The packaging you choose for your product plays an important role in maintaining freshness and extend the shelf life of the product. Proper food packaging material is important for protecting the product from contamination and is essential for consumers or businesses. If you are using biodegradable alternatives such as plastic wraps or kraft paper, each material has a different function in maintaining the food quality.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of food packaging materials and how to choose the right packaging material for your food.

What is a food packaging material? 

Food packaging materials are used to store or protect food products. It protects your food from contamination and prevents the food from moisture. There are few materials used in food packaging such as plastic, glass, aluminum, and other composite materials. Each type is based on certain factors that food safety and the demand of the brand.

Things important while choosing the material

There are few factors that is important when considering the material for food packaging which are as follows:

Food protection

Choose the material that protects the food from contamination and food will stay safe for consumption. Food packaging material plays an important role in providing protection against moisture.

Eco-friendly packaging

Use eco-friendly options to get sustainable food packaging material such as using biodegradable and recyclable material to decrease the environmental impact.

Cost Effective 

Select the material that is cheap and good in quality. choose the material that is easy to open and convenient for the consumer. It is necessary to make sure the material should be microwave-safe packaging.

Customization

Choose a material that allows customization in food packaging design and allows for easy modifications and branding.

Types of food packaging material

Let’s explore the various food packaging options available. Here are some common types of food packaging materials:

Plastic

Plastic is mostly used in food packaging material because it is lightweight and moisture-resistant ability. Although plastic packaging has benefits on the other hand it has also a drawback. It increases the environmental factors because of nonbiodegradability.

Glass

Glass packaging is durable and used to store jam, beverages, oil, and sauces. Glass can change the temperature and doesn’t react with food. Glass packaging is ideal as it provides an airtight seal, effectively preventing food from coming into contact with moisture. glass is perfect for preserving the food flavor.

Aluminium 

Aluminum is corrosion resistant and best for food packaging material. It makes a barrier against moisture and prevents your food from contamination. Aluminum packaging is recyclable reduces waste and maintains the food quality. This is the best choice for the packaging of coffee, snacks, and beverages.

Metal 

Aluminum and tin, cans are included in metal packaging. Metal can preserve the food and extend the shelf life of food. The metal packaging material is reusable so you can use it again. It is expensive because it needs coating on the outer side to prevent corrosion. Its shelf life is long due to its less interaction with the environment.

Paper or cardboard

Paper packaging material is the best choice due to its environmental benefits. It has recyclable and biodegradable protection and makes a barrier between food and the environment. This barrier easily protects the food from interacting with moisture. Although it is an eco-friendly and cost-effective food packaging option for the food packaging industry.

FAQ

What are the most commonly used food package materials?

Plastic, glass, aluminum, and paper are commonly used in food packaging material. Each material has its benefits like preservation, freshness of food, and sustainability.

What is the sustainability role in food packaging solutions?

Sustainable food packaging reduces environmental impact because of recyclable and biodegradable properties . It also helps in minimizing the waste. 

Does food packaging material play a role in preservation?

Yes, food packaging plays an important role in preservation because it makes a barrier against moisture and protects your food from contamination.

Can we consider sustainable plastic packaging?

Yes, sustainability is important in the packaging industry because of its recyclable and biodegradable properties.

What type of plastic is used in food packaging material?

Polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, low-density polypropylene, and PVC plastic material are used in food packaging materials.