Over the years, food packaging materials and processes have changed a lot. In recent years, there have been many exciting developments in the packaging industry, along with a wide range of technical advances in packaging machinery and automation. Most notably, there has been a growing switch to flexible packaging and a growing demand for sustainable packaging materials as consumers look to reduce their environmental impact. 

What trends can we expect for the food packaging industry in 2023? 

The growth of food packaging automation

Packaging automation has been a hot topic in the food industry for a number of years now, and this year will be no different. With food packaging companies facing a wide range of financial challenges, for example, increased ingredient costs and rising energy bills, finding ways to optimise the efficiency of food packaging and maximise output is extremely important. As a result, companies of various sizes are seeking to partially or completely automate their food packaging lines.

In addition to reducing labour costs, speeding up packaging times, automated packaging machinery also has a wide range of other benefits for food products, for example, packaging machinery helps to reduce the risk of the contamination of food by reducing human contact. Automated sealing processes also help increase the shelf life of food products, preventing the ingress of oxygen and other contaminants.

Automated machinery ensures that a wide range of foodstuffs can be weighed accurately to ensure pouches, bags and other packaging materials are filled with the precise volume.

Continued demand for flexible packaging

In recent years, there has been a considerable move away from rigid packaging to more flexible packaging solutions, such as polymer pouches, doypacks, sachets and flow wrap. Flexible packaging helps to reduce packaging weight and size, making it easier to transport, store and display food products on shelves.

Flexible packaging is also a convenient option for consumers, particularly with a wide range of resealing options available on packaging such as flexible pouches. With people choosing to eat on the go and carry snacks, flexible pouches are a perfect solution to carry in a bag, or even a pocket.

Demand for more packaging sizes and shapes

In order to meet consumer demand, food producers and packagers will look to packaging machinery and equipment that allows for a wider choice in terms of the size and shape of packaging, and different packaging volumes. Food industry businesses will seek out machinery that will allow for an easy switch from one packaging size to another, without the need for multiple packaging lines.

Increased focus on sustainability

With each year, we see increased consumer demand for the consumption of sustainable food products and sustainable, eco-friendly packaging and processes. As a result, food packaging companies will place more emphasis on their own environmental responsibility and will look to switch to new packaging materials, including recycled polymers, paper, bioplastics, antimicrobial and a range of reusable packaging solutions.

As discussed above, packaging automation will also be a key factor in sustainability, by helping to reduce waste, along with helping to reduce energy costs by speeding up packaging processes. 

More interactive packaging

Interactive packaging is expected to grow in a wide range of industries, food included. With the technological advances in printing various packaging substrates, there is an opportunity for food brands to provide a more interactive experience via their food packaging. For example, QR codes are an increasingly popular solution for encouraging consumer engagement, via social media or competition entry.

Food Packaging Machinery to Drive Your Business Forward

If you are to take your packaging processes up to the next level in 2023, Intamac is here to assist you. Whether you are looking to switch from manual packaging processes to move your business forward, or have experienced an increase in demand and are looking for ways to increase your output without increasing the footprint of your existing packaging lines, we can help you find the right packaging equipment solution.

Talk to our food packaging specialists today – call 01420 593682 or fill out your details in the form below.