What is Packaging?

The act of designing and producing the container and wrapper of a product is known
as packaging. It plays a very important role in today's world as packaging can be a reason for the
success or failure of many products. Appropriate containers and wrappers provide protection and
convenience in handling the products. For example, juices, soft drinks, etc., are packed in
containers, milk, oil, etc., are packed in tetra packs; heavy goods like electronic appliances are
packed in boxes, etc.
Packaging refers to the process of designing and producing containers or wrappers for a product,
serving multiple functions including protection, containment, convenience, and marketing. It acts
as a barrier against environmental factors, ensures product safety during transport and storage,
facilitates handling, and enhances the product's appeal to consumers.

Definition:
Packaging is the coordinated system of preparing goods for transport, warehousing, logistics,
sale, and end use. It encompasses all activities involved in designing and producing the container
or wrappe

For a product, aiming to protect it, communicate information, and ultimately, influence consumer
behavior. One cannot transport eggs from a poultry farm to the retailer without packing them in an
egg tray as they might crack even before reaching the final consumer. Similarly, a white shirt
might get stains if transported and sold without packaging, and a retailer might not be able to sell
perishable milk products after a day if there were no Tetra Pak.

The paper, corrugated boxes, plastic films, polybags, and rollbags, etc., that enclose a product have
a lot more value than a customer can imagine.

But what is packaging, why is it important, what are its types and functions?

What Is Packaging?

Packaging is the act of enclosing or protecting the product using a container to aid its distribution,
identification, storage, promotion, and usage.

Packing constitutes all the activities of designing and producing the container for a product.

In simple terms, packaging refers to designing and developing the wrapping material or container
around a product that helps to What is packaging?
 Packaging is an English term often used in Spanish too to represent synonyms
as container or package. However, in the industrial sector, it goes beyond a simple translation.
What does this commonly used word truly entail in our daily routine?

In industrial terms, packaging encompasses a set of techniques and materials strategically

designed to wrap, protect, contain, and present products. It is an integrated solution that plays a
crucial role in various sectors and industries.

Its fundamental purpose is to ensure effective protection throughout the supply chain. From
handling and transportation to storage and distribution, packaging acts as the silent guardian
ensuring the product reaches the customer in perfect condition, free from alterations caused by
impacts or moisture.

From simple plastic bags or bottles to complex tailor-made structures designed to safeguard
delicate parts and machinery, packaging adapts and evolves to be the answer to the specific
demands of each product and sector. These solutions go beyond being mere containers and
become the essence of protection and presentation in the industry.

 Identify and differentiate the product in the market,

 Transport and distribute the product,
 Store the product,
 Promote the product,
 Use the product properly.
 Definition:
 Packaging is the coordinated system of preparing goods for transport, warehousing,
logistics, sale, and end use. It encompasses all activities involved in designing and
producing the container or wrapper for a product, aiming to protect it, communicate
information, and ultimately, influence consumer behavior.

Functions of Packaging:

1. 1. Protection:
Packaging shields the product from physical damage (impact, vibration, compression),
environmental factors (temperature, humidity, light), and contamination (dust, moisture,
insects). It also protects the product from external factors and vice versa.
2. 2. Containment:
Packaging holds the product securely, preventing spillage, leakage, or breakage during
handling and transportation.
3. 3. Convenience:
Packaging makes products easier to handle, store, and use. Features like easy-open or
resealable closures, portion sizes, and ergonomic designs improve user experience.
4. 4. Information Transmission:
Packaging provides essential product information like ingredients, usage instructions,
warnings, and expiration dates. It can also be used for branding, marketing messages, and
promotional offers.
5. 5. Marketing and Sales:
Packaging plays a crucial role in attracting consumers' attention and influencing purchase
decisions. Effective packaging design can make a product stand out on the shelf, communicate
its value, and create a positive brand image.
6. 6. Tamper-Resistance:
Packaging can include features that indicate if the product has been opened or tampered with,
ensuring consumer safety and product integrity.
7. 7. Logistics and Distribution:
Packaging facilitates efficient handling, storage, and transportation of products throughout the
supply chain.
Packaging refers to the process of designing and producing containers or wrappers for a product,
serving multiple functions including protection, containment, convenience, and marketing. It acts
as a barrier against environmental factors, ensures product safety during transport and storage,
facilitates handling, and enhances the product's appeal to consumers.

Functions of Packaging:

1. 1. Protection:
Packaging shields the product from physical damage (impact, vibration, compression),
environmental factors (temperature, humidity, light), and contamination (dust, moisture,
insects). It also protects the product from external factors and vice versa.
2. 2. Containment:
Packaging holds the product securely, preventing spillage, leakage, or breakage during
handling and transportation.
3. 3. Convenience:
Packaging makes products easier to handle, store, and use. Features like easy-open or
resealable closures, portion sizes, and ergonomic designs improve user experience.
4. 4. Information Transmission:
 Packaging provides essential product information like ingredients, usage instructions,
warnings, and expiration dates. It can also be used for branding, marketing messages, and
promotional offers.

5. 5. Marketing and Sales:

Packaging plays a crucial role in attracting consumers' attention and influencing purchase
decisions. Effective packaging design can make a product stand out on the shelf, communicate
its value, and create a positive brand image.
6. 6. Tamper-Resistance:
Packaging can include features that indicate if the product has been opened or tampered with,
ensuring consumer safety and product integrity.
7. 7. Logistics and Distribution:

Importance Of Packaging

Often considered as an essential marketing subset, packaging forms the core distribution, storage,
and sales tool that can be a part of the product itself or an external container made of varied
materials.

Packaging is an essential element both for the seller and the customer. While the seller use it as a
tool to distribute, store, and promote; the customer uses it as an important identification and usage
tool.

Importance Of Packaging For The Seller

 Distribution: Good packaging makes it possible for the seller to transport the product from the
manufacturing unit to the final selling point and then to the customer. The seller uses different
packaging for the same – transport packaging to transport the products and consumer packaging to
aid the consumer in consuming the product.
 Storage: Warehousing comes with its own risks of product spoilage, spillage, and mishandling.
Proper packaging helps the seller store and assort the products better.
 Promotion: Packaging forms a vital marketing element that the brand uses to differentiate the
product using attractive, colourful, and visually appealing packages and inform the buyer about the
product’s performance, features, and benefits.
 Safety: Good packaging aids in product safety before it reaches the final consumer. For example, a
Tetra Pak prevents the milk from getting spoilt before its expiry date.

Importance Of Packaging For The Buyer

 Identification: Packaging and labelling help the customers identify the product and differentiate it
from other products in the market.
  Usage: Often, packaging, like that of a toothpaste, that forms a part of the product aids in its usage
and consumption.
 Safety: It also protects the consumer from the dangers that the product comes with. For example,
an acid bottle protects the user from getting acid burns.

Functions Of Packaging

Packaging plays a crucial role from the time a product is developed to the time a product is fully
consumed. These functions of packaging include:

1. Contains the product: Most products need to be contained either during transportation, storage, or
consumption. Packaging makes sure the product is contained as and when required.
2. Protects the product: Packaging protects the product and its quality, features, utility, etc. from
being damaged or contaminated during transportation, storage, and consumption.
3. Aids product handling and usage: Proper packaging aids product handling and makes it easy to
transport, ship, and even use the product.
4. Differentiates the product and makes it stand out: Packaging makes it easier for the customer to
identify and differentiate it from other products. Moreover, attractive packages have a property to
stand out and attract customers towards it.
5. Forms a part of product marketing strategy: An attractive and/or informative package makes
the product stand out and have a promotional appeal. Packaging also acts as the final touchpoint
that helps in product promotion and sale.
6. Provides customer convenience: Packaging is also a convenience tool that makes it convenient
for the customer to carry, transport, and use the product.
7. Acts as a communication medium: Packaging along with labelling helps communicate the brand
identity, brand message, and product and company information to the customer.
8. Adds to the aesthetic value: Packaging can make a simple product look attractive or a unique
product look ordinary. It’s an important aesthetic touchpoint that can make or break a sale.

Difference Between Packing And Packaging

While considered as same, packing and packaging are not something that one can use
interchangeably. Packing is a subset of packaging that refers to wrapping up the product and
containing it in a case or wrapper to protect it and aid in handling.

On the other hand, packaging is the process of designing and developing the container of the
offering that protects it and helps customers identify and differentiate in the market.

In simple terms, packing just involves wrapping the product, while packaging also consists of the
branding aspect.

Basis Packing Packaging

Meaning Packing is a subset of packaging where a Packaging is a subset of marketing where a brand designs and
product is contained within a wrapper or a develops the wrapper or container to aid its transport,
Basis Packing Packaging

container to aid its transport, handling, and handling, delivery, and communicate the brand and product
delivery. information by making it look attractive.

To facilitate safety and aid product storage To facilitate safety, increase product appeal, and communicate
Objective
and transportation. brand and product information.

Packaging Advantages

Packaging comes with its own set of advantages. These are:

 It protects the product from any physical harm and damage.

 It helps increasing sales as it adds to the aesthetic value of the product.
 It keeps the product hygiene by preventing adulteration and hampering.
 Some specialised packaging also prevents the products from going bad.

Packaging Disadvantages

While packaging forms an important element of a product, it comes with its own disadvantages.
These are:

 Packaging can be deceptive and may trick the customer into getting a wrong perception of the
product.
 It adds to the cost. Packaging can add to the cost of the product, which the customer eventually
bears.
 It adds to the waste that can turn hazardous, especially if it is plastic.

Packaging guide: functions, types, and strategies

Packaging guide: functions, types, and strategies

The term “packaging” is likely familiar, yet you may not have delved into all its dimensions if
you’re not immersed in it daily. Let’s delve into the intriguing universe of packaging, a
component that goes beyond its apparent function.

Whether you’re in charge of purchasing packaging materials, responsible for product handling,
or involved in logistics, a comprehensive understanding of different packaging types and their
functions is crucial.

At Inviker, we acknowledge that packaging is more than just a protective layer. It’s the first
tangible encounter customers have with your product. In this guide, we’ll explore the
fundamental functions and types of packaging, revealing why opting for custom packaging can
make a difference in an increasingly competitive industrial market.
This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions in your packaging material
purchases and optimise planning processes while reducing costs.

Function of packaging

Packaging, in its origins, emerged as a response to the fundamental need to protect and
transport products, evolving over time to become a crucial distinguishing element for
businesses.

In the present day, packaging not only ensures physical protection against potential damages,
effective containment during handling, and facilitation of transportation. It is also a
powerful marketing tool, playing a significant role in brand communication and the visual
presentation of products.

Beyond being a simple wrapper, packaging plays a vital role in brand communication and visual
presentation. Moreover, it becomes a valuable informational channel by incorporating essential
details such as usage instructions, safety data, and detailed descriptions of the contents.

Next, we will explore in detail the three main functions of packaging, revealing how it becomes a
strategic tool in the value chain of any product.

PROTECTING PRODUCTS THROUGHOUT THE JOURNEY

The primary function of industrial packaging is to protect and preserve the product throughout
its journey. This strategic component acts as an infallible guardian, ensuring that the goods arrive
in optimal condition and without damage.

Packaging is essential to mitigate mechanical and environmental risks that could compromise
the product’s quality during transportation. Each layer of packaging is precisely designed, acting
as a shield against any potential threat and thereby ensuring quality and customer satisfaction.

CONTAINING AND FACILITATING HANDLING

Another essential function of packaging is the effective containment of the product to

facilitate its transportation. This role involves the comprehensive preservation of products
from the moment they are stored until reaching their destination.
When a product is stored or packed in a specific container before its transfer, the packaging must
be designed to ensure the comprehensive preservation of all the product’s properties during
shipment. This involves specific treatments and features tailored to the unique needs of each
product, ensuring it arrives in optimal condition.

COMMUNICATING AND INFORMING CUSTOMERS

Beyond mere containment, packaging becomes the visual messenger that communicates and
informs customers. From product identification to the transmission of relevant information about
its features, properties, and benefits, packaging serves as the product’s introduction to the
customer.

This strategic component not only conveys the visual identity of the company but also
facilitates brand recognition in a competitive market. Even in the industrial realm, where the
customer is often another production facility or warehouse, underestimating the importance of
visual presentation and communication in packaging could mean missing opportunities to stand
out in an increasingly competitive environment.

At Inviker, we recognize that each package is an opportunity to stand out and communicate
the quality and commitment of our products.

Types of packaging

Understanding the typology of packaging is essential for selecting the appropriate material and
format, providing crucial information for any professional immersed in the world of packaging.

The diversity of terms such as packaging, wrapping, and packing often intertwine, but each has
its own essence and function within a specific context. Various packaging categories, marked by
specific functions and purposes, shape the fundamental phases of how a product is presented and
protected throughout its lifecycle.

Next, we will delve into each level of packaging in detail, exploring their functions and scope to
provide insight into the crucial role they play in the supply chain.

PRIMARY PACKAGING

Primary packaging, also known as the container or consumer unit, constitutes the first line of
interaction between the product and the customer. This type of packaging has direct contact
with the product itself and plays a crucial role in the presentation, protection, and functionality
of the product.

Its main mission is to maintain the product in optimal condition from the moment it is
introduced until its removal.

To achieve this, primary packaging performs various functions:

 Product identification: the primary container serves as an introduction, clearly

identifying the product. It is used to highlight the visual identity of the product and the
brand.
 Relevant information: from usage guidelines to recycling data and expiration dates,
primary packaging communicates crucial information to the consumer.
 Containment and preservation: using specific materials adapted to each type of
product, primary packaging ensures the optimal preservation of the content, guaranteeing
its integrity during transportation and facilitating its handling.
 Initial protection: it acts as a protective shield against external factors that could affect
the product’s quality, such as impacts, moisture, or contamination.

In the industrial context, primary packaging not only fulfils these fundamental functions but can
also incorporate specialised treatments, such as VCI (volatile corrosion inhibitor) technology,
as seen in anticorrosion bags with VCI.

These industrial packaging solutions from Inviker ensure that delicate products and industrial
machinery reach their destination in perfect condition. Usually, packaging can be categorised into
three types depending upon its usage and purpose. These types are:

Primary Packaging

Primary packaging, also referred to as consumer packaging, is in direct contact with the product
and is intended for the customer to identify, gain product knowledge, and to aid product
consumption.

It’s the base packaging that emphasises both utility and appearance.

It is the primary layer like the plastic pouch, cardboard box, etc. containing the finished product,
that protects and preserves the finished product from contamination and tampering, while including
aesthetic elements that make the product stand out.

Besides aiding identification, differentiation, and consumption, primary packaging also acts as a
promotional tool to attract more customers at the point of sale by making the product look more
appealing.

Some examples of primary packaging are:

 Laminated pouches for dry fruits
 Plastic containers for fruits
 Tin cans for soft drinks
 Laminated tubes for beauty products
 Composite cans for chips

Often, removing the primary packaging of a product affects the product’s quality or attribute.

SECONDARY PACKAGING

Secondary packaging, also known as packing or stock keeping unit (SKU), constitutes the
second layer of protection for products, providing an additional dimension of protection and
practicality in handling and transportation.

Its main function lies in grouping and protecting one or more primary containers, thereby
enhancing safety and stability during storage and transportation. This type of packaging becomes
a strategic ally, facilitating logistics and optimising space in warehouses and points of sale.

The key functions of secondary packaging are:

 Containment and grouping: secondary packaging brings together and protects several
primary containers, facilitating the efficient handling and transportation of multiple units.
 Protection during handling: reinforcing the structure of the primary packaging,
secondary packaging protects against impacts and adverse conditions, ensuring that
products arrive in optimal condition.
 Product identification: although less direct than primary packaging, secondary packaging
can carry identification elements, such as barcodes or visual information, facilitating the
management and location of products in logistics environments.

Depending on the sector, product characteristics, and customer preferences, secondary packaging
can vary in aesthetics and materials. From cardboard boxes to plastic containers, secondary
packaging often becomes a visual extension of the brand. Its design seeks harmony between
protection and logistical efficiency. Secondary Packaging

Secondary packaging forms the second packaging layer that the customers don’t usually see. Its
main use is to group and hold together individual units of the product to deliver large quantities of
that product to the point of sale.
 It collates smaller product units into a single pack and aids in inventory management (grouping and
identification) before the product is showcased to the customer.

Some examples of secondary packaging are:

 Plastic ring that holds soda cans together, and

 Cardboard box containing multiple individual boxes of cereal, etc.

Removing secondary packaging doesn’t affect the product’s quality or attributes.

TERTIARY PACKAGING

Tertiary packaging plays a pivotal role in the efficient transportation of large product
volumes. This packaging level groups and protects secondary packaging, enabling safe handling
and movement throughout all stages of the supply chain.

Key functions of tertiary packaging include:

 Containing and grouping secondary packaging: tertiary packaging acts as a robust wrap
that houses and secures multiple secondary packages, facilitating the management of
large quantities of products.
 Providing protection through durable and resistant materials: designed with sturdy
materials, tertiary packaging ensures the integrity of products during transportation, even
in challenging logistical conditions.

Optimising space and logistical efficiency: by consolidating multiple secondary packages into
a manageable unit, tertiary packaging aims to minimise the space required for storage and
transportation, contributing to operational efficiency.

Tertiary Packaging

Tertiary packaging, also referred to as bulk or transit packaging, is used to group a large quantity of
a particular product to transport it from point A to B.

The main objective of this packaging is to make it easier to transport heavy loads or large
quantities of a product easily and securely, while facilitating easy storage and handling.

Some examples of tertiary packaging are:

 Wooden pallets used in freight shipping
 A stretch-wrapped pallet containing a large quantity of secondary packaged goods.

Common forms of tertiary packaging include wooden pallets, plastic pallets, or boxes
specifically designed for large product volumes. This packaging level not only safeguards
merchandise from potential damage but also enhances logistical management by facilitating
loading and unloading in warehouses and transport vehicles.

Recommendations for choosing custom packaging

Custom packaging is not merely a logistical tool. It’s a necessity for companies aiming to stand
out in a competitive market.

The thoughtful selection of packaging type and materials used directly influences operational
efficiency. Every component of packaging, from format to labelling, plays a crucial role in the
overall customer experience and process optimisation.

Customising packaging is an integral part of the marketing strategy and can make a significant
difference in brand perception.

We are offering key recommendations for choosing the perfect custom industrial packaging.

1. Analyse product needs

Before embarking on creating custom packaging, it’s crucial to understand your product’s
specific requirements. Consider its size, shape, fragility, and any special requirements to ensure
optimal protection.

2. Identify critical points in the supply chain

Examine your product’s supply chain thoroughly. Identify points where packaging plays a
crucial role, whether during transportation, storage, or handling. Custom packaging should
address the specific demands of each stage.

Consider specific storage or transportation conditions, such as stacking, height, or weight

restrictions. Packaging designed to fit these conditions will not only better protect the product
but also optimise logistics.

3. Incorporate visual identity elements

Packaging should not only be functional but also a visual extension of your brand. Seize the
opportunity to incorporate visual identity elements, such as corporate colours, logos, and
brand messages. This reinforces brand presence and creates a memorable experience for the
customer.

In B2C, where visual presentation is crucial, primary and secondary packaging should be
visually appealing.

In the industrial and B2B sectors, the priority is often product safety and protection. While not
mutually exclusive, customisation can balance both aspects.

4. Evaluate long-term costs

Although customisation may have higher initial costs, assess the overall long-term picture.
Packaging that fits your products perfectly can reduce shipping costs, minimise damage
during transportation, and optimise storage space, resulting in significant savings over time.

The quality of the packaging material is crucial. Invest in durable and resistant materials that
offer the necessary protection. Quality packaging not only protects your product but also reflects
your brand’s quality.

5. Test and refine

Before launching custom packaging on a large scale, conduct thorough testing. Evaluate its
performance under different transportation and storage conditions. Adjust the packaging
strategy as the product progresses through the supply chain, ensuring maximum efficiency and
protection.

6. Stay updated with trends

The packaging industry evolves constantly. Stay abreast of the latest trends and technological
advancements. Incorporating innovative features can make your packaging stand out and
remain relevant in the market.

Sustainability is a growing concern in today’s world. Consider packaging options that are
environmentally friendly. Customers increasingly value sustainable practices, and eco-friendly
packaging can be a positive differentiator for your brand.

By following these recommendations, you’ll be better equipped to choose and design custom
packaging that not only meets practical requirements but also adds value to your product and
strengthens your brand’s position in the market.

And it’s not just about visual customization. Custom packaging involves manipulating and
adjusting various packaging materials to the exact measurements of the products. Therefore,
smart choices in custom packaging can be the key to success in an increasingly competitive
business world.
In summary, packaging must not only fulfil its primary protective function but also serve as a
valuable tool for your brand’s visual narrative. From protection to an attractive
presentation, each layer of packaging plays a strategic role.

Bespoke customisation emerges as a vital component in the highly competitive market, making
a clear difference in customer perception. Reduced waste, easy product identification, and
increased brand recognition are just a few tangible benefits of applying this strategy.

By following our recommendations, you can design exceptional packaging that meets basic
protection and containment functions while serving as an effective communication medium.
Evaluating long-term costs, conducting thorough tests, and staying abreast of trends, including
sustainable options, are crucial steps in this process.

Table of Content
 Levels of Packaging
 Importance of Packaging
 Functions of Packaging
Levels of Packaging
Usually, three different levels of packaging are found in products:
1. Primary Package: Primary packages are immediate packaging of a product. Sometimes
primary package remains till the inside material of the product is used as in the case of
toothpaste, body wash, etc. In other cases, the package remains till the consumer is ready to use
the product as in the case of bathing soap.
2. Secondary Packaging: The additional package that provides an additional layer of protection
to the product is termed as Secondary package. For example, a cardboard box of a toothpaste
tube. The secondary package is generally discarded when the customer starts using the inside
material from the primary package.
3. Transportation Packaging: Further packaging which is essential for the protection of the
product during transportation and storage is termed transportation packaging. Such packaging
contains a number of secondary packaging. For example, a corrugated box containing 20, 50 or
100 units of toothpaste.
Importance of Packaging
Packaging is important because of the following reasons:
1. Rising Standards of Health and Sanitation: As the standard of living has increased, people
now have become more conscious about health and sanitation. Now, they prefer packed goods
over loose goods as there are less chances of adulteration and contamination in packed products.
2. Self-service Outlets: Self-service outlets are becoming very popular these days. Buyers are
more influenced by the products sold at these outlets because of their attractive packaging.
Attractive packaging attracts higher sales.
3. Innovational Opportunity: There have been significant changes in the marketing scene
because of development and innovation in packaging. For example, milk and fruit juices can be
stored for a longer period of time because of tetra packs.
4. Product Differentiation: Products can be easily differentiated from other products because of
packaging, as packaging creates a brand image. The colour, size, material, etc., of the package,
create a real difference in the minds of the consumers about the quality of the product. For
example, from the package of food, drinks, etc., people can guess about the quality of the
product.
Functions of Packaging
The important functions of packaging are as follows:
1. Product Identification: Identification of products becomes easy because of packaging. For
example, Nestle Maggi can be easily identified from its packaging. Because of this reason,
manufacturers use attractive packages, so that users can remember and identify their products.
2. Product Protection: Products are protected from damage and deterioration during
transportation, storage and distribution with the help of packaging. Goods are also protected
against breakage, leakage, spoilage, pilferage, climatic effects like moisture or humidity, etc.,
because of packaging. For example, zip lock packets are used to protect snacks, dry fruits, etc.
from moisture and other kinds of damage.
3. Facilitating Use of the Product: Packaging should be convenient to use and handle. It should
be easy to open and close and should fit well into the cupboard, drawer, refrigerator, etc. For
example, glass bottles of Nestle or Bru coffee are convenient to store.
4. Product Promotion: Packaging helps in the promotion of products as it acts as a silent
salesman, and thus, increases sales. It makes the product attractive and induces consumers to buy
it. Packaged goods are suitable for self-service stores.
ifferent Types of Packaging Products [A Complete Guide]
April 25, 2024
17
min read

The packaging industry uses a wide range of raw materials as well as printing technologies to
produce packages that not only just look good, but also helps us keep the actual product well
secured.

Packaging comes in different forms, and each type has its own applications, its own pros, and
cons. If one had to break down the plethora of packaging products and segregate them into
various categories, here’s how the major packaging products will be segregated:
Primary Packaging

Primary packaging basically consists of products that directly come in contact with the actual
product- food, accessories, clothing, gadgets. This section consists of all the packaging products
included in retail packaging, food packaging, as well as void fill options, that end users have
seen and used.

Laminated Pouches
Laminated pouches are bags made from polymer sheets or metallized plastic sheets that have an
extra layer of laminating plastic on top of them. These pouches provide extra durability when
compared to regular plastic bags. They are available in multiple forms, such as zip pouches,
stand up pouches, or as regular mailers. Laminated pouches are also highly customizable as the
inner layer can be printed in full colour. The external lamination also ensures that the print does
not wear easily, making them ideal for retail packaging of goods.

Plastic Containers
Plastic containers
Plastic containers include a wide range of containers made from high-density polyethene.
Plastic containers include everything from plastic bottles, to disposable food containers, to
reusable containers. These containers are widely used because they are cheap, resistant to
chemical corrosion, physical wear and tear, and is also recyclable and reusable. Plastic containers
can be bulk produced by injection moulding. These containers are very commonly used for food
packaging, packaging medicine, oil and lubricants, chemicals, and beverages.

Thermoformed Products
Thermoforming is a process in which plastic sheets are heated to a temperature where they
become soft and can be moulded or trimmed easily. A heated plastic is first stamped into shape
and then the individual stamped pieces are trimmed. Plastics that are used in the thermoforming
process are called thermoplastics. Thermoformed products include plastic containers, such as
meat trays, egg trays, disposable food containers and blister packaging.

Tin Can
Tin cans are one of the most common packaging solutions that can hold diverse contents. Tin
cans have been in use for a very long time. Tin cans replaced glass containers before plastic
containers became easily available. Tin cans are still used today in a large number of areas.
However, use of tin cans for packing food has been reduced. Tin cans used for packaging of soft
drinks are laminated on the inside with a plastic sheet as tin corrodes when it comes in contact
with acid. Tin is still used in packing aerosol sprays such as insect repellants, lubricants, or
perfumes. Lighter fluids and other oils often come packed in tin containers. Dry food such as
cake, biscuits, health drink mixes, tea leaves, or coffee beans come packaged in tin cans as the
health risk in these cases is not there. Tin cans can be recycled easily and are more eco-friendly
than plastic as tin is also biodegradable.

Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is a cellulose-based paper that is commonly used in baking. This is also known
as baking paper or bakery paper. Parchment paper is manufactured using a process that is similar
to tracing paper. Modern parchment paper is made from paper pulp processed using sulphuric
acid. Parchment paper has high density, heat resistance and non-stick properties. Parchment
paper eliminates the need to grease sheet pans and thereby allowing batches of baked good to be
turned around very quickly. Parchment paper is also used in other cooking processes that involve
steaming the food in pouches of parchment paper.

Wet-Strength Paper
The wet strength of the paper is how much resistance the paper is to rupturing once the paper is
wet. Wet strength paper is a type of paper that has high resistance to being ruptured or torn when
it is wet. Wet strength paper can be printed and customized just like normal Kraft paper, is
biodegradable, and provides a varying degree of wet strength. Wet strength paper is commonly
used to make lawn and leaf bags that are ideal for disposing of yard waste.

Laminated Tubes / Lamitubes

Lamitubes or laminated tubes are tube packaging that is used to pack pastes. Lamitubes have
multiple layers of plastics, is heat sealable and provides long-term barrier packaging. Lamitubes
may also be metallized. It also has gas barrier properties, has resistance to oil and grease.
Lamitubes are excellent for packaging of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products that come in the
form of paste such as toothpaste and topical ointments. They are also used in packaging
adhesives.

Monocartons
Monocartons are simple boxes that are made from paperboards. Mono cartons are often used as
retail boxes as they can be easily printed, laminated and customized. They also offer protection
from minor splashes, drops and bumps.

Retort Pouches
Retort pouches is a type of food packaging that is made from metallized plastics. Metal foils are
laminated using plastics that offer the rigidity of metals as well as the corrosion resistance of
plastics. These provide sterile food packaging that is an alternative to tin cans. Retort pouches
are used to pack high caloric, fully cooked, frozen MREs (Meals, Ready to Eat). Retort pouches
can withstand high temperatures and the food can be cooked right inside the pouch with the
package sealed. Retort pouches are also used to pack other raw food items. Some variants of
retort pouches have a bottom gusset and are called a stand-up retort pouch.

Paper-Foil Laminate

Image Courtesy: IndiaMART

Paper-foil laminate is paper laminated with aluminium foil. The paper and the foil has
complimentary properties that make the paper foil laminate a durable and low-cost packaging
material. This metallized paper is often used to make paper plates, recyclable food packaging,
wrappers for chocolates and other food products. Paper foil laminates are also laminated with
plastic layers to improve their barrier properties and to improve the wet strength of the sheets.
These make stronger pouches for wet food products, such as sauces and pickles.

Composite Cans
Composite cans are made from multiple layers that provide it rigidity and certain barrier
properties. Composite cans are made from paper, paper boards, aluminium foils and plastic
laminates. This makes them ideal for food packaging. The packaging used for Pringles are
composite cans. Other similar dry food items, such as biscuits, health drink malts, and tea leaves
are packed using composite cans too. Composite cans are used as an exterior protective covering
for glass bottles containing drinks.

Glass Containers
Glass containers are the oldest storage containers that are still used today. Glass bottles are
widely used to pack carbonated drinks, juices, alcoholic drinks, and also milk. Glass can be
recycled and sterilized with ease. Glass is also highly resistant to corrosion. This makes glass
containers ideal for storing chemicals in laboratories. Glass containers such as major jars are
used in retail packaging of jam, jelly, pickles and sauces – food that is acidic in nature and can
corrode other materials over prolonged exposure.

Shrink Wrap

Shrink wrap is a polymer plastic that wraps tightly around whatever it is covering when heat is
applied. Shrink wrapping is used as an overwrap to protect the retail packaging or to bundle
multiple packages. Packages such as bottles are commonly bundled together into a multi-pack
using shrink wrap. Books, DVD or CD covers, boxes, beverage cans, cartons are covered using
shrink wrap for tamper resistance. Shrink wrap is also used on larger scales to temporarily repair
damaged roofing. Small vehicles such as cars, boats or helicopters are covered in shrink wrap
when they are being shipped to prevent any scratches on the paint.

Cling Film
Cling Film or plastic wrap is used to wrap food and plastic containers to keep perishables fresher
for a longer period of time. Cling film is used widely in bakeries to wrap bread and related food
products. Cling films prevent exposure to air and moisture thereby preventing the formation of
moulds on food. Plastic containers are also wrapped using cling film to secure it. Cling films also
have medical uses. Cling films are used to wrap premature babies immediately after birth to
prevent a rapid change in temperature before they arrive at neonatal intensive care unit.