Globally, about 44 percent of consumers are more likely to buy from a business with a clear commitment to sustainability, and that number is likely to grow. And for many food brands, that commitment includes not only how your product is sourced and processed but also the packaging it’s shipped and stored in.
In fact, the 2023 Buying Green Report showed that 82% of consumers — particularly Gen Z — are willing to pay more for products in sustainable packaging, despite inflation and increasing prices.
As consumers become more aware of their environmental footprint, the demand for sustainable food packaging is on the rise. Let’s explore the benefits of sustainable, flexible packaging for food and highlight various innovative sustainable packaging options.
Innovative Sustainable Food Packaging Options
Eco-friendly food packaging is made from recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials, including sustainable bioplastics, plant-based extracts, paper, and cardboard.
The choice of material depends on factors like the product being packaged, its intended use, and the overall sustainability goals of the brand or manufacturer. Sustainable packaging solutions aim to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and decrease the environmental impact of packaging throughout its lifecycle.
Bioplastics
Biodegradable plastics, such as PLA (polylactic acid) and PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates), are derived from renewable resources, such as fermented corn and plant starches. These bio-based plastics can break down naturally and have a shorter life cycle, reducing the environmental impact of plastic packaging.
PLA is used in plastic film, bottles, and even shrink-wrap material, giving it a wide range of applications for food and beverage products. Research shows it requires about 65% less energy during production than traditional plastics and 68% fewer greenhouse gasses.
PHA has been used for coffee capsules, straws, bags, and films and continues to find more use cases for food packaging. PHA-based bioplastic has been shown to break down into water and carbon dioxide in 20 to 45 days, compared to 100 to 1,000 years for traditional plastics and plastic bags.
Plants & Fibers
Many sustainable brands are also turning to plants and fibers for their packaging needs. Things like rice paper, seaweed, jute, cotton, bamboo, and hemp offer an innovative and eco-friendly option for certain food products.
For example, mesh bags and baskets can be used for fresh produce. Seaweed and rice paper have also been used for a variety of pouches and other types of packaging throughout the food industry in an effort to eliminate single-use plastics.
Many plant and fiber-based options are reusable and break down easily, making them a great alternative to traditional plastics. Some are even edible.
Reusable Packaging
Reusable packaging systems, such as glass jars, metal tins, and bulk bins, encourage consumers to reduce waste by refilling containers. These systems are gaining traction in zero-waste stores and forward-thinking supermarkets.
Benefits of Sustainable Packaging for Food Brands
Eco-friendly packaging has a long-term impact on the environment and customers’ perception of your brand.
Reduces Environmental Impact
Sustainable food packaging is designed with the environment in mind. Unlike traditional packaging materials, which often end up in landfills or oceans, sustainable packaging is designed to minimize waste and energy consumption. It is often made from recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials, reducing the environmental impact of discarded packaging.
Enhances Brand Reputation
A strong focus on sustainable packaging can enhance a brand’s reputation and customer loyalty, especially under Gen Z.
Companies that embrace sustainable food packaging are seen as responsible and ethical. Consumers today are more likely to support businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Looking at sustainable packaging is especially important if your company makes sustainability a core part of your mission and values. It’s an easy way to put those ideals into practice, along with responsible agricultural practices and environmentally-friendly initiatives.
Saves Resources
Sustainable packaging options often use fewer resources during production. For instance, using recycled materials or lightweight designs reduces the consumption of raw materials and energy to both manufacture the packaging and ship it. Ultimately, this minimizes waste, lowers costs, and lessens the impact on the environment.
Go Green With Castle Pierce
The shift toward sustainable food packaging is a positive and necessary development. By embracing innovative packaging options and responding to consumer demand for sustainability, businesses can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
At Castle Pierce, we’re constantly expanding our eco-friendly packaging options. Contact our team to learn more and discuss if flexible packaging is right for you.
