Food Packaging
One of the largest market segments for the use of custom thermoformed packaging is food. Current data indicates that the use of thermoformed packaging for food products will increase by 4.8% by the year 2025. Part of this growth and success is due to the inherent advantages custom thermoforming has over other food packaging mediums such as paper and cardboard.
What are the advantages of using plastic packaging in the food industry?
Convenience: Many plastic packaging options are designed for easy handling and storage, often featuring resealable closures or easy-to-open designs that enhance user experience.
Customization: Plastic can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for customized packaging that enhances product visibility and branding.
Durability: Plastic is resistant to breaking and puncturing, providing a strong protective layer for food items. This durability also helps reduce food waste due to spoilage or damage.
Innovative Technologies: Advances in plastic packaging technology have led to features like antimicrobial & barrier properties, anti-fog, freezer safe and oxygen scavengers, further enhancing food safety and shelf life.
Lightweight and Cost-Effective: Plastic is lightweight, which reduces shipping costs and energy consumption during transportation. Its low production costs make it an economical choice for manufacturers.
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Preservation of Freshness: Plastic packaging provides excellent barrier properties against air, and moisture, helping to preserve the freshness and extend the shelf life of food products.
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Safety: Food-grade plastic materials are designed to be safe for direct contact with food, reducing the risk of contamination.
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Sustainability Options: Increasingly, manufacturers are producing recycled/ recyclable and biodegradable plastic options, addressing environmental concerns while maintaining the benefits of traditional plastic packaging.
Custom Thermoformed Plastic Packaging is used for a wide variety of food products across different categories. Some common examples include:
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Baked Goods: Cakes, cookies & pastries are often sold in plastic clamshells or trays.
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Condiments and Sauces: Single serving, portion packs are often sold in custom thermoformed trays with a foil or poly lidding.
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Dairy Products: Butter, Cheese & Yogurt is often sold in thermoformed containers such as cups, tubs or trays & lids
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Fruits and Vegetables: Many fresh produce items are packaged in plastic clamshell containers.
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Meat and Poultry: Plastic trays that have a shrink film over wrap are commonly used to package fresh, frozen, or processed meats.
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Ready-to-Eat Meals: Convenience foods, such as pre-packaged salads, sandwiches, and microwaveable meals, often come in plastic trays or clamshells.
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Snacks: Apple sauce, chips, crackers, nuts, and other snack foods are typically packaged in Cups, clamshells or plastic trays.
