Glass finds lasting loyalty in sauces and spreads category

Plastics continue to be the most popular packaging material in the Ready-to-drink (RTD) category with PET recording an increase in launch activity. Non-recyclable plastics are giving way to recyclable alternatives such as HDPE, PP and PET. Aluminum cans are also achieving increased adoption, owing to their high recyclability and single-serve convenience. The use of “Infinitely Recyclable” claims is more prevalent within aluminum cans. However, there is no major shift to glass packaging in the RTD category, despite the material’s use in carbonates, juices and nectars and iced tea.

Packets and carton boxes have long been the go-to-choice for packaging cereals and cereal bars. Today’s consumers lead increasingly busy lifestyles, reflected in the growth of pouch packaging solutions that enable resealability and on-the-go consumption. Environmental sustainability is mainly achieved through the use of 100% recycled and post-consumer recycled packaging, specifically in carton boxes. Recently, there have been product launches which feature recyclable bio-based plastics or biodegradable materials. Although still a niche, there is a potential for greater adoption of compostable solutions. 

Packets and carton boxes have long been the go-to-choice for packaging baked goods such as sweet biscuits, cookies, crackers and baking ingredients. To bolster the environmental sustainability credentials of their packaging, several companies have adopted the use of 100 percent post-consumer recycled in carton boxes. Some companies are also communicating the use of renewable energy in the production of their packaging. Although still a niche within the bakery segment, there is also potential for greater adoption of compostable and biodegradable solutions.

Glass has historically been the packaging material of choice for baby foods, but the current packaging landscape for baby foods is dominated by plastics. When looking at the overall category, nearly one in five launches in the baby foods category are packaged in plastic packets, while one in six launches are packaged in stand-up DOY pouches. Baby formula continues to be packed predominantly in tins, while glass jars continue to dominate baby meals. Most of the packaging sustainability credentials within the category are illustrated through from the use of recyclable plastic materials and the use of post-consumer recycled content in carton boxes.

With winter upon us, soups and seasonings offer much needed warmth and comfort. As is the case in most food and beverage categories, companies are working towards using 100 percent recycled materials when it comes to plastic packaging or are making the switch to alternative packaging materials, such as tins, cardboard tubs or glass bottles. In terms of convenience, the options to reclose and reseal remain prevalent within the category.

Despite the impact of e-commerce on traditional retail stores, the festive trading quarter is still one of the most important periods for companies in terms of sales. It allows brands to achieve greater shelf standout and capitalize on consumers’ spirit of generosity during the festive period. While Christmas-themed offerings are found across various categories, through limited edition flavors or seasonal packaging design, more than half of the launches are from the confectionery category.