When it comes to food packaging, there are always new trends emerging. Some of these trends are driven by consumer demand, while advances in technology or changes in the marketplace drive others. Either way, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends so you can make sure your packaging is always on point.
How important is food packaging?
Here are some reasons why food packaging matters:
- Safeguards food products. Food packaging helps protect food from contamination. Customers don’t usually eat the food right away after purchasing it. Good food packaging allows customers to store their food for later use. Food shipping is also easier if contamination is prevented. Because packaged foods are more durable, they can be shipped long distances. This makes it easier for the food to be handled during shipping.
- Display significant nutrition and health information. Packaging with nutritional information printed on it allows consumers to learn about the process of making the food, its ingredients, and how to store it. People on a restricted diet may need to know the calorie count and if there are any ingredients or allergens they cannot eat.
- Marketing in-store. In-store marketing is also a big benefit of food packaging. A well-designed, eye-catching food package can increase sales. The last point of contact before a customer makes a purchase is the food packaging.
- Brand awareness. Supermarket shelves can be stocked with hundreds of items, so you need to grab a customer’s attention. For your brand to stand out from others on the same shelf, the packaging is a crucial component. Product packaging is another effective marketing tool. Your customers will remember your brand every time they go to the store because of the packaging’s label, logo, and shape. This packaging increases brand recognition.
Food packaging trends to keep an eye on
1. Taking sustainability into account
Many consumers value sustainability, which is expected to grow in popularity in 2022. Around 83% of consumers believe that sustainability influences their purchasing decisions. To capitalize on this trend, you need to be attentive to sustainable packaging.
This can be achieved by switching to recyclable food packaging. You can switch from plastic to biodegradable materials such as paper and hemp. For example, you can choose disposable paper bowls instead of bowls made of plastic or styrofoam. To save space and material, you can reduce the packaging size.
2. Packaging made possible by technology
Software is consuming the world, and food packaging isn’t far behind. Businesses can now create virtual experiences for customers with the help of technology. Businesses can provide customers with more information about products by using tools such as near-field communication (NFC), QR Codes, and barcodes. NFCs are also useful for things such as tamper protection. Technology can be used to convey information and improve the aesthetics of food packaging.
3. Clear labels and transparent packaging
Food packaging is not excluded from the global virtue of transparency. Clear packaging is the preferred choice by some consumers. Clear packaging can help companies incorporate transparency into their food packaging.
Smart labelling is a way for businesses to go even further. The QR code on thermal printing paper rolls allows companies to place a QR code on the product, which, when scanned using a smartphone, will redirect customers to a page that contains information about the food. This communicates trust and transparency with customers.
4. Customers can feel more connected when the packaging is personalised.
Many consumers believe that businesses lack personality and are abstract. Personalisation can be a great way to change this perception. Personalization is believed to have a significant impact on customers.
It’s not difficult to see why. Your name, or even your face, on a product instantly gives you a connection with it.
5. Portability
People love to move around, and having their food with them is a big plus. This can be achieved by making food packaging more mobile. For example, the food packaging from McDonald’s allowed bikers to transport their burgers and fries in a container that could be attached to their handlebars.
6. Minimalist Design
A minimalist design never goes out of style. When used in food packaging designs, this trend can be advantageous for businesses. Customers shouldn’t be overwhelmed by complicated labels or confusing designs. It would be more appreciated if you only provided the most important information and kept it simple. This will also help you show that your branding is not excessive.
7. Vintage packaging never goes old
It is good to feel nostalgic for a reason. It brings back memories of past times and helps people remember what was possible.
You can attract potential customers by using nostalgia in your food packaging. People will be reminded of their youth. Vintage designs are also a source of wisdom and serenity, so this includes younger people.
It’s possible to get conversations started about your brand by having older people tell stories of the past. This helps to create a community atmosphere that puts your brand at the centre of attention.
8. Colours, gradients, and patterns that are fun
We are primarily visual beings. Only through our eyes can we see the world around us. The first thing that triggers the buying process is sight. Research has shown that customers purchase products within the first half hour of seeing them. To take advantage of this, you need to make a lasting impression on your customers by using playful colours and designs.
If you package your product in a dull, uninteresting colour, no one will notice it. To stand out from the rest, use bold, vibrant colours. Gradients are another design trend. This adds complexity, intrigue, and depth to the packaging of your product.
Takeaway
In conclusion, food packaging is an important part of the food industry. It helps protect food from being damaged or contaminated, and can also help promote product safety and quality. Food packaging should be developed in a manner that is safe, efficient, and consistent with other facets of the food industry as the industry develops.
Alicia Saxon did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
