Attracting attention on crowded shelves, conveying quality and sustainability, and making a solid first impression are all possible with right packaging. Beyond protecting and preserving products, it influences consumer purchasing decisions and sales.
Brand success in today's cutthroat food industry depends on wrapper and case quality, aesthetics, and practicality. Based on a news report, Paper and Packaging Board and IPSOS found that 72% of consumers say packaging design matters, while 67% say the material does.
This highlights the importance of finding a reliable packaging company Vancouver that offers products that can make your business stand out and appeal to today’s clients.
Current Food Packaging Trends
The Rise of Sustainable Demand
Sustainability in food wrappers is an indicator of a significant social trend towards eco-consciousness. Rising environmental awareness and demand for eco-friendly practices drive this trend.
Biodegradable Materials
Biodegradable solutions reduce landfill waste by breaking down naturally. This breakdown reduces environmental impact and closes the waste loop.
- Plastics made from renewable sources like corn starch decompose faster than conventional plastics.
- Due to their industrial compostability, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) are popular.
Compostable Storage Systems
Compostable containers enrich the soil by breaking down and composting. Industrial composting facilities provide temperature, moisture, and microbial activity for their composting. These include:
- bagasse (sugarcane fibre)
- bamboo
- bioplastics
Reduced Plastic Use
According to a journal report, the yearly production of plastic on a global scale exceeds 359 million tons. Reducing the use of traditional plastics is essential, as this material remains in the environment for an extended period.
- In addition to recyclable and biodegradable paper, companies are exploring edible seaweed material.
- Other sustainable options include glass or metal containers, which reduce single-use waste.
Use of Barrier Packaging
Food quality and safety depend on barriers to prevent spoiling from moisture, oxygen, and light.
- Moisture Barriers: Prevents mould and sogginess by blocking water vapour.
- Oxygen Barriers: Avoids rancidity and flavour loss from oxidation.
- Light Barriers: Stops UV radiation from degrading nutrients and changing colour.
Barrier solution's main benefit is shelf life. The barrier guarantees freshness from production to consumption. This is particularly important for perishable goods and products with high-value ingredients, such as vitamins and antioxidants.
Emergence of Innovative Packaging Solutions
Technology is changing how consumers in Canada interact with products and giving brands new ways to connect with them:
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Innovation |
Description |
Benefits |
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Smart Packagings |
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Improves consumer experience, provides brands with valuable data. |
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Interactive Elements |
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Enhances consumer engagement and strengthens brand connection. |
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Tamper-Evident Features |
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Increases safety and builds consumer trust by ensuring product integrity. |
Trends in Packaging Design
The design attracts customers' attention and influence their purchase choices. Colour psychology is essential—bright, bold colours may attract younger consumers, while muted, elegant colours may appeal to premium markets.
Colour schemes with earth tones are also very on trend at the moment. Browns, greens, and tans enhance the natural look and provide a grounded feel.
- Natural Aesthetics. Natural-looking materials, such as kraft paper and recycled fibres, is popular. Eco-conscious consumers like the rustic, organic look.
- Textural Elements. Embossed patterns or matte finishes can improve the tactile experience and match the natural look.
- Minimalist Design. Mixing natural textures with minimalist design elements like clear typography and understated graphics creates a chic look.
Top Materials for Food Storage to Maximize Revenue
Plastic
Numerous varieties of plastic are available, each catering to a specific purpose:
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): A transparent, lightweight material for bottles and food containers. Resists impact and moisture.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Strong and rigid plastic used in milk jugs, detergent bottles, and grocery bags.
- LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): More flexible than HDPE and is used for store bags, bread bags, and food wraps.
- PP (Polypropylene): This high-melting-point plastic is ideal for hot food containers, yogurt cups, and straws.
Plastic is used in many applications due to its versatility and affordability. This material is ideal for many products due to its durability, moisture resistance, and moulding ability.
Paper/Cardboard
Recyclability and biodegradability make paper and cardboard popular. They are used in secondary packagings, like product outer boxes, and primary packagings, like cereal boxes and beverage cartons.
- Corrugated Cardboard. A fluted layer between two liners provides strength and cushioning for shipping.
- Paperboard. Containers, boxes, and cartons are made of thicker, stiffer paper.
- Moulded Fibre. Using recycled paper, it makes trays, clamshells, and egg cartons.
Biodegradable and recyclable cardboard and paper-based packaging offer sustainability. They also print well for high-quality graphics and branding.
Vacuum-Sealed Bags (Zip Locks, Seal Rolls, Foil Pouches, etc.)
Airtight vacuum-sealed bags keep contents fresh. They operate effectively in temperatures between -40°F and 200°F (40°C and 93°C), and can remove up to 99% of air.
- Prolong shelf life and prevent spoilage by reducing oxidation and moisture.
- Prevent freezer burn and preserve flavour and texture.
- Used in industrial and commercial industries
- Used for freshness and shelf life in frozen foods, deli meats, and coffee beans.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight and durable. It blocks light, oxygen, and moisture, preserving product shelf life. Gives superior protection with an LTR (Light Transmission Rate) below 0.1%.
Aluminum is typical for drinks, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. It keeps products fresh and prevents spoilage in cans and foil pouches. Its sustainability comes from being fully recyclable.
Glass
Glass is entirely recyclable without sacrificing quality and has a high-end feel. Because of its inert nature and high level of contamination protection, it will not change the flavour or nutritional value of the good in any way.
- Due to their Minimal Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (MVTR), they effectively do not allow any moisture to pass through.
- Protects content well because it is non-reactive.
- Usually used for premium sauces, jams, and drinks. Its transparency and re-packaging use potential makes the product more appealing to clients and consumers.
The Value of Proper Food Packaging
Food cases are an essential part of developing a brand's unique identity. Consistency across wrappers builds loyalty and makes the product stand out from competitors in Western Canada and beyond.
Quality and design can significantly impact customers' perception of value. Premium materials, innovative designs, and attention to detail can make a product seem more impressive and valuable.
How Making the Right Material Choices Influence Sales
The suitable material affects product performance, consumer appeal, and market success, which drives sales.
- Product Protection. Food enclosures aim to prevent damage, contamination, and spoilage. Keeping your products fresh improves customer satisfaction and reduces returns and complaints. Adequate protection reduces spoilage losses, which also improves profitability.
- Shelf Life Extension. Extended shelf life without quality loss allows for more distribution flexibility and reduces waste. Your product's continued viability increases the likelihood of increased sales.
- Consumer Convenience. Practical containers can attract customers. Products that are easy to handle and store sell better, especially for your on-the-go consumers.
- Efficiency in Cost Management. Food storage costs can affect product pricing. Cost-effective, high-quality materials can reduce production costs without compromising durability. This supports competitive pricing and higher sales.
Rely On These Takeout Supplies For Your Business
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Product |
Material |
Ideal Use |
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Pp (Polypropylene) |
Perfect for iced coffee, smoothies, and cold drinks. Works in salads and layered dessert. |
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Kraft Paper |
Ideal for soups, stews, and hot drinks. Works for small sauces and sides. |
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Sugarcane (bagasse) |
Excellent for grilled chicken with vegetables, rice bowls, or salads. They are also suitable for meal prep. |
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High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
Ideal for marinating meats, storing chopped vegetables, or keeping snacks like nuts. |
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Aluminum |
Perfect for baking, roasting, and grilling. Can be used for casseroles and baked goods. |
Boost Your Profits with the Best Packaging Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does product packaging affect logistics and distribution?
Containers impact logistics and distribution through storage, handling, and transportation. Space-saving, lightweight, and breakage-resistant cases can reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain efficiency. Easy-to-stack and handle products streamlines logistics.
When choosing the wrapping material, how can I balance cost and quality?
Assessing material performance against cost is key to cost-quality balance. Choose raw materials that meet product protection and consumer appeal standards while exploring cost-effective contract packaging options. Browse Patek products now to find solutions that balance quality, cost, and effectiveness.
How can we adapt our packaging for e-commerce sales?
- Durability. Using durable materials and designs to prevent shipping and handling damage.
- Size Optimization. Create snug transport solutions to reduce movement and transit damage.