There are scores of packaging materials to choose from, but here are the general categories.
Plastic
One of the biggest misconceptions about plastic packaging is that there is only one kind. Microwaveable containers are made of heat-resistant polypropylene, while CPET containers can withstand extreme cold. Other popular plastics are PET (e.g. drinkable liquids) and polystyrene (e.g. clear take out trays).
Metal
Aluminum and steel are the most common metals used in packaging. Metal gives a good level of protection to food
and is highly recyclable. To inhibit chemical migration and food spoilage, the inside of cans are coated with a lacquer such as epoxy-phenolic. As a complete barrier to light and oxygen, aluminum foil is used for packaging many types of solid food items.
Paper
If paper is used for primary packaging (i.e. it is direct contact with food), it is usually coated or laminated to increase food protection. Other types of paper used are molded fiber (used in fast-food restaurants) and Kraft paper. The thicker paperboard is commonly used as secondary packaging, such as cereal cartons.
Glass
Like metal, glass provides good barrier protection, negligible chemical migration, and is recyclable, though fragility is always a concern. Glass can be colored or frosted, adding more protection against photo-degradation. Here's a bit trivia: In the Philippines, only San Miguel Corp. and Asia Brewery manufacture glass bottles.
Special
Some entrepreneurs exercise their creativity by including natural materials in their packaging for aesthetic purposes. There is also hybrid, flexible packaging like those found in some food and drink pouches and tetra-packs These materials are made of thin layers of metal, plastic and nylon bound together, allowing a greater amount of food protection.
Plastic
One of the biggest misconceptions about plastic packaging is that there is only one kind. Microwaveable containers are made of heat-resistant polypropylene, while CPET containers can withstand extreme cold. Other popular plastics are PET (e.g. drinkable liquids) and polystyrene (e.g. clear take out trays).
Metal
Aluminum and steel are the most common metals used in packaging. Metal gives a good level of protection to food and is highly recyclable. To inhibit chemical migration and food spoilage, the inside of cans are coated with a lacquer such as epoxy-phenolic. As a complete barrier to light and oxygen, aluminum foil is used for packaging many types of solid food items.
Paper
If paper is used for primary packaging (i.e. it is direct contact with food), it is usually coated or laminated to increase food protection. Other types of paper used are molded fiber (used in fast-food restaurants) and Kraft paper. The thicker paperboard is commonly used as secondary packaging, such as cereal cartons.
Glass
Like metal, glass provides good barrier protection, negligible chemical migration, and is recyclable, though fragility is always a concern. Glass can be colored or frosted, adding more protection against photo-degradation. Here's a bit trivia: In the Philippines, only San Miguel Corp. and Asia Brewery manufacture glass bottles.
Special
Some entrepreneurs exercise their creativity by including natural materials in their packaging for aesthetic purposes. There is also hybrid, flexible packaging like those found in some food and drink pouches and tetra-packs These materials are made of thin layers of metal, plastic and nylon bound together, allowing a greater amount of food protection.
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