Page 113 - FoodFocusThailand No.199 October 2022

STRENGTHEN THE PACKAGING

Ecological Packaging These new materials, therefore, aim at the absence or reduction
Most consumers are becoming more concerned about of plastic, partially or entirely replaced by biodegradable materials.
environmental protection. This is also confirmed by the Also, the companies’ efforts are focused on ensuring the same
research carried out by Nomisma’s Large Consumption aesthetic and technological results as standard materials. Among
Packaging Observatory, which found that in 2020, 33% of the increasingly used materials are bioplastics, which are derived
respondents saw the environment playing an increasing role from renewable raw materials of plant origin, such as starch,
in their everyday choices and 27% have always considered cellulose, potatoes, organic waste, etc.
the ecosystem a priority. Consumers in the future will be
more likely to buy products with less packaging or using The Transition of New and Old Packaging Materials
sustainable packaging. Do not think that ecological materials are only those that are
Along with the more traditional functions of preserving biodegradable or from natural and renewable sources. There are
and protecting the overall quality of food during storage and materials that have been widely used in the food industry for a long
transport and conveying information to consumers, the time and are perfectly in line with the ecological needs of companies
primary purpose of packaging seems to be to better clarify and consumers. Poly-coated cardboard for milk and juice is one
the product’s sustainability. Consumers are working hard to example, as is aluminum, which can be recycled multiple times.
change their lifestyles and consumption habits, demonstrating The aluminum is also practical, hygienic, easily machined into
that they are sensitive to the call for sustainable solutions, different shapes, and can be personalized through digital printing,
even in food packaging. in line with the marketing strategies of the companies. It is the
As a result, ecological packaging is a strategic choice paper industry, however, that plays an increasingly strategic role
adopted by several food processing firms, and it has piqued in the market for new materials thanks to the availability of cellulose,
the interest of consumers. The idea is not only a matter of which is essential to producing packaging with a low environmental
choosing recyclable, biodegradable, environmentally friendly impact that is easy to recycle. In addition, paper is the basic material
materials, but also of designing containers that can be on which bioplastic films can be applied to improve their
recycled after ending their initial useful life. waterproofing properties.

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