In the face of rising consumer demands, innovation in packaging design is at the forefront. A recent report from Research and Markets, “Food & Beverage Packaging Innovation,” outlines trends driving the creative evolution of packaging design. Here are the major rules for packaging innovation and convenience to improve the consumer experience.
Convenient and Sustainable packaging
Consumers are demanding more convenient and sustainable product packaging. They want single-serve, re-sealable packages that keep their food fresh and make it easy to carry. They also want containers that can be reused, like plastic bags or biodegradable straws.
As a result, the number of food and beverage products being packaged in reusable or recyclable containers has increased. These containers are easier to reuse than traditional packaging, saving energy in the manufacturing process.
Reducing packaging waste and increasing brand value
The industry’s leading companies are embracing this trend by making bold declarations and commitments to reduce their packaging waste and encourage sustainability in the products they produce. According to the report, these commitments focus on three areas: emphasis on full recyclability and a significantly higher degree of recycled content, reduction of total plastics usage, and innovation and promotion of change in packaging.
These initiatives are not only a win-win for the environment but also for consumers who feel empowered by the move to greener alternatives. In fact, a recent study conducted in the UK, Germany, and China found that the vast majority of respondents define a sustainable package as one that can be recycled, reduces its environmental impact, and reduces its waste.
It should also be designed to be tamper-proof and leak-proof, as well as easy to ship and deliver to the consumer’s doorstep.
More attention toward food safety
Food safety is another issue that must be addressed in the packaging field. New technology is coming to the rescue, including high-tech labels that alert consumers when food has gone bad.
This is the same type of innovation that has been used to combat the counterfeiting of food products. A new radio-frequency identification (RFID) label on packages automatically tracks inventory, allowing companies to monitor stock better and prevent fraud.
These innovations are not just for food and drink; they’re being embraced by cosmetics, health care, home goods, and other products, too. For example, a new packaging material is helping to address the safety issues of edible cannabis products. It features a child-resistant opaque package with a zipper closure with security tabs, which state laws require for the packaging and sale of edible products in the United States.
In a nutshell
As the market grows and packaging changes, it will become more challenging for food manufacturers to meet consumer demands for convenience. Still, it’s a challenge they can successfully overcome with a solid strategy. The best way to ensure success is to take the time to understand what is most important to your customers.