How can you optimize food packaging in a food technology career?

1 Food packaging functions

Food packaging has four main functions: protection, preservation, information, and marketing. Protection refers to preventing physical, chemical, or biological damage to the food product during handling, transport, and storage. Preservation refers to extending the shelf life and quality of the food product by controlling factors such as moisture, oxygen, temperature, and light. Information refers to providing relevant and accurate data about the food product, such as ingredients, nutrition, origin, and expiration date. Marketing refers to attracting and influencing consumers' attention, preference, and purchase behavior through visual, tactile, and emotional cues.

2 Food packaging materials

Food packaging materials can be classified into three categories: metal, plastic, and paper. Metal packaging includes cans, foils, and trays that are durable, recyclable, and suitable for high-temperature processing. Plastic packaging includes bottles, bags, films, and trays that are versatile, lightweight, and adaptable to different shapes and sizes. Paper packaging includes boxes, cartons, and labels that are biodegradable, renewable, and easy to print on. Food technologists need to understand the properties, performance, and compatibility of different packaging materials and how they affect the food product and the environment.

3 Food packaging technologies

Food packaging technologies are methods or systems that enhance or modify the packaging functions or materials. These can include active packaging, such as oxygen scavengers, moisture absorbers, antimicrobial agents, or freshness indicators; smart packaging, like RFID tags, QR codes, sensors, or thermochromic inks; edible packaging that can be consumed along with the food product or disposed of as food waste, like seaweed, starch, or protein-based films or coatings; and biodegradable packaging that can be decomposed by natural processes or microorganisms, like PLA, PHA, or starch-based plastics or films. All of these technologies have the potential to improve the quality and safety of the food product and provide information to consumers and supply chain stakeholders.

4 Food packaging design

Food packaging design is the process of creating the appearance, structure, and functionality of the food packaging. This involves aspects such as shape and size, which affect its usability, efficiency, and appeal. Additionally, color and graphics are important visual elements that convey identity, message, and emotion. Texture and feel are also important tactile elements that influence perception, comfort, and satisfaction. Finally, opening and closing mechanisms enable access, resealability, and convenience.

6 Food packaging career

Food packaging career is a rewarding and challenging career path that requires a combination of scientific, technical, creative, and business skills. Food packaging professionals work in various sectors, such as food manufacturing, packaging production, research and development, quality assurance, marketing, or consulting. Food packaging professionals need to keep up with the latest trends, regulations, and consumer demands in the food industry and the packaging industry. Food packaging professionals also need to collaborate with other food technologists, engineers, designers, or managers to develop and implement food packaging solutions that are safe, effective, and sustainable.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?