5 Developments In Folding Food Cartons
By Isaac Fletcher, contributing writer, Food Online
Folding cartons are an important product in the global food packaging market, and growth in this market will be driven by several important factors that look to meet new demand and take advantage of new technology
Migration Barriers
Migration of contaminants through cartonboard has been a serious concern for the food industry in recent years. The migration of mineral oils from recycled newsprint into food has been identified as a potential threat to consumer health, which has sparked the need for improved methods of packaging. In June 2012, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced the development of a scanner able to detect the unintentional transfer of chemicals from food packaging into food. Since this announcement, packaging manufacturers have strived to develop barrier packaging capable of preventing the migration of potentially harmful substances into food.
Cutting Material Inputs
Brand owners are always on the lookout for ways to reduce costs. One way to achieve this is to reduce the amount of packaging used in products. Reduction in material inputs not only cuts costs, but helps producers attract positive publicity. Various companies have put sustainability programs into place that aim to make more eco-friendly packaging that is not only more functional, but also created with less materials and more sustainable methods.
Single-Serve Packs
Reduction in material inputs is offset with a move toward single-serve packs for many food products. Single-serve packs typically use more material in their creation and, thusly, increase packaging volumes. The driving forces behind the shift toward single-serve packs are the rise in single-person households and lifestyles that force household members to eat at times different from one another.
Printing Techniques
In order to differentiate products in an ever more competitive marketplace, brand owners have become increasingly interested in new printing techniques and technology. Innovation in packaging design and printing has included elements such as QR codes, holographic images, and other 3D devices. Many producers are also exploring the use of digital printing, interest for which has been driven by a growing need for seasonal and promotional packaging designs that are easily achievable through digital print.
Smart Packaging
New printing technology has also brought smart packaging into the spotlight. With driving forces such as an aging population, increased disposable income, and stricter legislation and control, the need for smart packaging is on the rise. Future innovations in packaging will undoubtedly be influenced by the increased demand for smart packaging.