Monday, March 24, 2014

Flexible Food Packaging Sees a Surge in Demand

According to an article in Food Production Daily, demand for flexible packaging is expected to reach nearly $100 billion by 2018. Flexible packaging for the pharmaceutical and food sectors are leading the charge, with major brands increasingly making the switch from rigid containers to their flexible, film counterparts.

A trip to the local supermarket will reveal flexible food packaging options in just about every aisle. Take this packaging-type for a test drive and it will be no surprise why. For softer foods that typically require a spoon, flexible pouches offer a more user-friendly alternative than the traditional plastic cup. The new Mott’s Snack & Go applesauce pouch is a perfect example. Whereas before, applesauce either needed to be eaten with a spoon, or else awkwardly drunk straight from the cup, now, customers have an option that’s easier to transport and can be enjoyed with minimal effort and no utensils.

Having the ability to re-seal leftover food in the original bag or container is another appeal of flexible packaging. For products that are not typically eaten during one sitting – like shredded cheese, candy, and other snack items – a zipper-like closure can keep the food fresh for next time. A box, on the other hand, can be difficult to keep closed once opened, and usually cannot re-create an air-tight seal.

Overall, the main driver behind this flexible packaging revolution is convenience. Consumers want food that is easy to transport, eat, and store. Flexible packaging offers all of these benefits and more.

To learn about the bags and other flexible packaging options we’re capable of producing at General Plastic Extrusions, please feel free to visit us online. If you have any questions, we’re always happy to provide an answer, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.