As a business owner in the food industry, you know that one of the most important factors in the success of your product is the quality of your packaging. Not only does it need to protect your food from contamination, but it also needs to be eye-catching and appealing to your target market. With so much riding on your packaging, it’s important to choose a food packaging manufacturer that you can trust. Here are four things to consider when making your decision.
The Importance of food packaging to your business
Before you even begin the process of selecting a food manufacturer, it’s important to understand the importance of food packaging to your business. This will help you realize why it’s essential to invest in high-quality materials and rigorous testing standards.
The importance of food packaging to your business cannot be overstated. It is essential to the success of your business, as it helps to protect your product and ensure that it arrives fresh and unspoiled. Good packaging also makes your product more appealing to customers, which can boost sales and help to grow your business. Investing in high-quality food packaging is an important part of ensuring the success of your business. Additionally, knowing about the trends nowadays can give you an edge when creating the perfect packaging for your product. For example, colored thermal labels are becoming increasingly popular and are often used to distinguish different flavors, create excitement, and make products more eye-catching.
1. Consider your needs
What kind of packaging do you need?
There are many different types of food packaging, and the type you need will depend on the food you are packaging. For example, if you are packaging dry goods like cereal or pasta, you will need a different type of packaging than if you are packaging fresh fruits or vegetables. The type of food packaging you need will also depend on how you are transporting the food. For example, if you are shipping the food, you will need a different type of packaging than if you are selling the food at a farmers market. Packaging for food takeout or delivery will also be different from packaging that is intended to be used in a retail setting. Not to mention, if you are selling your food in a retail setting, you will need packaging that is appealing to the consumer while still serving as protection for the food.
How much packaging do you need?
Not all of the food you produce will need individual packages. If you’re starting a food business and have a large quantity of food to package, then you may want to consider getting a good deal by purchasing larger quantities of the packaging you need. This may seem like a good idea at first, but remember that you will eventually have to dispose of the packaging, and this could end up being more expensive than if you had purchased smaller quantities.
When determining how much packaging you need, remember that not all quantities are equal. Some packaging may come in single-serving sizes, while others may be in bulk-serving sizes. Be sure to understand the weight, or serving size, of the packaging you are buying so you aren’t paying for extra that you won’t use.
What are your time frames?
Depending on the food you are packing, and how you plan to transport or sell it, the food packaging you choose may need to be airtight, waterproof, or extra resistant to help protect the food from outside contaminants. This may add time to the packaging process, so it’s important to consider how this will affect your schedule.
Comparing a few different manufacturers will also help you get through the process faster, especially if a manufacturer has already built a style that fits your needs. Don’t feel like you have to create the packaging from scratch. Using a manufacturer that has a style that fits your needs can save you time and stress.
2. Consider the quality
What kind of materials will be used?
Food safety is the most important factor to consider when choosing food packaging. The packaging you choose should be made from materials that will help keep your food at the proper temperature and free of contaminants.
The packaging should also be handled in a way that doesn’t hurt the taste, appearance, or texture of your food. Your food packaging manufacturer should ensure that the manufacturing process and the material meet all safety and quality standards.
The packaging you choose should also be sustainable. This means it should be made from recyclable, biodegradable, or renewable materials so that it doesn’t add to the amount of waste in the world.
The packaging should also be economical. You want something that helps protect your food and is made with quality materials, but not something that will break the bank. You will probably be using your packaging for several years, so it’s important to find quality that matches your budget.
How durable is the packaging?
The durability of your food packaging is also important. You want something that will last through various conditions. Consider how your packaging will hold up during transport, storage, display, and distribution to customers. Will it protect your food in these conditions?
What kind of printing do they use?
You should also consider whether the food packaging manufacturer uses safe, high-quality inks that won’t adversely affect your food or the packaging. Most manufacturers use ink that’s approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has regulations for approved inks because paint and printing products can contain chemicals that may be harmful. Inks and paint used for food packaging should be free of lead and other toxic chemicals.
3. Consider the price
How much does the packaging cost?
It should be of great quality while remaining reasonably priced. The length of the receipt paper you receive shouldn’t stun you; it shouldn’t be something that is low-quality and cheap and will break easily, but rather something that is high-quality and will last. If you’re just establishing a business, you shouldn’t spend too much on the packaging. Try to choose a manufacturer who provides a high-quality product that satisfies all of your needs while staying within your budget.
Conclusion:
Finding a food packaging manufacturer who can design and produce the packaging you need doesn’t have to be difficult, like how complicated “paper vs. plastic bags pros and cons“, discussions are. Just remember to consider your needs, your budget, and your safety concerns with your food. The more knowledge you have about your product before you start your search, the smoother your experience will be. You may even be able to find a manufacturer who can do mock-ups or prototypes without charging you—just ask! With these tips, you’ll be on your way to finding the right manufacturer for your needs in no time.