Friendly; These types include bamboo, rice husk, food-grade stainless steel, glass, and other materials that are generally available in the market.
Among the types of environmentally friendly packaging, we can mention the following two groups:
- Compostable & Recyclable food packaging
- Biodegradable
These packages are considered in different types and shapes and for other uses.
Compostable packaging peanuts, Compostable packaging mailers and Recyclable adhesive shipping labels are included in this category.
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Paper bag or plastic bag
Paper and plastic bags are two of the most widely used bags for customers to use when purchasing products. In general, the use of plastic bags is more common.
Still, other styles, such as paper and cotton bags, are recommended due to the incompatibility of some types of plastic bags with the environment.
Carrier bags for foods
Carrier Bags and Food Bags are common types of food packaging that are considered for packing and moving food. This packaging is used for food, fast foods, salads and cakes.
Some types of packaging are just Carrier Bags and are considered to be transported to another place, but others are Food Bags and will be considered as food packaging. You can view the following categories:
Takeaway Containers & Trays: They are considered for use in parties and are very easy to move.
Foil Containers, Trays & Lids: Different foil containers are considered for food packaging and assure you that your food will stay fresh and warm. Aluminum foil is also one of the other types in this category.
Salad Boxes: Salad Boxes are considered in different types, sizes and colors. Salad Boxes are small enough to fit next to your food and large enough to hold a variety of vegetables and keep them fresh.
Sandwich Packaging: To package sandwiches there are different types of packaging. Some kinds of sandwich packaging are made of plastic, and others are made of paper or foil. Depending on the sort of sandwich, they are considered one of the types of packaging. Film wrap is one of the most widely used types of sandwich packaging, which will be a durable alternative to paper packaging.
Disposable Soup Containers & Lids: As we have mentioned above, Soup Containers are considered for storing, moving, preventing the entry of contamination and preventing the soup from leaking out. Usually, they are made of plastic or strong cardboard.
Plastic Containers with Lids: These containers are used to pack leftover food from parties or to send to customers. One of the essential features of Plastic Containers with Lids is the non-leakage and non-penetration of contamination to food.
Food Bags, Wraps & Sheets: This packaging is used for home delivery, party use, food production, food service, coffee shops, delis, street food and supermarkets. These types of packaging are sealed to prevent contamination from entering the food.
Cake Boxes & Accessories: This packaging is used for short-term storage of the cake and its transfer to the place ordered by the customer. Cake Boxes are available in different sizes, colors and models, and it is possible to print logos or business names on them.
Children’s Party Boxes: This packaging is used in children’s parties. This packaging is very suitable for providing snacks such as chips and puffs. Children’s Party Boxes are available in different types, models, colors and sizes that can change depending on the child’s taste.
Cupcake Boxes: As the name suggests, Cupcake Boxes are considered for cupcake packaging and are available in small sizes with suitable lids.
Importance of food packaging
Food packaging is one of the most critical measures in the food industry that maintains food safety. Food safety is paramount to maintaining the health and well-being of customers, so it is essential to consider food packaging tips to protect food from external factors, physical damage, Food contamination and heat.
The following are among the reasons for the importance of food packaging:
Convenience, portion control and containment: At this stage, if the packaging is done correctly, it will be straightforward to maintain safety and maintenance.
Security and transmission: Food safety and protection during storage and communication are essential for producers and consumers.
Physical barrier: Proper food packaging will remove physical barriers, and you can easily pack, store and move them.
Logistics: If you pay attention to the correct way of food packaging, you will be okay with logistics.
Marketing: One of the most important parts of food packaging is marketing. Choosing suitable and printable packaging allows you to consider proper marketing for your products.
Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is one of the types of packaging that is usually made of plastic. Tetra Pak is intended for packaging juice, milk and other beverages. Initially, Tetra Pak was marketed as a tetrahedron, but now it is considered a rectangular cube.
Tetra Pak is produced from a combination of plastic sheets, cardboard, aluminum and bioplastic cap and has the following features:
Attractiveness with a simple look: These packages with a simple but attractive look are very suitable for attracting customers.
Sustainable carton packages: This type of food packaging is suitable and sustainable and is used to store drinks and prevent contamination from entering them.
Tethered caps for Tetra Pak carton packages: The cap used in this packaging is designed to be easily opened and closed again and prevent contamination from entering the drink.
Important elements in food packaging design
Regardless of what products you offer, whether your company is large or small, you need to be able to consider suitable, attractive, functional, safe and environmentally friendly packaging for your products. Considering the elements in food packaging design is very important and will grow your business.
Also, you can win the trust of your customers by focusing on details in food packaging design. Consider the following for food packaging design:
Insulation: This option makes the food maintain its temperature. Also, food packaging insulation keeps the contents inside the package fresh.
Design: Design is one of the main pillars of food packaging. You can attract more customers to your products with a simple but attractive design.
Sustainable packaging: As we mentioned above, Sustainable packaging will preserve food for a more extended period and are environmentally friendly.
Transports and protection: A correct choice in the design and type of food packaging is to preserve and transport them easily.
Non-toxic inks: Using non-toxic inks in the design of food packaging will prevent contamination and toxic inks from entering the food.
Commercially compostable: For plastic to be considered “Commercially compostable”, it must be able to be decomposed by biological treatment in a commercial composting facility.
Managed forests: To preserve the environment and managed forests, you can use all kinds of designs and elements suitable for food packaging.
Packaging benefits for business
At this stage, we must say that all kinds of food packaging have been considered for your products, but it may take work to recognize the right option.
Food packaging should be environmentally friendly and recyclable because many of them are used daily by customers of various products.
If we pay attention to the compatibility of food packaging with the environment, we will witness the destruction of the environment.
Sustainable packaging is placed in reusable, recyclable and compostable categories. The following options are excellent choices for business use:
- Compostable packing peanuts
- Bioplastics
- Mushroom packaging
- Corrugated cardboard
- Packing paper
- Reusable plastic totes
- Compostable mailers
Conclusion
The importance of food packaging is not hidden from any producer or consumer. To properly understand it, you have chosen the right article.
This article is about types of food packaging, raw materials used, environmentally friendly packaging, widely used types of packaging in parties, the importance of packaging in different industries, food packaging for takeaway, food packaging accessories, essential elements in food packaging design and things like this provide you with complete information.
The importance of food packaging is not hidden from producers and consumers; manufacturers know that to grow their business, they must focus on the selection of food and product packaging.
The things mentioned in the text are among the essential things that you should consider when choosing food packaging.