Snack packs target circularity, convenience remains key

While the COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged some fruit and veg producers to revert to plastic packaging to quell consumer hygiene concerns, others continue exploring alternatives to non-recyclable single-use plastics. This demand has led to innovation in paper-based and biodegradable packaging solutions, as well as recycle-ready fossil-based plastic designs.

The festive period is an essential time for companies to capitalize on consumers’ spirit of generosity and boost sales through limited-edition flavors and seasonal packaging launches. While Christmas-themed offerings are found across various categories, more than half of the launches are in the confectionery category (Global, July – Nov 2020).

Plastics continue to dominate the dairy packaging industry. Environmental sustainability and product freshness are the primary concerns for dairy producers, with more than half of recently launched dairy products being made with recyclable packaging materials and/or reclosable features, according to Innova Market Insights.

While Halloween-themed offerings are found across various categories in limited-edition flavors or seasonal packaging design, nearly two-thirds of all F&B launches are from the confectionery category, followed by bakery, which account for one-fifth of all launches.

The summer holidays are coming to an end, heralding in a new school year for millions of children across the globe. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted strongly on launch activity for lunchbox-ready products, with much of the global population working or studying from home. The launch activity for lunchbox-friendly packaging has reduced by 40 percent when comparing H1 2020 to H1 2019. The top five categories for lunchbox-friendly launches are bakery, cereals, dairy, snacks and soft drinks, which account for nearly three-quarters of all launches.

Plastic continues to dominate the ready meals segment, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all launches globally within the category, according to Innova Market Insights. In 2019, almost half of all ready meals were packaged in packets, while trays account for a quarter of all launches. Innovation has turned toward the increased use of post-consumer recycled materials and the replacement of non-recyclable materials with easily recyclable or compostable materials.