Make sure that the packaging complements the contents. We considered all aspects of what the ideal food package should include and, with that information, we created this useful image that you can use as a guide when coming up with ideas and designs for the thermopackaging of your products. Some things you might not have thought about include whether the package will need ventilation grilles to circulate air (necessary for fruits and vegetables to prevent rotting), resistance to leaks, how the product will be stacked on the shelves, and more. Compare the multiple unpacking experiences that resemble a Russian doll nesting compared to the frustrating packaging of Amazon.
However, cardboard options can sometimes be a cost-effective alternative when considering the expensive tooling costs required for plastic packaging. The packaging must be strong enough to withstand load and resist crushing, and must be able to tolerate low temperature and high humidity environments that are best suited to keeping products fresh. You can also consider what type of packaging will deter others from handling your product before buying it. However, with food packaging, there are other factors that need to be considered when designing a package.
Consider alternative forms of energy and energy efficient equipment when deciding what types of packaging materials are best suited for your business. Therefore, packaging is one of the most important aspects of ensuring that fresh products arrive fresh to the customer. From a graphic design perspective, it is not enough that packaging materials are sustainable, but the design must also have a sustainable aspect. Colorful packaging with information about the producer, the distributor and the nutritional value is becoming a norm.
Another constructive design question: will your packaging be made of aluminum foil, plastic, cardboard or with a multi-material design? Custom-designed packaging boxes typically include a variety of materials. Given the visual standards or durability requirements of certain industries, certain packaging materials can be quite expensive. Every element of the packaging is an opportunity to strengthen your brand, narrate who you are as a company and evoke the desired emotional reaction from your customers. Remember that while some companies are exploring alternative packaging materials made from products such as hemp, sugarcane bagasse, and even vegetables, paper-based commodities (including cardboard and cardboard) are still popular sustainable options.
Instead, brands are turning to a wider range of recyclable materials, and even to multipurpose packaging, or even secondary use packaging.
