6 Things to Consider when Packaging Perishable Food Products
In recent years, the chilled and frozen food product and packaging industries have experienced their fair share of difficulties. Food packaging is critical to the preservation of food along the supply chain. Food processing can be jeopardized without packing because it is damaged by direct contact with physical, chemical, and biological factors.
The development of temperature-controlled packaging in recent years has not only enhanced the shelf life of products but also their safety and quality. The concept of shelf life is directly tied to and intertwined with food packaging. It is the amount of time that foods, drinks, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and many other perishable products are given before they are declared unsafe for sale, usage, or consumption. Delivering perishables from point A to point B is one of the most difficult aspects of food manufacturing due to the numerous factors involved in packing and transportation.
Buyers want a product that is safe, appealing, and fresh. There are hundreds of methods to package perishables – and thousands of materials that can do the job – but there are a few key variables to consider when packing perishables. Some of the challenges when packing perishable goods are related to:
1. Security
The food industry’s product packaging is particular in the sense that it has to maintain the contents fresh and safe for eating even after extended hours of transportation and distribution.
2. Price
Packaging is not cheap. Packing expenses contribute to 8-10% of the total product cost. In addition to manufacturing expenses, the packing materials used by a company may impact shipping and distribution costs. Inventory expenses based on the size of a packed product will vary depending on the packaging style. Don’t be upset if your company cannot afford the desired package design.
3. Design
Packaging in the food sector, like any other industry, is influenced by many trends that emerge and acquire favour. Eco-friendly packaging, for example, is gaining traction in a variety of industries, including food and beverage. It’s important to keep up with what your competitors are doing if you want to be on the leading edge of design. This will give insights into what design features are relevant for certain items, and what can be improved.
There are data-collecting software solutions available that allow field personnel to audit rivals’ activity utilizing geo-tagged images and customized mobile forms. Being original with your packaging design is essential, but straying too much from well-accepted rules might confuse consumers and drive them away from your product. As a result, attempt to find a balance between being unique and being conventional during your packaging design process.
4. Branding
The package design of a product, including food product packaging, should represent the brand image of the firm that made it. Make sure that the packaging appeals to your target demographic. As previously said, your company’s package design should not deviate too far from globally recognized rules, but it should assist your brand to stand out from the rest. The packaging design should represent the elegance or simplicity of your brand.
5. Pallet protection
When a pallet is ready to leave the warehouse and travel to its destination, it must be protected against external factors. That covers anything from temperature fluctuations to dust or harsh movement in the case of perishable products.
Working with a professional third-party logistics provider is the most appropriate method to locate a quick, efficient, and secure route for perishable products.
6. Breathable packing solutions
Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as foods packaged warm or frozen, must be allowed to breathe. Although this does not apply to all perishable goods, it is a significant obstacle for those food producers who encounter it. Some form of wrap is still required to secure the pallet, however, the solutions outlined above may not work as well with these types of goods.
