HALABJA TECHNICAL COLLEGE OF APPLIED SCIENCES

Food science & quality control

High diploma study

Scientific report

Roll of packaging in food

preserving

Submitted by:
Pshtiwan L. N.

pshtiwan.noori.tcas@spu.edu.iq

Submitted to:
L. Aya asfandyar M.Saeed
Content:

 Introduction
 Historical perspective
 Types of packaging
 Materials Used in Food Packaging
 Food packaging- roles
 Role of packaging in reducing food losses and waste
 Role of packaging in food preservation
 Packaging as the source of product information
 conclusion
 References
Introduction:

From the early use of natural containers by early humans to the present day, significant
advancements in food packaging materials have contributed to minimizing microbial
growth and protecting foods from external contamination. These materials have evolved
over time to prevent food deterioration caused by microbes, which can result from
exposure to air, moisture, or changes in pH associated with the food or its surroundings [1].

In simple terms, packaging preserves the benefits of food processing, ensuring that food
remains wholesome during transportation over long distances from its origin to the point of
consumption [2].

Packaging materials serve a crucial role in preserving, protecting, promoting, marketing,

and distributing food products [1].

The packaging and labeling of food or beverages play a pivotal role in the consumer's
selection process, serving as the primary source of information. This critical information
empowers consumers, allowing them to make more informed and educated choices in the
marketplace. Scholars such as McCullough and Best (1980) and van Trijp and Steenkamp
(1998) have emphasized the significance of packaging and labeling as key factors that
enable consumers to assess and select products based on their preferences, needs, and
values [19].

This report will delve into the diverse aspects of food packaging, exploring its evolution, the
materials employed, technological advancements, and the critical role it plays in ensuring
food safety, extending shelf life, and meeting the ever-changing demands of consumers and
regulatory standards. As we navigate through the intricacies of food packaging, we will
uncover its role in shaping the modern food supply chain and influencing the sustainability
landscape in the broader context of our globalized society.
Historical perspective:

As civilizations progressed, more intricate containers were devised to meet specific

requirements. Large ceramic vessels known as amphoras, utilized between 1500 BC and
500 AD, were employed for shipping wine and other products across the Mediterranean,
primarily serving the ancient Greek and Roman empires. [9, 10].

Before the 1800s, packaging materials were crafted from naturally occurring items like
leaves, gourds, and shells to contain food. Baskets were woven using grasses, wood, and
bamboo. Among the early materials shaped into food containers were pottery, paper, and
glass. [11, 12].

In the initial century BC, the Chinese employed treated tree bark and early predecessors of
paper to wrap food. Several centuries thereafter, during the Franco-Austrian War of 1809,
Napoleon Bonaparte utilized some of the earliest examples of mass-produced canned food
to provide sustenance for his troops. Plastics were discovered in the decades following that
innovation but were not used beyond military purposes until well into the twentieth
century [20].

It took more than 150 years for significant changes to occur in food packaging, ultimately
resulting in its present-day form (Sen and Das, 2016).

Types of packaging:

In the intricate world of product packaging, the effectiveness and functionality of various
layers play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of goods from
manufacturers to consumers. This hierarchical structure of packaging is categorized into
three essential levels:

1. Primary packaging
2. Secondary packaging
3. Tertiary packaging

Each layer serves a distinct purpose in the packaging ecosystem.

 Primary packaging is the material which comes in direct contact with the contents
packed. It covers the product and holds it. This typically refers to the smallest unit of
distribution or use, illustrated by items such as a packet of chips.
 Secondary packaging is the material present outside the primary packaging. It is also
used to group primary packages together. Illustrative examples of secondary
packaging include paperboard cartons containing breakfast cereals, such as
Cornflakes, and trays or cartons holding beverage cans.
  Tertiary packaging, on the other hand, serves as the material that contains secondary
packages. Its primary purpose is to facilitate the handling, transportation,
distribution, shipping, or storage of items in bulk. Example: Wooden crates,
cardboard cartons, etc. [13].

Materials Used in Food Packaging:

Food packaging utilizes a variety of materials, including glass, wood, metal, plastics, paper,
and flexible options like coatings and adhesives. Each of these packaging materials presents
distinct advantages and drawbacks, necessitating careful consideration by food processors
when selecting the most appropriate option [1].

Plastic, metal, glass, and paper serve as prevalent choices for packaging materials,
employed to maintain the freshness and quality of various food products. Nonetheless,
current research is placing a significant emphasis on bio-based packaging to address and
mitigate the environmental impact associated with conventional polymeric packaging
materials. This shift toward bio-based alternatives reflects a growing awareness and
commitment to sustainable practices in the food packaging industry [5].

The design and construction of packaging play a pivotal role in determining the shelf life of
a food product. Careful consideration in selecting appropriate packaging materials and
technologies is essential to maintain the quality and freshness of the product throughout
the processes of distribution and storage. Contemporary food packages often incorporate a
combination of materials, capitalizing on the functional or aesthetic properties of each [2].

Numerous publications have delved into the intricate details of specific packaging
materials. The following provides a concise overview of packaging materials commonly
employed for food use:-

Glass, as a packaging material, is inert and offers an absolute barrier to gases and moisture.
This characteristic makes it well-suited for preserving the flavor and freshness of certain
food products, notably beverages like beer and wine. The impermeable nature of glass
ensures that the packaged contents remain protected from external influences,
contributing to the overall quality and longevity of the stored items.

Paper undergoes modification through the addition of various additives such as lacquers,
waxes, and resins, or by coextending with other polymers to enhance its barrier properties.
This treatment allows paper to be utilized in different forms within the realm of food
packaging and related products. Different forms of paper include:
 a) Kraft Paper: This paper, available in natural brown, unbleached, bleached white, and
heavy-duty varieties, is employed in the production of bags and wrappings.
Renowned for its robustness, it finds application in packaging items such as flour,
sugar, as well as dried fruits and vegetables.

b) Sulfite Paper: This paper is glazed to improve its appearance, wet strength, and oil
resistance.

c) Greaseproof Paper: Offering resistance to oil but allowing moisture migration,

greaseproof paper is commonly used to pack cookies, butter, oily foods, candies, and
so forth.

d) Glassine: This greaseproof paper has a high degree of smoothness and a glossy finish.
It is commonly used for packaging biscuits, fats, fast foods, and so on.

e) Parchment Paper: Made from acid-modified cellulose to improve its air and moisture
bather properties, parchment paper is used for butter, lard, and fat packaging.

f) Paperboard: Paperboard is available in several forms (white board, solid board, chip
board, fiber board, and paper laminates) and is mainly used in sec-ondary packaging
to improve the handling and distribution of food products.

Metals like tin, steel, aluminum, and chromium are frequently utilized in food packaging
due to their superior barrier properties, physical protection, printability, widespread
consumer approval, and recyclability [5, 2, 1].

Plastic The utilization of plastic in food packaging has consistently risen due to its
affordability and various functional advantages, including optical properties,
thermostability, microwavability, and others (Lopez-Rubio et al., 2004).

Common packaging formats used for different products:

Packaging formats Example of produce

Paperboard cartons Fresh produce ( apple, strawberry)
Polyethylene-laminated cartons Processed produce (orange juice)
Wooden box Fresh produce (strawberry)
Tetra recart carton Processed produce (meat)
Tetra wedge package Processed produce (meat)
Can Processed food (minimally processed
tomato pulp)
Glass bottle Minimally processed food (tomato
sauce, orange juice)
Plastic bottle Processed food (citrus juice)
Food packaging- roles:

Due to the high demand for packaging materials within the food and other industries, the
packaging industry is one of the largest and fastest growing commercial sectors in the world
[3].

The text and graphics featured on packaging materials typically offer consumers details
regarding the kind, origin, composition, nutritional value, and even the environmental
sustainability of the products. This necessitates the ability to print or etch information onto
the surfaces of the packaging. Furthermore, food packaging may be intentionally crafted to
enhance the convenience of handling and storing foods, incorporating features like easy
opening and sealing mechanisms. In specific cases, packaging materials must also withstand
cooking processes such as boiling, baking, or microwaving. As a result, food packaging
materials require high versatility, enabling them to be processed into various sizes and
shapes while possessing diverse functional attributes (Yam & Lee, 2012).

The primary objective of package labeling is to communicate essential information to

consumers regarding a product's contents, brand, shelf life, storage conditions, and price.
Consumers are particularly interested in details about product quality, proper handling
instructions, and nutritional composition. Package labeling serves the purpose of offering
comprehensive product information, including details on nutrients, weight, brand labels,
certifications, ingredient listings, barcodes, and more. This not only fulfills legal
requirements but also plays a crucial role in promoting product branding, providing
guidance on storage and cooking instructions, specifying pricing details, and indicating shelf
life. In essence, package labeling serves as a vital tool in conveying information that
empowers consumers to make informed decisions about the products they purchase [5].

The fundamental functions of packaging are explicitly outlined as follows:

 Containment: This depends on the physical form and nature of the product. For
instance, it addresses the containment of a hygroscopic free-flowing powder or a
viscous and acidic tomato concentrate.
 Protection: Packaging serves to prevent mechanical damage resulting from the
various hazards encountered during distribution.
 Preservation: It involves preventing or inhibiting chemical changes, biochemical
changes, and microbiological spoilage of the product.
 Information about the Product: Packaging provides essential details, including legal
requirements, product ingredients, and usage instructions.
 Convenience: Packaging is designed to enhance ease of handling for both packagers
and end-users throughout the packaging chain.
  Presentation: This encompasses the material type, shape, size, color, and
merchandising display units, contributing to the visual appeal of the product.
 Brand Communication: Packaging communicates brand identity through elements
like typography, symbols, illustrations, advertising, and color, creating a distinctive
visual impact.
 Promotion (Selling): Packaging can be utilized for promotional purposes, such as
offering free extra products, introducing new products, or providing discounts.
 Economy: Packaging contributes to efficiency in distribution, production, and storage,
optimizing overall economic considerations.
 Environmental Responsibility: It addresses considerations related to the
environment, spanning manufacturing processes, product use, reuse, recycling, and
final disposal.

Role of packaging in reducing food waste:

Evaluating the environmental impact of food packaging requires acknowledging the positive
effects of decreasing food waste across the supply chain. Numerous countries have
reported substantial food wastage, varying from 25% for food grain to 50% for fruits and
vegetables, as documented by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 1989.

Packaging plays a crucial role in the food system, ensuring the safe handling and delivery of
both fresh and processed food products from production to the end user. Ongoing
technological advancements in packaging present new opportunities to minimize losses,
uphold quality, add value, and extend the shelf life of agricultural produce, ultimately
enhancing the security of the food system (Opara, 2011).

The choice of appropriate packaging material emerges as a critical factor in realizing the
potential of packaging to mitigate postharvest food losses and waste [7].

intelligent packaging has the potential to play a crucial role in addressing future challenges
and promoting a more sustainable society by minimizing food waste. Shifting from the
traditional "use by" date to a dynamic system capable of providing real-time information
about the condition of food can reduce losses while ensuring food safety [16].
Several factors contribute to food loss and waste (FLW) at the consumer level:

1. Improper Storage: Food loss occurs when items are not utilized before their
expiration. This can result from inadequate visibility in refrigerators, leaving
ingredients partially used, and miscalculating actual food needs.

2. Over-Preparing: The tendency to cook or serve more food than necessary

contributes to waste. Increasing portion sizes over time and the prevalence of large
meals often lead to leftovers being forgotten and eventually discarded.

3. Large Portions: Restaurants, in particular, contribute to waste through increased

portion sizes. Uneaten restaurant meals and edible leftovers left behind cannot
always be reused or donated due to health code restrictions, especially evident in all-
you-can-eat buffets.

4. Date Label Confusion: Premature disposal of food occurs when consumers

misinterpret date labels such as "sell by," "best by," or "use by."

5. Overbuying: Sales and promotions encouraging impulse or bulk purchases at retail

stores can result in consumers buying more than they can consume within a
reasonable time, leading to spoilage.

6. Poor Planning: Without proper meal plans and shopping lists, consumers may
inaccurately estimate the ingredients needed for the week. Unplanned restaurant
meals or food delivery can also contribute to home food spoilage.

7. Lack of Freezing: Confusion regarding whether a product is suitable for freezing and
the best freezing practices to maintain quality and storage life can contribute to food
spoilage.

Addressing these factors through awareness, education, and changes in consumer behavior
can significantly contribute to reducing food loss and waste at the consumer level [17].
Role of packaging in food preservation:

Food packaging holds a crucial position within the food processing industry, with its primary
objectives being to contain, safeguard, and maintain the integrity of the final product as it
makes its way to meet customer expectations. The significance of packaging is underscored
by its three fundamental functions: firstly, to shield and preserve the product; secondly, to
communicate essential information; and thirdly, to facilitate transportation (Singh et al.,
2012; Young et al., 2020). In essence, packaging plays a multifaceted role in ensuring the
quality, safety, and effective delivery of food products to consumers [4].

In every instance, it is crucial to take into account the inherent properties of a particular
food product, such as its susceptibility to oxidation or initial microbial population. The
product is subject to external conditions like climate, light, or the presence of
contaminants. However, the exposure is not instantaneous, as the packaging serves to
somewhat isolate the food from its surroundings [5].

The protective capability of a package primarily depends on its permeability to gases and
vapors that could compromise the quality of the product. For most foods, changes in
moisture content can result in physical or biological defects. The loss of water may lead to
undesirable drying, affecting both the product's texture and the manufacturer's bottom
line. More detrimental than moisture is oxygen, particularly for foods of plant or animal
origin. Oxygen can cause lipid oxidation, leading to rancidity, especially when the packaging
allows light transmission.

Preserving the qualities (physical, chemical, sanitary, organoleptic) of food also requires
preventing changes in taste, color, and odor. If a modified atmosphere is employed inside
the package, it aims to maintain the composition of CO2 and N2. All these deterioration
processes are contingent on time and temperature. Consequently, packaging often includes
notices such as 'use before' or 'recommended deadline.'[6].

Packaging serves the purpose of preserving and extending the shelf life of food products.
For instance, cans or pouches safeguard thermostabilized foods by creating a barrier that
separates the processed, shelf-stable foods from the environment, particularly
microorganisms. Additionally, packaging contributes to food preservation by:

1. acting as a shield against water vapor, oxygen, carbon dioxide, other volatile
substances, contaminants, light, and microorganisms.
2. engaging with the product to actively extend its shelf life (active packaging) [14].
Packaging as the source of product information:

Packaging serves as the primary source of essential product information, often being the
sole means of conveying crucial details to both those handling the product and the end
consumer. This information includes the product's identity, weight/volume, destination,
handling instructions, and, if applicable, unpacking/repacking instructions. Accessibility and
clarity are paramount in presenting this information. To overcome potential language
barriers, especially for vital instructions, the incorporation of pictograms is recommended.

Critical details on secondary and tertiary packaging, such as product information, quantity
in the pack, product codes, and barcodes, are essential for efficient stock recording.

For consumers, there's a growing demand for packaging to provide legal, promotional, and
usage information. Whether it's a chocolate bar, a toothpaste tube, or a high-end perfume
or skincare product, consumers expect details about the product's name, its intended use
(if not obvious), weight/volume, and information about the manufacturer or seller (e.g.,
Tesco). This need for information becomes even more significant when products are
distributed across diverse geographical markets, necessitating multilingual content [15].

The marking and labeling of packages play a crucial role in shaping consumers' purchasing
behavior. In addition to providing essential information, research by Behzad (2014)
highlights the significance of graphics, design, and color in packaging, all of which
contribute to the overall success of a product and brand.

Manufacturers, when placing a product on the market, have the option to include
additional, non-mandatory information with marketing and educational purposes. These
supplementary details can encompass:

 Emphasizing Product Features: This may include showcasing specific, distinctive

attributes of the product, such as certifications or recommendations from market
institutes.
 Creating Brand Image: Packaging can be designed to contribute to the desired image
of both the product and the brand, incorporating decorations, ornaments, and
linguistic or graphic elements.
 Promoting Activities: Manufacturers may inform consumers about promotional
activities related to the product, utilizing elements like QR codes that redirect to
product advertisements or fan pages (Ankiel and Grzybowska-Brzezińska, 2020).

Numerous studies, including those by Garber et al. (2008), Otterbring et al. (2013), and
Hota and Charry (2014), have explored the impact of communication elements, including
informational packaging, on consumers' purchasing decisions [18].
Conclusion:

Food packaging is a dynamic and critical thing of the food industry, evolving over centuries
to satisfy the changing desires of societies. It plays a multifaceted role in preserving,
defending, and imparting food products, making sure their protection, and lowering waste.
Technological improvements maintain to shape the future of food packaging, with a
developing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. As purchasers
emerge as more conscious of the effect of packaging on the surroundings, the enterprise is
challenged to innovate and undertake practices that balance capability, safety, and eco-
friendliness.
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