As the population grows and the demand for consumer goods increases, plastic continues to be the most popular choice for food packaging due to its versatility and durability.
However, choosing the right plastic material can be difficult because it must reduce the chance of items being damaged and adhere to the latest Food Standards Authority (FSA) regulations. And consumer preferences continue to evolve such as placing an emphasis on environmental protection.
Are you unsure whether you should use plastic additives for food packaging? Here’s a list of factors you should consider.
1. Improve Shelf Life of Food
High-performance plastic additives used in packaging can improve the shelf life of your food. The first advantage of using additives is durability. Plastic containers can protect against damage when properly maintained.
Plastic resilience is a significant benefit when it comes to delivering food. The right plastic can be readily sealed, which locks in freshness, even during long-distance transportation or harsh weather conditions like humidity and extreme temperatures.
2. Reduce the Risks of Contamination
Food products that are oily and contain fatty acids can go rancid if you don’t wrap them properly. Not only does plastic serve as durable packing material, but it can ensure the quality of your food is also maintained. The airtight nature of plastic packaging prevents foodborne contamination.
Not only can plastic additives keep food from going stale, but they ensure food safety since they’re non-toxic. Plastics are made from naturally derived materials, such as cellulose and coal.
3. Multiple Packaging Options
Fortunately, there are a wide range of plastic additives available to meet your various food packaging needs. For example, polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic is a clear but tough plastic commonly used for water bottles and other beverages While, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is the plastic additive of choice for food wrappings and bread bags due to it being soft, flexible, and lightweight.
Advances in manufacturing technology gives you more options than ever for food packaging, while still adhering to the highest safety standards. Overall, plastic additives can be a cost-effective way to protect against food damage and extend freshness.
