What is Food Packaging?

Food packaging is designed to contain, protect, preserve, identify, and facilitate the handling of food products. Materials can include paper, plastic, glass, metal, foil, and multilayer structures. Packaging selection depends on food characteristics, shelf-life requirements, temperature, moisture, oxygen, and handling conditions. Common formats include pouches, trays, containers, cartons, cans, and films. Food packaging must also consider applicable food-contact and safety requirements.