Summer has come early this year, and the increase in temperature means an increase in demand for outdoor eating. It’s a case of “sun’s out, burger bun’s out” for the British public, as BBQs are brushed off, picnic rugs shaken out and folding chairs dusted down.
It also means that things are hotting up for food and beverage businesses, particularly those specialising in spices, seasoning, dips, and spreads. For food companies, choosing the right container is as important as choosing the right ingredients.
Packaging for Summer Foods
Safety takes priority when it comes to food packaging. The right containers help to keep food edible on its journey from factory to fork. There are several key factors to look for when selecting food packaging.
Food Grade: Not all plastic containers are suitable for food, particularly those made from recycled plastic. Food grade containers are identified by the wine glass/ fork logo. Packaging should also be BPA-free, so it will not leach potentially harmful chemicals into the food.
Airtight: Air and moisture can quickly spoil food and shorten its shelf life. Quality packaging that can be properly sealed with well-fitting closures is a must for powdered goods like spices and meat rubs that need to be kept dry.
Fridge/ Freezer Safe: Plastic can become brittle at colder temperatures, so choosing fridge or freezer-safe tubs is important for dips or spreads designed to be stored chilled.
Hot Fill: At the other end of the thermometer, if the production line includes hot-filling, containers must be product-tested for suitability. Thin, cheap containers can bow and melt with heat, compromising their structural integrity.
Tamper Evident: Tamper-evident bands are the industry standard and ensure that goods sealed in production remain sealed until they reach the end user. Tamper tabs also give confidence to the consumer that the contents are safe to eat.
Re-sealable: Foods that are used over a period of time, such as spreads, spices, and sauces, will keep longer when stored in closeable containers. Screw-top jars or tubs with a push-fit lid are convenient for the customer and keep flavours fresh until the next BBQ.
Sustainability: Reusable containers are more sustainable than single-use food packaging. Dishwasher-safe plastic tubs are practical and easy to clean, making them one of the most reused food containers. The final question is how recyclable the packaging is. Monoplastics are the simplest to recycle, so choosing Invopak’s HDPE or PP containers, rather than unrecyclable multi-layered packaging, is a more mindful environmental choice.
Printed Tubs and Buckets for Food
Once all the practicality and safety boxes have been ticked, the next thing to consider is shelf appeal. Food customers make their buying decision with their eyes before their taste buds. Clear tubs and buckets that showcase the product can provide that temptation to purchase. Strong branding is particularly important for food businesses, where brand loyalty and recognition matter. Photographic quality IML printed tubs and buckets can elevate people’s perception of a brand. Unlike paper labels, IML happens at the production stage, the design is embedded in the tub. It is a durable and professional finish that is ideal for food packaging. The right packaging keeps food safe, builds customer confidence and helps businesses build a brand that lasts beyond the sunshine.
