Materials Technology for Food Packaging II
This Newsletter examines some of the latest developments in materials technology for food packaging, as well as select developments in packaging equipment. One of the key themes of this newsletter is the impact of environmental issues. This is both manifested in consumer demand and regulatory requirements. We document a recent case where there was consumer and retailer backlash in Switzerland against an expensive, non-recyclable package. Food producers in turn respond by demanding recyclable and sustain materials that do not degrade the packaging quality and aesthetics. There are interesting developments in bio-polymers and biodegradable packaging materials. Another trend is that carton packages are fighting back against the growth of plastic bottles. Meanwhile the industry also demands faster packaging processes and lower packaging overall costs.
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