Why packaging is key to food safety, sustainability, and savings

Food waste is a pressing global issue, with nearly one-third of all fresh produce lost before reaching consumers. One major culprit? Inefficient packaging. Proper packaging not only preserves freshness but also plays a critical role in reducing spoilage, improving logistics, and ensuring food reaches consumers in optimal condition. By implementing smarter packaging solutions, the industry can cut down on unnecessary waste while maintaining quality and safety.

Why packaging matters

-Preserves freshness: Packaging helps control moisture loss, ethylene exposure, and spoilage by regulating physiological processes and shielding produce from light and oxygen.

-Protects against contaminants: Acts as a barrier to pests, bacteria, and chemicals. Advanced solutions like modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) further inhibit microbial growth.

-Boosts market appeal: Transparent or attractively designed packaging influences purchasing decisions by showcasing freshness.

-Prevents damage: Provides structural integrity for handling bulk produce while preventing mechanical damage.

-Informs consumers: Labels provide key details like weight, price, variety, and expiration date.

-Improves convenience: Supports ready-to-eat options such as pre-cut fruits and vegetables.

-Supports sustainability: While packaging extends shelf life and improves distribution, its environmental impact must be carefully managed through recyclable and biodegradable materials.

Common packaging types for fresh produce

Packaging varies based on durability, cost, and environmental impact:

-Wooden pallets & bins: Widely used for transport, offering strength and reusability.

-Slipsheets: Lightweight, cost-effective alternatives to traditional pallets.

-Wire-bound crates: Ideal for produce requiring hydrocooling, ensuring durability and ventilation.

-Corrugated fiberboard: Versatile and affordable but requires moisture-resistant treatment.

-Pulp containers: Biodegradable and moisture-absorbing, commonly used for berries and small fruits.

-Paper & mesh bags: Allow air circulation but provide minimal protection.

-Plastic bags & shrink wrap: Help retain moisture but contribute to plastic waste concerns.

-Plastic rigid containers: Protect delicate produce but pose recycling challenges.

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)

MAP enhances freshness by adjusting oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen levels inside the packaging to slow respiration, microbial activity, and dehydration.

How MAP works

-Regulates ripening: Lower oxygen levels slow respiration, delaying spoilage.

-Reduces microbial growth: Higher CO₂ concentrations inhibit bacterial and fungal development.

-Maintains moisture: Acts as a barrier to light while retaining humidity to prevent dehydration.

Potential MAP challenges

-Fermentation risk: Insufficient oxygen or excess CO₂ can trigger spoilage.

-Oxidation issues: Overexposure to oxygen accelerates decay.

-Storage sensitivity: Temperature and humidity must be controlled to maintain effectiveness.

Ensuring MAP effectiveness

Regular monitoring prevents packaging failures:

-Gas analysis: Checking oxygen and CO₂ levels ensures correct atmospheric conditions.

-Seal inspection: Detecting leaks prevents unwanted gas exchange.

-Storage condition monitoring: Controlling temperature and humidity optimizes shelf life.

Felix Instruments provides advanced gas analyzers for real-time quality assessment, ensuring optimal conditions across the supply chain. Want to see the difference for yourself? Request a free trial today!

source: freshknowledge.eu, eagri.org, doi.org

photo: producebusiness.com