What is the Future of Food Packaging?

Aspects of the food industry are constantly changing, particularly relating to packaging, advertising and marketing. We are facing great change in this area as we reach a turning point with the use of food packaging materials – especially concerning the use of plastic.

Those involved in the food industry may be wondering how food packaging is likely to change and what the future looks like for the industry.

The Problem with Plastic

In recent years, public opinion has been shifting with regard to the use of plastics. As shocking images have emerged of the oceans filled with plastic waste and marine wildlife suffering the consequences, the crackdown on plastic packaging continues.

The 5p plastic bag charge is already in place in shops, in the UK, but it looks as though we will see many more legislative changes in the coming years. Not only the law is clamping down on plastic; public opinion is evolving, and the sense of social responsibility is spreading, as more and more consumers refuse to use plastic straws and single use bags in favour of reusable items.

It seems that we are witnessing a dramatic change across industries as the public rejects wasteful products and practices. Supermarkets are beginning to take measures to reduce plastic waste, so it is important that food manufacturers are able to keep up.

It is almost certain that the future of food packaging is plastic-free.

What is the Alternative?

There are a number of alternatives already in use, but we will see technological innovation in order to meet the expectations of consumers.

One company has launched an alternative to plastic that offers the same benefits as plastic but is an environmentally-friendly alternative. Products such as these, being biodegradable, avoid the problem we are currently facing with plastic packaging. It is likely that we will continue to see new products of this type that emulate plastic.

Another alternative that some companies have been exploring is edible packaging. One UK-based company has already created an edible water bottle made from seaweed. Moreover, other companies have been developing packaging for different food types which can be consumed.

While food packaging catches up with the public’s sense of social responsibility, some shoppers are turning to waste-free shops which sell many loose products and ingredients, with many offering refills of items such as cleaning and hygiene products.

With this in mind, it is becoming increasingly important for food manufacturers to find ways to package their food in an environmentally-responsible way. This could involve small changes such as reducing package sizes to using new and innovative packaging products.

While it looks almost certain that there will be some radical changes to the way we package food in the coming years, relevant certifications such as the KLBD Kosher certification will remain important. Find out more about how you can get kosher certification by contacting a member of our team on +44 (0) 20 8343 6255 and we will be happy to help.