Flexible plastic packaging has been the most dynamic innovation in the field of packaging. The advantages of plastic packaging are numerous. Be it moulding it into a variety of shapes or preserving the flavor and safety of food or logistical aspects, all are covered under the flexible packaging.
Flexible packaging by definition is made from flexible material that can be packed, sealed and can retain the freshness of its content. Some advantages of this form of packaging are:
-Eco-friendly
The fact that less material is used to create flexible packaging instantly makes it environmentally friendly. Creation of less wastage and less material in landfill makes it an ideal choice for commodity packaging. In addition, less water and energy is utilized for the manufacturing process and since the product weighs less it translates into lower transportation cost and less consumption of energy
-Food safety
Flexible packaging ensures food safety and a prolonged shelf life. Protection from contamination and deterioration throughout its shelf life is also an integral part of good flexible packaging. It must also be informative of the nutrients and ingredients and other details in compliance with the labelling and packaging regulations.
-Convenient
In terms of food packaging, flexible packages can be heated, frozen, resealed and can be printed over easily, thereby making it the most desirable product in the FMCG packaging segment. They are lightweight and are easier to carry around by consumers giving the material an edge over other types of packaging materials.
-Durability
This is the prime benefit that makes flexible packaging the first choice for food packaging. If kept/stored in the right conditions the package can last for a very long time. This also means that the product can be used and reused a number of times. Easy sealability keeps food fresh for the longest time. Flexible packaging also has an advantage that it cannot be easily broken. They may bend or deform under certain situations but they will not break open easily.
-Dynamic nature
Plastic can be easily designed into many different shapes and sizes. One can easily identify products sitting on the shelf by merely looking at the shape or size of the packaging.
-Competitive edge
When product design is specifically tailored to the product, the industry and the target customer, the appeal of the product increases. As a result this kind of packaging can also act as a persuasion tactic for consumers for trying their products through attractive colors and designs.