Rigid vs. Flexible Packaging

Rigid vs. Flexible Packaging

Jul 18, 2024Enviro Flex Pack

Flexible Packaging Optimizes Space Utilization

For food processors and foodservice operators, space is often at a premium, whether for packaging equipment or materials. One effective solution to maximize available space is the use of flexible pouch packaging for solid and liquid food products such as sauces, spices, and soups.

Compared to metal cans, flexible packaging takes up 40% less space, optimizing both warehouse and back-of-house storage. This allows for easier inventory management, enabling food processors and restaurants to maintain a larger stock of products.

Flexible pouch packaging not only optimizes your storage space but also enhances the amount of product within the package. It requires less material, resulting in a much higher product-to-package ratio compared to rigid packaging. This reduction in headspace and material usage helps lower costs and boost sustainability.

Flexible Packaging Reduces Operational Costs

Switching from rigid to flexible packaging formats can significantly lower the total cost of operations for food processors and restaurants. Flexible packaging not only occupies 40% less space compared to metal cans but also weighs one-tenth as much, resulting in reduced shipping costs.

These savings extend beyond inventory management, benefiting both processors and restaurants alike. By adopting flexible packaging, food processors enhance operational efficiency and maximize return on investment for their customers.

When it comes to traditional containers like cans of tomato sauce or jars of guacamole, restaurant staff often spend valuable time scraping out every last bit to minimize waste.

Enhanced Safety with Flexible Packaging

Employee safety is paramount in any restaurant environment. Unlike traditional number 10 cans that pose risks with sharp edges on the lid and can itself during product evacuation, flexible packaging offers a safer alternative.

Opening rigid containers often involves using can openers, knives, or scissors to extract every last bit of product, leading to both a messy kitchen and unnecessary hazards. Flexible packaging, especially those with easy-open tabs, provides a safer option.

The need for tools not only impacts employee safety but also raises concerns about cross-contamination. Rigid containers, requiring scissors or knives for opening, pose a higher risk of contaminating food.

In contrast, flexible packaging solutions enhance food safety by minimizing cross-contamination risks and ensuring durability throughout the handling process.

Enhancing Sustainability Through Flexible Packaging

Everything discussed so far in this article contributes to improving your sustainability profile: enhanced product yield, increased food safety, and efficient use of space. Each of these benefits plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices. However, the sustainability story goes even deeper.

In grocery stores, consumers often avoid dented cans due to concerns about contamination. This fear is mirrored in foodservice settings, where restaurants frequently discard dented cans and jugs to maintain product integrity and customer confidence. Flexible packaging solutions, known for their adaptability, eliminate this issue. Restaurants can confidently use flexible packaging without worrying about product integrity, ensuring minimal waste and promoting sustainable practices.

The Environmental Benefits of Flexible Packaging

Flexible packaging offers significant environmental advantages over traditional metal cans. It consumes 75% less energy and generates one-tenth of the CO2 emissions during production.

Moreover, its higher product-to-package ratio reduces water and energy consumption both in manufacturing and transportation, resulting in less material ending up in landfills.

From maximizing space to enhancing sustainability, there are numerous compelling reasons to transition from rigid containers to flexible packaging. Are you ready to make the switch?

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