Ready meal revamps
May 2023Product launches in the ready meal subcategory are gaining ground globally with +1% growth between 2018-2022 (CAGR). The leading packaging type for ready meals is a Standard Tray. There is a surge of growth in ready meal launches packed in a Pot which have had an +115% growth in the last five years. Plastic – Not Specified is the leading material for ready meal launches, but there has been a +15% growth in Glass packaging used for ready meals in the last five years. Furthermore, Recyclable is the leading environmental claim.
Myprotein Piri Piri Chicken with Rice (UK)
- Cooked, seared chicken breast strips in a spicy piri piri sauce with cooked long grain rice, a vegetable mix of grilled red pepper, sweetcorn, and peas with sugar and sweetener.
- Comes in a 550 g plastic pot held in a cardboard sleeve.
Sustainability: Rigid plastics
Sep 2024As consumers become more aware of environmental sustainability, they increasingly prefer F&B products packed in eco-friendly alternatives over traditional materials. Sustainable rigid plastics provide a durable option for food packaging.
Packaging versus food waste
Aug 2024Packaging manufacturers are innovating their solutions to minimize food waste. By extending the shelf life of perishable items with protective barriers, packaging helps keep food fresh longer. Innovations like resealable and portion-controlled designs also help minimize waste by allowing consumers to use smaller portion sizes.
Premium luxury packaging
Aug 2024According to data from Innova Market Insights, F&B launches with premium claims grew 4% from July 2019 to June 2024. Flat pouches were the most launched packaging type, accounting for 23% of these launches, while vacuum pouches had the fastest growth at 259% over five years. Additionally, 38% of these launches featured recyclable claims, but the most significant increase was in using bio-based or plant-based packaging for premium NPD.
Barrier coating innovation
Jul 2024As environmental concerns grow, the F&B industry is increasingly adopting sustainable barrier coatings to improve packaging. These advanced coatings, derived from bio-based, compostable or recyclable materials, enhance moisture and oxygen barriers while boosting recyclability.
Connected packaging innovation
Jun 2024F&B packaging is becoming a gateway to immersive experiences. By adding digital elements to packaging, brands can tell their stories, showcase their values and foster community engagement. From QR codes to near-field communication and augmented reality, brands are increasing the use of technology to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Innova Market Insights data indicates that ethical and environmentally friendly packaging claims have been growing, with an average annual increase of 4% from April 2019 to March 2024. The most significant rise in environmentally friendly packaging was observed in the categories of Meat Substitutes, Spreads and Snacks. Notably, 86% of this NPD featured a recyclable packaging claim. The fastest growth was seen in products with "Less Packaging" claims, which experienced a 42% increase over five years.