The information on food packaging is one of the components of marketing information about the product that influence the opinion of consumers about the product. Packaging of food products plays a vital role in marketing and advertising throughout the distribution chain.
The Main Objectives of the Packaging and Package Labelling
Physical Protection for Products
The food product which is enclosed inside the packaging or package may require protection from bacteria, oxygen, temperature, vibration, compression, etc. In other words, it acts as a barrier from oxygen, water vapor, and dust. While some packaging contains oxygen absorbs to help extend shelf life, modified atmospheres or controlled atmospheres are also maintained in some packaging of food products which help in keeping the content clean, fresh, and safe for the intended shelf life, which is the primary concern in a food processing unit.
Information Transmission
In the food processing unit, packaging of food products is not only important for food protection, but also enables product’s economic handling, transportation, and storage. Furthermore, packaging serves, as it provides valuable information about the products such as its characteristics and the purpose of use.
Marketing and Advertising
In general, packaging is also a form of the food protection as the product sits on store shelves waiting for consumers to come along and purchase it. Well, if we talk about its marketing perspectives, packaging is like the dress on the product which can play a vital role in whether the product sells in a new market. Moreover, it is more than just your product’s pretty face, as it is the wrapping material around it which serves to contain, identify, describe, protect, display, promote, and otherwise make the product marketable and keep it clean.
Safety and Security
To sell a product in the market, you must ensure its safety and security and the only chance that you have of convincing the consumer to purchase it, is through your packaging. The primary purpose of packaging is safety and the protection of the food inside the packages. However, if you do not have the right packaging material then not just your product will remain unprotected, but it is also at the risk of external damage, with the packaging material itself.
Convenience
In contrast with the past, consumers today want conveniently packaged food products which can be quickly made into meals without sacrificing its quality. As for retailers, convenient packaging provides consumers with greater overall product choice.
To know more, read: Packaging Design Trends For 2019