Food containers play a crucial role in preserving the nutritional value, texture, taste and freshness of food products from the moment they are packaged to the moment they are consumed. Modern food packaging utilizes various materials and technologies to protect ingredients from harmful contaminants, retain quality over long periods of time and transport foods safely. Let's take a closer look at the key functions, types and innovations in containers.

Functions of Food Packaging

The primary functions that effective food packaging must fulfill include protection, containment, convenience and communication. Packaging serves to protect foods from damage, spillage or contamination from external conditions like dust, moisture, gases, microbes and more over the supply chain. It provides containment by securely holding foods in designated portions and formats. Food Containers Packaging improves convenience for both producers and consumers by allowing for easy storage, handling, display and disposal. Finally, packaging communicates relevant information to users like ingredients, nutrition facts, recipes, disposal instructions and branding.

Types of Containers

There are numerous types of packaging materials utilized for different food categories based on composition, intended shelf life and usage occasions. Some common examples include:

- Plastic containers - Widely used for meats, dairy, dry goods, ready meals and more due to low cost, moldability, durability and moisture/gas barriers. Major types are PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE.

- Glass jars & bottles - Preferred for preserves, condiments, oils, beer and wine due to transparency, recyclability and barrier against air and light. However, heavier weight is a disadvantage.

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