Food Packaging Market: What are The
Types?

Imagine if we are buying convenient foods
without packaging protecting them? We might be doubting the quality and the
hygiene of the product. That is why packaging plays an important role in the
food industry.

It offers various benefits. The packaging
can protect the food from dust and other environmental factors which can affect
the quality. Besides, packaging can also help in prolonging the shelf life by
maintaining its freshness and product quality. The packaging is also vital to
maintain the hygiene of the products as well as highly important during the
transportation process and storage.

There has been substantial growth in the
food packaging market across the globe. According to a leading market research
firm, GMI Research, the food packaging market size touched USD 349.3 billion in
2022 and would reach USD 528 billion in 2030. This robust development is due to
the growing demand for various convenience foods, the shifting eating pattern
among the consumers, as well as the improvements and innovations in the food
packaging sector.

Food Packaging Characteristics

There are several characteristics that are
important in food packaging.

1.     
Flexibility

Food packaging should be
able to be flexible so that it can adjust to various shapes and sizes of food
products. Most food packaging nowadays is cylindrical, square, or other shapes.
Meanwhile, flexible packaging can be modified according to the food product
which can help to store the food in refrigerator, pantry, or even bag.

2.     
Rigid

Rigid food packaging is
essential especially for products that are liquid. With firm material, it can
help in keeping the food intact thus becoming popular among food manufacturers.

3.     
Semi-flexible

Food packaging can also be
semi-flexible, which is somewhere in between the first and second options.
Caps, closures, and tetra packs offer customizable options that maintain the
necessary rigidity for products as needed.

Food Packaging Types

Food packaging can also come in various
different types that can be adjusted according to the food characteristics,
shapes, or sizes.

1.     
Plastic

It remains one of the most
popular packaging for food products. It used to be a luxurious packaging but
now it turns out to be a common material. Plastic can be customized to almost
any size and shape while also durable and airtight.

2.     
Paper

Paper is widely used in
the handheld part of food containers. Furthermore, we usually also find paper
packaging in milk or cereal products. Some paperboard types can also come from
recyclable materials which is good for the environment.

3.     
Cardboard

Most cardboard packaging
is sturdy which can ensure safety during shipping and storage while improving
handling practicality.

4.     
Metal

Even though it is not as
common as plastic or paper, there is an emerging trend of metal containers.
Many foods packaging ends up in landfills and pollutes the environment.
However, metal can be reused as many companies even provide refill solutions.
Moreover, metal is increasingly popular for its properties as it offers
durability and strength.

5.     
Glass

Glass can also be an option
in the food packaging market as it is not only safe but also visually pleasing.
Even though it can be heavier in comparison to other materials, it is resilient
and strong.