5 Types of Produce Packaging to Keep Your Products Fresh

November 22, 2023

We cannot overstate the importance of produce packaging in farming and food production. In these industries, everything revolves around preserving the freshness and attractiveness of different perishable food items.

Imagine a colorful basket of fruits and vegetables, each wrapped up just right to stay tasty and healthy. As consumers, we understand how crucial packaging is when we make our choices, right? 

So, we list five types of packaging that excel at maintaining the freshness and visual appeal of various food items. These solutions ensure that your produce is presentable and looks at its absolute best.

produce packaging

1. Clamshells

One of the most popular produce packaging supplies used for berries, tomatoes, and fresh herbs is the clamshell container. These clear plastic containers shield your produce from physical damage, moisture, and contaminants.

They also allow consumers to see the contents inside. Their hinged lid also makes it easy to open and reseal, ensuring the produce remains fresh for longer.

When made from recyclable materials, clamshell packaging becomes not only practical but also eco-friendly. Its design minimizes the risk of crushing or bruising the produce during handling and transportation. 

This fresh produce packaging is ideal for small-sized items, as it enhances their visual appeal and extends their shelf life.

2. Plastic Bags

Plastic bags have long been a staple for packaging a wide range of produce. They are preferred because they are lightweight, cost-effective, and readily available. 

While not as protective as clamshells, plastic bags are a practical choice for items less susceptible to damage during transportation. Examples of these food items are apples, oranges, and leafy greens.

If you want to prolong the freshness of food items using these packaged produce solutions, choose the perforated type. These specialized plastic bags allow air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup and keeping fruits and vegetables fresh.

Consumers easily carry their produce, thanks to the convenience of plastic bags.

3. Paper Bags

Paper bags, though less preferred due to their weak nature, are an eco-friendly and breathable packaging option. Items like potatoes and onions benefit from good air circulation, making them well-suited for these packaging solutions.

The porous nature of this eco-friendly produce packaging allows moisture to escape. This design reduces the risk of mold formation and extends the shelf life of your vegetables. 

Additionally, paper bags are biodegradable. They are a sustainable packaging choice, addressing the growing consumer demand for environmentally-friendly options. 

Thanks to their rustic and natural look, paper bags can appeal to customers seeking an organic or eco-friendly image.

4. Boxes

Boxes are a versatile option for packaging produce, suitable for various items, including apples, pears, and larger vegetables. These produce packaging boxes offer sturdy protection during transportation and storage, preventing crushing and bruising.

When using boxes for packing produce, choose the appropriate size and design that best suits your products. Consider adding cushioning materials, such as paper or foam inserts, to protect your produce from damage. 

Boxes are stackable, making them efficient for storage and transportation. Their solid characteristic also reduces the risk of spoilage due to mishandling.

5. Bins

For larger produce items like pumpkins, watermelons, or root vegetables, bins are a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice. Retailers and wholesalers find these produce packaging solutions suitable for bulk storage and transportation.

Manufacturers make bulk bins from durable materials like wood, plastic, or metal. This way, consumers can reuse them multiple times. Their design also facilitates proper ventilation, decreasing the likelihood of moisture buildup and mold growth.

This type of packaging is not only practical. It is also economically sustainable, as it reduces packaging costs and waste while preserving the freshness of your produce.

Bins can hold a substantial produce volume, reducing the need for excessive individual packaging.

Which Produce Packaging is Best for You?

Selecting the best packaging for your produce is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends on the type of goods you're handling, your target market, and your commitment to sustainability.

To make an informed decision, you may choose a combination of packaging solutions to cater to your product. Ensuring the freshness and visual appeal of your product is the ultimate goal. 

Seal the Freshness with Plan It Packaging

When preserving the freshness of your food items, you can count on us for top-notch produce packaging. We have packaging machines and solutions that help maintain the freshness and enhance the presentation of your food products.

Plan It Packaging cares about quality and the environment, so we're the smart choice for your food business. With our product offerings, you can reduce waste, boost your brand's image, and deliver fresh produce to your customers.

Your journey to fresher and better packaging starts with us. Contact our friendly team today to learn more about our packaging solutions and how we can help.

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