Jun 18, 2025
The Truth About Plastic Food Packaging Sustainability
Plastic food packaging sustainability hinges on life-cycle impact: efficient production offsets heavier alternatives like glass or metal. Plastic outperforms heavier materials in CO₂e when accounting for weight, transport, and food waste prevention. Microplastics aren’t a major source from packaging, unlike textiles or paints. Beyond recycling: strategies like eco-design, circular systems, producer responsibility, and consumer education […]
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Jun 16, 2025
Molded Fiber Food Containers: Promise or Problem?
Molded fiber food containers offer compostable benefits, but often need barrier coatings that may include PFAS or plastic. They lack clarity and durability, making them better for quick-turn items than long shelf-life products. Production is slower and more expensive than plastic due to complex forming and drying steps. Innovation is underway, but molded fiber isn’t […]
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Jun 13, 2025
Do You Know How Quality Plastic Packaging Reduces Food Waste?
Quality packaging fights food waste in America by extending freshness and preventing spoilage through barrier protection and smart design. Sealing, portion control, and durability cut down on damage and over-consumption. Lightweight plastic reduces transport losses, lowering breakage and carbon impact versus heavy packaging. Investing in packaging pays off, balancing cost and sustainability while supporting fresher […]
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Jun 11, 2025
The Reality of Post-Consumer Recycled Materials in Plastic Packaging
Post-consumer recycled materials vary in quality, depending on source, sorting, and contamination — real-world PCR isn’t always consistent. PCR adds color/odor challenges, meaning branding, clarity, and food safety must be carefully managed. Regulatory compliance is non-negotiable, requiring PCR materials to meet FDA/food-contact standards before use. Transparent testing and supplier partnerships are essential to harness PCR […]
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Jun 09, 2025
Trust at First Sight: The Strategic Value of Consumer Confidence Through Tamper-Protected Food Packaging
Tamper-protected food packaging builds consumer trust, signaling safety and care from shelf to home. Clear tamper evidence deters theft and tampering, keeping products intact and brands protected. Implementation costs and design impact usability, so balance security with consumer friendliness. Success hinges on seamless integration — educate consumers, streamline production, and ensure reliable performance. Food industry […]
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Jun 06, 2025
Plastic Bans 101: What You Need to Know as a Food Industry Professional
Plastic bans target specific single-use items, not all packaging — common hits include bags, foam containers, straws, utensils, and small water bottles. Rules vary widely, with a mix of city and state regulations, plus some states blocking local bans. Business impact includes packaging changes, cost shifts, and tracking compliance across regions. Trends to watch: lead […]
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Jun 04, 2025
BPA Explained: Should You Be Concerned for Your Food Business?
BPA-free packaging is a top priority, as consumers and regulators demand materials without bisphenol A due to health concerns. Alternative materials like PET, HDPE, and polypropylene avoid BPA but should still be vetted for migration and food contact safety. Supplier certifications and testing ensure compliance and prevent unexpected chemical exposures. Transparent labeling and communication build […]
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Jun 02, 2025
The Way Nitrogen Affects Food Freshness May Surprise You
Nitrogen flushing extends freshness by replacing oxygen in packages — slowing browning in produce and oxidation in meats and cheeses. Fresh produce gets a head start: reducing oxygen to 5–8% right away helps maintain color and quality. High-barrier packaging and MAP work for proteins: aiming for near-zero oxygen to preserve flavor and safety. Easy to […]
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May 30, 2025
How Controlling Fruit Purge Can Save Your Fresh-Cut Products Today
Fruit purge control is essential — managing expelled juices prevents soggy packaging, microbial growth, and product damage. Drainage systems (pads, trays, mesh) wick away excess liquid, keeping fruit fresh and appealing. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) reduces respiration and purge by adjusting gas levels around the fruit. Temperature control and rapid sealing are key — keeping […]
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May 28, 2025
The U.S. Plastics Pact: What Food Business Pros Need to Know
Plastic pact initiatives push brands toward PCR and circular systems, driving targets like 30% post-consumer recycled content and eliminating problematic plastics. Participation reduces risk, helping companies avoid future bans and align with retailer and policy expectations. Reports and data from the Pact offer actionable market insights, guiding strategic packaging decisions. Adapting takes time and investment, […]
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