Technologies, Process and Equipment
Consider technologies to help elevate your brand, production or service model and the types of materials you're currently using for your latest item. Every food vendor requires a distinct set of service capabilities to produce their product(s). Find a supplier who can provide the right set for you. For instance, if you're completely starting from scratch, you might require more services and features than if you're simply updating an existing operation. Factor your overall processes.
Product Type
Once you've considered your equipment and processes, think a bit more about your product. What properties might influence the materials your supplier uses in the packaging? What is the temperature of your product? Are you working with a frozen, refrigerated or shelf-stable item? The primary package you select to work with your equipment and your shelf-life targets must adhere to the appropriate barrier properties for product protection. Make sure your supplier understands your substance and can assess and provide for options that would extend product shelf life, the rigors of transport and product-package interaction.
Packaging Selection and Design
Will you have one package or three? Some products require multiple layers. Will this be the case for your product at any point in the journey to the consumer? If so, your supplier needs the right equipment to manage varying material types, shapes, and sizes. For your primary package (the one touching your product), you need to think back to your product type and how it may or may not be affected by light, temperature, oxygen, etc.
Sustainability and Consumer Trends
What are your sustainability goals? If you're trying to cut down on waste, opt for plant-based packaging to increase your recyclability or compost capabilities. You might accompany your biodegradable packaging with the appropriate consumer marketing message too! Consumer demand and corporate responsibility are driving new sustainability efforts in food packaging, with suppliers developing initiative-taking solutions to cut down on waste. Look for a vendor who can rise to the occasion and challenge you with new, forward-looking, sustainable innovations.
