Dairy packaging technologies and materials involved in the process makes the products more attractive and eye-catching. Innovation in dairy packaging is not only being driven by the need for sustainability but also because dairy products are highly perishable.
Ban on single-use plastic
There have been numerous proposals in the pipeline for the ban of single-use plastics across consumer-facing sectors in the packaging industry. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules on August 12, 2021. It prohibits 20 identified single-use items by 2022.
The packing industry has demanded uniform state level implementation for the same. Also, since alternate packaging for single-use plastic like wood is not feasible for manufacturers, this may give rise to new trends.
Technology-led packaging trends and solutions
Controlled and modified atmosphere packaging
Modified atmosphere packaging is a system in which the atmosphere within the dairy package is initially altered and is eventually allowed to change during storage. Through this technology, the shelf life of the dairy product can be increased through microbiological and sensory indicators.
Active packaging
Active packaging is a technology-led solution that’s referred to by names like ‘intelligent packaging’, ‘smart packaging’, and ‘connected packaging’. In this packaging methodology, ethylene, oxygen, and moisture absorbent packs are used to maintain the freshness and consistency of the dairy product.
RFID Tags
Radio Frequency Indicator Tags use electromagnetic fields to auto-identify and track packages. In dairy packaging, these tags are used to track and inform customers about the quality of the dairy products.
Intelligent Biosensor packaging
Intelligent biosensor packaging technology is the use of biosensors on dairy product packs. These biosensors will communicate the deterioration of the product through colour changes or indicators. This will ensure the health and safety of the dairy product consumer.
QR code embedding
QR code embedding technology, as the name suggests will track the dairy product packages wirelessly. This technology will also create an interactive experience for the consumer. It’s a connected packaging technology. Manufacturers using the technology can enable the QR code to prompt better readability on digital gadgets like smartphones and tablets. The QR codes can be connected to social media and other brand touchpoints.
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Packaging is a vital component in branding and connected packaging technologies like QR code embedding can be used to create immersive experiences between the brand and its consumers through technologies like AI (artificial intelligence) and AR (augmented reality).
What’s in it for me?
Tech innovations in dairy packaging not only up the brand value but also connect the consumer directly with the brand and manufacturer. The packaged dairy products industry has interesting products like flavoured yoghurt. The dairy segment is fast-growing. Products like stirred and drinkable yogurt products are trending as consumers are looking for healthy and tasty snacking options. Consumers are becoming more aware of the health benefits of fermented dairy products like Greek Yogurt. Packaged dairy brands are innovating in terms of recipes, flavours, and attractive packaging.
Also, hyperlocal, and subscription-based delivery of fresh dairy products are on the rise, especially among urban consumers. As such, there is a need to adopt technology led solutions for packaging since these products are highly perishable. They must be protected from contamination and their shelf life must be maintained to ensure the health and safety of consumers. Packaging is also a vital component in branding and connected packaging technologies like QR code embedding can be used to create immersive experiences between the brand and its consumers through technologies like AI (artificial intelligence) and AR (augmented reality).
