Why choose aseptic?
In our new series Aseptic Advantage, we discuss the many merits of aseptic packaging.
We package food and beverage products for a multitude of reasons: to protect them from contamination, for convenience; so manufacturers can be more flexible with packaging formats and how they brand their products – the list goes on.
So, of all the types of packaging on the market today, why is aseptic packaging becoming more and more popular among manufacturers? The main and very obvious pro aside – that you can virtually eliminate the risk of contamination – aseptic packaging offers a host of benefits.
The aseptic advantage
For starters, this type of packaging means manufacturers can avoid preservatives and use real food pieces in their products because the aseptic process sterilises the carton pack. This buys into consumer demand for health and wellness, and it also means products can be preserved for longer while maintaining a high level of quality; over a year in some cases.
Other plusses include greater shelf stability at varying temperatures – making transportation easier and safer and, thus, allowing manufacturers to widen their customer base. And that’s in addition to aseptic packaging being a safer and quicker process compared to most non-aseptic packaging.
This brings us to one of the most important benefits for consumers and manufacturers: that aseptic packaging tends to be more sustainable. Aside from helping tackle food waste, a more efficient production process means manufacturers save energy on the factory floor. Furthermore, this type of packaging allows more flexibility when it comes to using renewable materials.
The future is aseptic
It stands to reason the aseptic packaging market keeps growing, with one report indicating it will reach $90.5 billion by 2027 – up from $50.9 billion in 2020. Reasons include lower distribution costs for manufacturers and consumer trends such as growing demand for dairy and ready-to-eat products.
In part two of our series we will move the discussion onto the pack itself, looking at every part of the structure while delving into the science behind aseptic packaging. To follow along and check out the other topics on our mind, subscribe to SIGnals Update, our exclusive bi-weekly newsletter.
- March 24, 2022