9 Reasons You Should Use Flexible Packaging for Food Items

Flexible packaging has been at the forefront of packaging innovation in many industries. And there are good reasons for its continued success and popularity in the food industry. Every industry faces its difficulties, and as a food manufacturer, you might wonder what the benefits of using flexible packaging for your food products are. The good news is that there are nine key reasons you should consider switching to flexible packaging today. 

Explore why this innovative packaging style has gained so much traction over the years. 

1. Greener is Better 

Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and they want to know the products they purchase helps save the environment. Flexible packaging minimizes waste by utilizing the fewest materials possible to package a food product. The packages are also recyclable, promoting a more sustainable option for both the manufacturer and the consumer. Everyone can breathe easier with the smaller carbon footprint. 

2. Extends Food Life 

Flexible packaging extends food life, which is just one reason these seven companies use it for their food packaging. The packaging protects food from environmental factors, such as temperature, light, and moisture. Food producers can also add valuable features like a zipper to help consumers. 

3. Space-Saving Advantages

Recent developments in flexible materials have decreased the weight of many flexible packages considerably. And flexible packaging compared to conventional packaging takes up much less space. That means that food manufacturers can transport more products for less fuel and energy consumption. Everybody wins. 

4. Decreased Manufacturing Costs 

The flexible film used to create the elastic-like packaging can be adjusted to the exact size of the product needed. Because of that, food producers can use only the materials they need and significantly reduce waste. 

Besides, you can streamline the process. That is because flexible packaging does not require the many components used in capping and labeling needed for other packaging methods. 

5. Limitless Design Alternatives 

All bets are off when it comes to packaging design and creativity to tempt shoppers. You can employ high-end graphics, visionary branding that consumers recognize from the aisles, and thorough product information. Flexible packaging also lends itself to improved glossiness, clarity, and printability. 

Here is where intrepid designers can play with colorways that speak to consumers’ emotions and appeal to them at different stages in their consumer journey or indifferent lifestyles. 

There are opportunities to create food product packages in virtually any size or shape as well. Unique designs and prints guarantee that your food will have shelf appeal and end up in consumers’ carts.

6. Food Safety is Second to None 

Every food manufacturer knows the damage that a recall or a safety concern can do to your company’s credibility. And packaging design plays an integral role in food safety. Greasy, fatty, or liquid-based foods tend to leach chemicals from packaging due to their makeup. Thankfully, the likelihood for chemical filtering decreases with certain materials like the films used in flexible packaging and food safety is maintained.

7. Provide a Top-Notch Consumer Experience

In addition to the increased benefit to food manufacturers, flexible packaging gives consumers an excellent experience for their dollar. The flexible packaging is easily stored in their pantry and is often resealable, cutting down on food waste in the form of stale food. 

Also, flexible packaging can be made into small single-serve packages that are perfect for outings or traveling. That’s not even mentioning that flexible-film packages are easier to open and just about frustration-free. Consumers will appreciate the improved functionality. 

8. Product Transparency and Clarity  

Food safety is vitally important. But a manufacturer can’t be standing in a consumer’s kitchen, telling them how to prepare, store, and eat the food item. That is why the flat canvas of the flexible food packaging is the perfect space to relate any pertinent information to the consumer.  

This tells the consumer that you care about their wellbeing. And they will understand that you stand behind your product 100%. It also protects a producer in the event of an issue. No one likes lawsuits or bad press, and if it can be avoided with disclaimers and detailed instructions, everyone will rest easier. 

9. Unparalleled Cost Savings 

The clean lines of flexible food packaging offer a greater ratio of product to package and come with the additional benefit of optimizing your packaging process. 

Better utilization of packaging means reduced production and materials costs. That coupled with the savings you will see from transportation and shipping expenses, means all-around cost savings. 

You might be anxious to get started. Take a look at this quickstart guide. We are always here to help. 

A Quickstart Guide

• Decide whether you want roll stock or a pouch (here is a “How To”).
  
• Figure out the size you need. 
• Upload your winning graphics for your and print file. 
• Tell us the required quantity. 
• Tell us the date and the shipping facility.
• Love your flexible food packaging!

There is still a place for traditional, rigid packaging. That will always be the case. But, there are so many different food sectors that can benefit from flexible packaging. Making over your product packaging can help your product attract new consumers and add value for existing consumers. Many companies are using the power of creative flexible packaging to highlight their product and branding. Yours can be the next.