Finding the right food packaging can be overwhelming. But with the right knowledge, you can choose products that keep your food safe and fresh. Let’s explore where to find the best food packaging options.
Good food packaging not only preserves freshness but also ensures safety and convenience. The best places to get quality packaging products are suppliers with experience and solid reputations.
Whether you’re a restaurant owner, food distributor, or brand manager, sourcing food packaging involves understanding your specific needs. Let’s take a deeper dive into the different types of food packaging available.
[Table of contents]- What is the safest food packaging?
- What is the best packaging for raw food?
- What plastic numbers should I avoid?
- What makes good food packaging?
What is the safest food packaging?
When it comes to food safety, packaging plays a crucial role in protecting both the product and the consumer. But what exactly makes packaging safe for food?
The safest food packaging is made from materials that are non-toxic, impermeable to contaminants, and able to withstand various environmental conditions. Materials like glass, stainless steel, and certain plastics are commonly used.
Food packaging safety goes beyond the material itself. It includes factors such as food-contact safety and protection from physical damage, bacteria, and chemicals. Safe food packaging should be certified by recognized food safety standards, such as FDA approval1 in the U.S. or CE marking1 in Europe. Glass and stainless steel are often considered the safest options due to their inert nature and resistance to chemicals. However, plastic packaging is widely used due to its versatility and affordability, but not all plastics are created equal.
While plastic is commonly used for convenience and cost-effectiveness, some types of plastic may leach harmful chemicals into food, particularly when exposed to heat. For example, certain plastic products made with BPA (Bisphenol-A) can be harmful, especially for products like hot beverages or acidic foods. In contrast, materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene (PP) are much safer for food contact.
Moreover, packaging that is resistant to oxygen, moisture, and light helps in maintaining the integrity of the food, reducing the chances of contamination. The material must also provide an effective barrier to bacteria, ensuring that food remains safe for consumption throughout its shelf life.
What is the best packaging for raw food?
Packaging raw food requires special attention. The goal is to protect the food from contaminants and preserve its freshness without compromising its quality. What’s the best way to package raw food?
The best packaging for raw food is one that maintains freshness, prevents contamination, and extends shelf life. Common packaging includes vacuum-sealed bags, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)2, and high-quality plastic wraps.
Raw food, particularly meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables, is highly perishable and requires packaging that prevents bacterial growth and preserves freshness. The most effective way to preserve raw food is through vacuum-sealing, which removes air and prevents the growth of microorganisms that thrive in oxygen. Vacuum-sealed packaging is common for meats and seafood, ensuring extended shelf life and preventing freezer burn.
Another option is Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)2, which adjusts the levels of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide inside the packaging to create an optimal environment for fresh food. This packaging is widely used for fresh produce, raw meats, and seafood, as it helps prevent spoilage and maintains nutritional value. MAP is particularly effective in extending the shelf life of raw food products while keeping them fresh and visually appealing.
For raw vegetables, high-barrier plastic films that block moisture, oxygen, and light are frequently used. These films help to extend shelf life and preserve the appearance and texture of the food. In many cases, fresh produce is packaged in clear plastic films that offer excellent protection while allowing consumers to view the product.
One of the most important aspects of packaging raw food is the ability to maintain proper temperature control. Refrigerated and frozen foods require packaging that can withstand cold temperatures, as well as packaging materials that can maintain an effective seal.
What plastic numbers should I avoid?
Plastic is widely used in food packaging, but not all types of plastic are suitable for food contact. Some plastics are harmful to health, especially when used improperly or in high temperatures. What plastic numbers should you avoid?
Plastics numbered 3, 6, and 7 are typically the ones you should avoid when choosing food packaging materials. These plastics can release harmful chemicals that pose health risks.
Plastics are categorized by a numbering system called the "resin identification code." The numbers, ranging from 1 to 7, indicate the type of plastic and its properties. While many plastics are safe for food packaging, some can release toxic substances, especially when exposed to heat or acidic foods.
Plastic number 3 (PVC): PVC is one of the least safe plastics for food packaging. It contains chemicals like phthalates and dioxins, which can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat. These substances are known to disrupt hormone levels and pose long-term health risks. PVC should be avoided in food packaging, particularly for foods that will be heated or exposed to acidic environments.
Plastic number 6 (PS – Polystyrene): Polystyrene is often used in disposable cups, plates, and take-out containers. While it is inexpensive and versatile, it can release styrene, a carcinogenic substance, into food and beverages. This makes it unsuitable for food packaging, especially for products that require long-term storage or reheating.
Plastic number 7 (Other, including polycarbonate): This category includes a wide range of plastics, some of which contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical linked to hormone disruption and various health issues. BPA is commonly found in polycarbonate plastics, which are used in items like water bottles and food containers. If BPA is present, it can leach into food, particularly when the plastic is exposed to high temperatures or scratched.
To ensure safety, it’s best to choose plastics that are rated as food-safe and BPA-free. Plastics numbered 1, 2, 4, and 5 are generally considered safe for food use, with number 1 (PET) being widely used for beverages, and number 2 (HDPE) often used for dairy products and frozen foods.
What makes good food packaging?
Good food packaging is more than just a container. It should protect the food, maintain its freshness, be easy to use, and contribute to the product’s overall appeal. What exactly makes food packaging "good"?
Good food packaging should provide an effective barrier against contaminants, preserve freshness, and be user-friendly. The right packaging also aligns with sustainability goals and brand values.
Good food packaging addresses multiple factors, from safety to functionality. First and foremost, it should protect the food from physical damage and contamination. Packaging that is resistant to moisture, air, and light ensures that the food stays fresh longer. For example, vacuum-sealed bags or MAP packaging are excellent choices for extending shelf life and keeping food free from contaminants.
In addition to preservation, food packaging must be practical. The packaging should be easy for both producers and consumers to handle. This includes factors like ease of opening, portion control, and re-sealing options for convenience. Think of resealable bags for snacks, or easy-pour spouts for liquids like sauces or beverages.
A good packaging solution also meets sustainability goals. Consumers today are more eco-conscious than ever, which is why many food companies are turning to recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable materials for packaging. Materials like PLA3 (polylactic acid) and paper-based products are becoming increasingly popular in the food industry due to their minimal environmental impact.
Finally, good packaging is essential in communicating the brand’s value. Packaging serves as a marketing tool and is often the first thing customers see. Effective food packaging conveys the product’s quality and your brand’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation.
Conclusion
When sourcing food packaging, it’s crucial to choose materials that ensure safety, preserve freshness, and align with your brand values. A well-packaged food product not only ensures consumer health but also enhances the overall eating experience.
Footnotes:
Click the link to learn about the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) standards for food safety. This is essential for understanding food packaging regulations in the U.S. ↩ ↩
This link provides detailed information on Modified Atmosphere Packaging, which is used to extend the shelf life of fresh food and preserve its quality. ↩ ↩
PLA is a biodegradable plastic used in packaging. Learn about its benefits and applications in sustainable food packaging. ↩