There are many challenges in the supply chain for food products that require high performing packaging. Food packaging must protect from environmental hazards, maintain freshness, have shelf appeal and be cost effective. These are often contrary requirements, and it can be difficult to navigate the various options in achieving the goal of maximizing consumer sales. 

As food travels from the manufacturer to the retailer, the level of vibration, compression and temperature variations it is subjected to during transportation causes many issues which lead to consumer complaints. During transit, the products are stacked in any number of ways for unpredictable lengths of time while being exposed to different temperatures and humidity levels. Time and weight can affect the package integrity, causing damage to the product.  

The type of food products being shipped will identify which of the shipping risks need to be prioritized in the packaging design. For example, meat products are susceptible to freezer burn, which is a result of excessive freezing and thawing with a loss of moisture. To keep the meat fresh, packaging materials with low moisture permeability can be utilized within the supply chain management to prevent temperature fluctuations through use of freezer trucks or temperature-controlled packages.

Do you have food product packaging concerns that need to be addressed?

Contact Cryopak Testing Center or click below to learn how our package testing services can assist in ensuring the safety of the food products you ship.