Packaging is vital for food safety. It protects the contents from the outside world and is in direct contact with food so it must be made from the right materials and fit for purpose.
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This is where the Food Safe standards come in. Any products used for Food and Beverages should be marked with the wine glass and fork symbol, ensuring they're non-toxic and food-safe. This symbol is recognised internationally, making it easy to identify whether packaging is suitable for food use (or not), even on imported products.
Rigid packaging, made from plastic or metal, provides the highest level of protection which is why it's a popular choice for food businesses. Invopak specialises in rigid packaging and has supplied the Food and Beverage industry for over fifty years.
We understand the critical role that food-grade packaging plays in ensuring the safety and quality of the products it holds, and our team can offer advice on everything from the best food tubs for sauces and dips to commissioning printed buckets that showcase your brand.
And if you've ever wondered what Food Safe means or what packaging tests are required to make the (food) grade, then keep reading.
Plastic tubs marked with the wine glass and fork, are suitable for food.
Packaging classified as food grade has met food safety regulatory standards. Food-grade packaging materials have been tested and passed safe for direct contact with food, this means the plastic is free from dyes, additives or harmful products, and will not leach harmful chemicals that could contaminate the food.
Food safety compliance is essential for the food industry, but customer opinion is also important for businesses. In recent years consumers have been increasingly concerned about the risk of BPAs in food packaging.
BPA or Bisphenol A is an industrial chemical used in the plastics industry since the s. Research has shown links between BPA exposure and hormone-related cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Choosing BPA-free packaging for food and drinks removes this risk.
The food-grade packaging that Invopak supplies is BPA-free, so you can order your packaging with us with confidence.
Food- grade means the material is suitable for food packaging whilst Food-safe is about the product itself. A material may be classified as "food-grade," but it's only considered "food-safe" when used according to its intended purpose. For instance, a plastic storage container designed for dry cereal might not be safe for storing hot soup. This is because heat can potentially compromise the plastic, releasing toxins and making the food unsafe for consumption.
Hot drinks offer the twin challenge of containing heat and liquid. Packaging that's food safe for hot liquids must be resistant to water and heat long enough for someone to drink a cup of coffee without it leaking. If you've ever tried using a paper bag in the rain you'll know that normal paper doesn't last long when you add water! Wax coatings and multiple layers give the heat and liquid resistance necessary for a coffee cup to do its job.
Many plastics are sensitive to temperature. Heat can distort packaging or make it leach chemicals and plastic can become brittle when frozen. Food manufacturers should check whether containers are suitable for hot-filling or freezer-safe, where necessary so that food safety isn't compromised.
Our Food grade plastic tubs are designed to meet the highest food industry standards. They're available in a variety of styles and sizes and many are suitable for hot-filling, microwave and freezer use. Please get in touch with the team for specific temperature guides, as well as advice on product labelling or any other queries.
Paper coffee cups must be classified Food Safe for carrying hot drinks.
All synthetic plastics are derived from petroleum hydrocarbons such as crude oil, natural gas or coal, but how they're made and the specific chemical makeup and properties of each vary. Rigid packaging is typically made from either HDPE or PP.
PP (Polypropylene):
PP is a durable and heat-resistant plastic with excellent chemical resistance, making it suitable for hot-fill applications and microwave use. It's commonly used for food containers, yoghurt pots, bottle caps, and microwave-safe dishes. Polypropylene is semi-transparent to opaque, depending on its thickness, and is widely recyclable.
Polypropylene is widely used to make bucket and tub packaging for paints, chemicals and coatings, as well as food. Many of our core ranges are made from Polypropylene, including our plastic buckets and food grade tubs.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene):
HDPE has an excellent strength-to-density ratio, which means it's strong, flexible and durable, making it ideal for packaging. It also offers excellent chemical and moisture resistance, so it's ideal for holding oils and liquids. HDPE is opaque and available in various colours, typically white, blue and black. Common uses of HDPE include; milk bottles, food containers, and detergent bottles.
The structural strength of HDPE means it's the best plastic for large containers, including IBCs,Plastic Jerry Cans and Drums.HDPE containers are the most durable, practical and cost-effective way to store and ship liquids and powders in bulk.
HDPE is also one of the most recyclable plastics, it can be turned into pellets and reused because it retains enough structural strength after the recycling process to be useful. Our PCR Jerry Cans are made from at least 30% recycled HDPE and can be fully recycled after use.
Due to environmental issues, single-use plastic drink bottles are slowly being phased out in favour of glass or aluminium. However, the many practical advantages of food grade plastic bottles mean they are still essential packaging throughout the food and beverage industry, particularly when storing or shipping goods in bulk.
The two most important considerations for food businesses are safety and cost, and when it comes to liquids and oils plastic bottles are hard to beat.
Plastic bottles protect the contents from contamination, keeping air-borne bacteria, odours, and pollutants out, extending the shelf-life and keeping the contents safe for human consumption.
One of the reasons that plastic bottles still dominate the liquids market is that the alternatives just aren't as good. Glass bottles are heavy and easily broken, making them expensive and more risky to transport. Metal cans are expensive, can't be re-sealed and are opaque, so the contents can't tempt the potential customer.
The truth is plastic bottles have an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, so they're light and strong, they're also cheap to manufacture, making them the most cost-effective way to transport liquids safely.
Invopak stock a range of food grade plastic bottles. Ours are made from HDPE, so they are suitable for holding a wide range of ingredients, oils, liquids and powders.
Resin ID codes identify the type of plastic a product is made from.
Plastic resin identification codes are important for recycling. For plastic to be reusable it must be separated according to material type because different plastics have different properties. The plastic numbering system preserves the purity of the recycled material by separating the plastics into types.
The chemical composition of each plastic type varies, so only some can be safely used for food packaging. The six main categories in the plastic numbering system are;
1 - PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate) - This is usually clear and is commonly used for single-use food and beverage containers. It is relatively safe, but it's important to keep it away from heat or it can leach chemicals. PET is actually a porous surface, which means that over time bacteria can accumulate, this is why single-use plastics really are only safe to use once.
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2 - HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) - This is one of the best materials for food and beverage use because it doesn't leach chemicals and can be safely re-used.
3- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) - This is commonly used for food wrap and even cooking oil bottles. However PVC plastic is made using phthalates which can be harmful. PVCs should not be heated because these chemicals are released with heat. PVC is also not currently recyclable, making it one of the worst types of plastic to use.
4 - LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) - This is a safe plastic to use for food, and is another plastic commonly used for food wraps, and bread bags. The biggest issue with LDPE is that it isn't currently recyclable, partly because there's no market for recycled LDPE.
5 - PP (Polypropylene) - PP is one of the safest and most practical plastics in use today. It's heat-resistant, which means it's microwave and dishwasher-safe, which is one of the reasons food tubs and buckets are usually made from PP. It is also easy to recycle, making it a better choice for the environment than many other plastics.
6 - PS (Polystyrene) - This is one of the worst plastics from both a health and safety and an environmental standpoint. It leaches potentially toxic chemicals, particularly when heated and cannot be recycled. Once upon a time, it was used for coffee cups, and it's still often used for takeaway food because of its insulating properties. However public awareness of the problems with Polystyrene means that alternatives are becoming much more common.
7 - Other - everything else! - This category covers new plastics, such as bioplastics, as well as polycarbonates and plastics made with BPAs. Plastics classed as 7 can't currently be recycled and are not typically suitable for food use either.
Not all plastic is created equal when it comes to recycling - HDPE and PP can be re-used again whilst polystyrene is destined for landfill.
Packaging is an important decision to make that significantly affects how your products are stored, perceived, and used. For most industries, durability and sustainability remain the top considerations when choosing the best packaging solutions.
Read through the article to get valuable insights to help you make informed decisions when choosing wholesale packaging options for your products.
Sustainability continues to dominate consumer preferences and certain materials are more recyclable than others. Without losing quality, glass can be reused multiple times, which makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious customers. Also, their robust nature protects products from external contaminants and ensures their safety and freshness for an extended period of time.
Another major advantage is their aesthetic appeal. These containers convey a sense of luxury and trustworthiness, which resonates with customers. They can elevate a brand’s image and make products more appealing on store shelves or online listings. Businesses seeking packaging that’s both functional and visually impressive often turn to these as their go-to material.
Various industries rely on these versatile materials, each utilizing their unique qualities for specific purposes:
This versatility makes such packaging an ideal choice across multiple sectors.
There are a wide range of options available to choose from, depending on your product's requirements:
Each variation caters to specific business needs, ensuring you can find the perfect match for your products.
Selecting the ideal container involves several considerations, such as:
Start by evaluating the product’s sensitivity to light, moisture, and air. Items such as essential oils may require amber containers for UV protection, while clear ones work better for visually appealing liquids like syrups.
Understand your target audience’s preferences to guide your choices. For example, minimalist designs might appeal to eco-conscious buyers, while bold colors could attract a younger demographic.
Weigh the pros and cons of sourcing locally versus internationally, as this affects cost, lead times, and shipping reliability. Thoroughly compare suppliers based on quality, pricing, minimum order quantities (MOQs), and customization options.
Several factors influence pricing. These include material quality, container size, color, and order volume. Amber and specialty-colored options typically cost more due to their manufacturing process. Similarly, bulk orders often reduce per-unit costs, though higher MOQs may pose a challenge for small businesses.
Be mindful of hidden costs, such as shipping cost, storage requirements, and custom labeling. Understanding these expenses upfront will help you budget more effectively and avoid unpleasant surprises later.
Environmental concerns drive many businesses to choose glass over plastic bottles. Unlike plastic, which degrades over time and contributes to pollution, glass can be recycled endlessly without losing quality. Moreover, its ability to preserve product integrity far surpasses that of plastic bottles. Reusability also makes this material a favorite among consumers, giving businesses an edge in sustainability-focused markets.
Statistics reveal a growing preference for glass packaging, especially among environmentally aware buyers. Leveraging this trend can enhance your brand’s appeal and position your products as premium offerings in competitive markets.
Finding reliable suppliers is essential for securing quality packaging. USA domestic suppliers, like The Bottle Depot, often provide quicker shipping and more consistent quality control. Online marketplaces such as Alibaba, ThomasNet, and Uline also offer a wide selection, though it’s important to vet suppliers thoroughly.
Requesting product samples, checking certifications, and reading reviews can help ensure you’re partnering with a reputable supplier. Look for those who offer customization options and flexible MOQs to meet your specific business needs.
Proper storage ensures containers remain in pristine condition. Avoid stacking them without adequate padding to prevent breakage. Use dividers and bubble wrap when storing or shipping large quantities.
Cleaning and sterilizing glass bottles before use is critical, especially for food, beverage, and personal care applications. A simple sterilization process involves boiling the containers in water for a few minutes or using a specialized cleaning solution to ensure product safety. Protective packaging during transit can also safeguard against damage and maintain quality.
What are the most common sizes for wholesale packaging? Popular sizes include 1 oz, 2 oz, 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz, catering to various industries and uses.
How do I choose the right closures for my containers? Select closures based on your product’s consistency. For liquids, droppers or mist sprayers work well, while screw caps suit thicker substances.
What is the MOQ for most suppliers? Minimum order quantities vary but typically range from 100 to 1,000 units, depending on the supplier.
Are glass containers more expensive than plastic ones? While initial costs are higher, their durability, reusability, and premium appeal often justify the investment.
Glass packaging offers a sustainable, durable, and visually appealing solution for businesses across industries. Whether you’re in personal care, food and beverage, or healthcare, choosing the right packaging can enhance your brand and meet evolving customer expectations.
Ready to elevate your packaging? Explore high-quality glass bottles at The Bottle Depot today!
Are you interested in learning more about Wholesale Plastic Food Wraps? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!