As more consumers search for sustainable packaging options, food and beverage companies are forced to make tough decisions about their products. From producers and companies to retailers, consumers and recycling organizations, packaging can affect the whole supply chain. The challenge for packaging manufacturers becomes determining what new innovations and materials are the best investments. Several companies have developed more sustainable options this year. And some new developments haven’t come into the mainstream yet. U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers have developed an edible, biodegradable packaging film made of casein, a milk protein, that can be wrapped around food to prevent spoilage. In comparison, countries across the globe are increasing their efforts and goals when it comes to sustainability for both food and beverage product packaging. But U.S. companies are still in the development stage on many of their innovations. While some companies work to find new recyclable materials, others are satisfied with current packaging options. Flexible packaging – which is any package whose shape can be readily changed, such as bags and pouches – is popular. Representatives at packaging companies said flexible packaging can be an issue for sustainability since it has multilayer films with plastic and paper that need to be separated to be recycled.
READ MORE >
Categories:
Tags:
Comments are closed