Food packing is the process of wrapping food to prevent it from contamination, damage, or decay during shipping, storage, and sale. The damage can be caused by environmental conditions or intentional product alteration.
In addition to protecting and preserving the food’s shelf life, food packaging is used to contain the food, provide information about the ingredients and nutritional aspects of its contents, and make it easier for customers to use and consume. The type of packaging is directly related to the kind and nature of food material.
Materials used in Food Packaging
The material that is most suited for packaging depends upon the type of food and the specific function that is intended to be performed through packaging. It is critical for packaging materials to maintain a balance between shape and function. These functions include protecting the food from moisture, temperature changes, oxygen, light, and biological microbes.
Whereas packaging materials come in a variety of shapes and qualities. Packaging materials can be rigid, flexible and semi-flexible. The following are the top most used food packing materials.
Metals
Several types of metals are used in food packaging, including cans, tubes, containers, films, caps and closures. They are highly recyclable and are typically coated with an organic ingredient to prevent any interaction between the food and the metal.
Aluminum
Aluminium is resistant to temperature variations and is an effective gas barrier, extending the food’s shelf life. It is highly malleable and formable, as well as easily embossed. It is relatively safe, lightweight, and recyclable forever. It helps keep meals fresh and aromatic while protecting them from radiation, air, moisture, oils, and microbes. Aluminium packaging is often used for soft beverages, seafood, and pet food.
Steel
Steel is used to manufacture cans, containers, caps, and closures. Organic coatings are also necessary to prevent corrosion. Steel cans are made of tinplate, commonly known as tin-free steel. In addition, tinplate is an excellent barrier against gasses, water vapours, light, and smells. Tinplate is commonly used for beverage cans, processed goods, and powdered foods.
Paper and cardboard
Paper and paperboard are commonly used to package dry foods. After coating or waxing, its uses include the packing and serving of moist and fatty foods. They are frequently found in corrugated boxes, milk cartons, folding cartons, paper plates and cups, bags and sacks, and wrapping paper. Furthermore, Paperboard is a thicker and heavier material than paper. It is commonly used as secondary packaging that is not in direct touch with food.
High-density polyethylene Plastic
hdpe sheets are a low-cost, environmentally friendly material used in a wide range of applications, including rigid packaging and flexible films. Its strength and versatility make it an attractive alternative for producers searching for a feasible, sustainable material that can be used in a variety of packaging applications, including freezer and microwave. The advantages of HDPE roll stock include:
- Durability:
It is high-impact resistant and long-lasting, ensuring excellent package integrity. The thermoformed material is perfect for food tray applications ranging from microwaveable meals to case-ready trays.
- Food and Drug Administration :
The material is FDA-certified for direct food contact and has good organoleptic properties.
- Sustainability:
The material is recyclable, and recycled content can be used in a wide range of applications, making it a sustainable, long-term packaging solution.
- Inherent Barrier:
This is ideal for moisture barrier compositions. It has stronger oxygen barrier qualities than other plastics.