Entries tagged with “packaging”
Articles
18 articles found for packaging:
- Beyond Plastic: Embracing Sustainable Packaging Alternatives
There is a major global shift away from plastic packaging toward other sustainable alternatives. This is driven by increasing environmental concerns and growing recognition of the detrimental impact of plastic waste on the ecosystem. There is a need and demand for more sustainable solutions.
- Nanoclay – A Feasible Alternative for Food Packaging Industry?
Incorporation of nanoclay in polymer is an emerging technology for optimizing food packaging material that can meet the stringent regulations imposed on packaging industry. However, a few challenges are associated with its use in food packaging industry. If these challenges can be successfully overcome, nanoclay technology will be widely adopted.
- Global Market Opportunity for Bio-Based Resins
Bio-based resin is being increasingly adopted across industries as the need for sustainability has risen. Bio-based resins, made from partially or wholly plant-derived monomers, offer a sustainable and carbon-positive approach for consumers and manufacturers shifting to a bioeconomy model from highly-priced and depleting fossil fuel ingredients. Government regulations have also boosted their application. Successful commercialization is leading to the growth of bio-based resin throughout the world.
- Nurturing Sustainability Across the Supply Chain
It has become increasingly imperative for companies to embed sustainability throughout the supply chain. Companies are recognizing the need to connect with their tier-1 and tier-2 suppliers, adopting measures such as decarbonization initiatives and incorporating green packaging materials. By doing so, they aim to reduce their environmental impact and create a more sustainable value chain. Through collaborative approaches and the involvement of experts, organizations are better positioned to navigate the complexities of sustainability and make meaningful progress in embedding sustainability across their entire supply chain.
- PFAS Sourcing Challenges – Alternatives on the Rise
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used for their unique properties, face heightened scrutiny due to health and environmental concerns. Their persistence in the environment and links to adverse health effects have led to regulatory actions globally. Industries such as food packaging, coatings and paints, chemicals, cosmetics and personal care, and electronics using PFAS are recommended to adopt safer alternatives, stay up to date on regulations, and follow responsible management practices. Proactive measures can mitigate the environmental impact, safeguard public health, and ensure business sustainability amid increasing PFAS challenges.
- Industrial Bio-Oils Take Center Stage in Sustainable Shift from Synthetic Oils
Organizational time-bound sustainability targets and attempt to build resilience by finding ways to minimize the impact of market/price volatility have been pushing companies to realign their business practices. It is time for chemicals, paints & coatings, CPG, and packaging companies to revisit their raw material sourcing spectrum by considering sustainable alternates - Industrial bio-oils! Global companies across industries have been actively transitioning from synthetic oils to bio-oils considering their performance is superior or comparable at the minimum. In lieu of the growing demand, the supply is poised to grow robustly with rising investments from prominent suppliers. Therefore, to drive sustainability across the sourcing value chain, it is imperative for procurement heads to leverage the expanding supply and gain a competitive position in the market.
- Canned Cocktails: A Rising Trend
The traditional practice of enjoying cocktails at bars or lounges limited their accessibility to special occasions and exclusive venues. The art of mixing cocktails required expertise and practice, making them less readily available everywhere. However, a new trend has emerged in recent years that has revolutionized the cocktail industry – canned cocktails. While Europe and the US had canned cocktails available since 2000, COVID-19 gave a boost to this segment in other regions as well. The product is slowly gaining popularity in Asia as well and is estimated to have a strong growth trend.
- Shrinkflation in the US
Shrinkflation is a form of inflation where companies reduce the product size, quantity, or quality to maintain or increase their profit margins. A common practice during high inflationary periods, shrinkflation is preferred when companies are hesitant to raise product prices amid rising operating costs. To avoid facing consumer backlash, companies sneakily practice shrinkflation, which, coupled with consumer ignorance, makes it hard to detect. Consequently, consumers may end up purchasing two packets of a product, for example, if its size is reduced by fourth. Thus, shrinkflation may not only help in maintaining margins but also boost sales. When accused of shrinkflation, companies may give several reasons such as health, environment, and better value addition. Inflation is transparent, but shrinkflation is underhanded and thus could be difficult to calculate and tackle.
- Bioplastics - A Sustainable Alternative to Conventional Plastics
Conventional plastics are a major cause of marine pollution. Bioplastics, made from renewable sources, are emerging as a popular alternative. The ban on single-use plastics and increasing demand from industries drive their adoption. However, challenges like economies of scale and limited composting facilities exist. Stronger legislation and incentives are needed for widespread use. Bioplastics offer a sustainable solution to reduce plastic waste.
- Towards a Greener Future: The Rise of Eco-Friendly Disposable Hygiene Products
Disposable absorbent hygiene products are becoming more popular among people of all ages and socioeconomic groups. Campaigns for public education, wider availability of the goods, and enhanced marketing initiatives have contributed to normalizing the use of these products and lowering the stigma attached to them. There is a rise in the need for absorbent hygiene products, notably those for adult incontinence, as many nations' populations are getting older. The need for disposable absorbent hygiene products has been influenced by contemporary lifestyles, which include busy schedules, lengthy workdays, and substantial travel.
- Business Innovations – Winning Strategies
Today, the new brands entering the market are not only designing innovative products but also devising enticing ways to market them. Business innovation involves implementing new ideas and thoughts to help a company achieve its objectives and boost its bottom line. A series of new startups has adopted this concept and are making their mark in the industry.
- Revamping R&D Strategies as Per the New Normal
While countries struggle with macroeconomic issues and geopolitical tension, companies need to revamp themselves to maintain business continuity. Businesses are already fighting to survive, with pressure from economic downturn, global inflation, supply chain disruptions due to war situations, and climate changes. Is there a game plan that can help them not only ride out this tough time but also thrive?
- The Fresh Bakeries Trend: Meeting Consumer Demand through Quality and Differentiation
The bakery industry has witnessed a remarkable shift in consumer behavior, leading to the rise of fresh bakeries as a thriving trend. Today's consumers are increasingly seeking fresh, high-quality bakery products offering unique and memorable experiences. With a focus on quality, differentiation, and being updated on customer demand, fresh bakeries have carved a niche for them in the market. However, whether it is a short-term phenomenon, or a long-term trend is yet to be seen.
- CRISPR Therapeutics – Transforming Healthcare
CRISPR technology has been gaining prominence as a realistic treatment option for genetic diseases. Major recent licensing activity is seen from pharmaceutical companies that are also investing in startups in this domain. While technology could revolutionize healthcare, especially for genetic diseases, it has its shortcomings and research is ongoing to address them for wider adoption of CRISPR.
- Semiconductor Shortage – A Roadblock to Auto OEMs’ EV Launch Plan
Semiconductor shortage was caused by the cascading effect of the pandemic and is expected to continue for the next few years. This global shortage has negatively affected the auto industry. Therefore, the industry has undertaken certain steps to overcome this crisis and get back on track.
- Millets – The New Super Crop
Millets, often referred to as "food grains of the poor," are grown and consumed worldwide. Currently, there is a renewed interest in millets due to their numerous health benefits, low environmental impact, and adaptability to diverse growing conditions. In fact, the United Nations declared 2023 as the “International Year of Millets”, highlighting the importance of these crops for food security and sustainable development. This is expected to increase the demand for millets globally and create new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs in the millet value chain.
- The Rise of High-Pressure Processing
High pressure processing (HPP) technology is witnessing rapid growth in the food and beverage industry. Consumer demand for fresh, minimally processed foods with longer shelf life; the need for safer and healthier food products; and the rise of HPP-processed functional foods are driving the HPP market.
- Non-Conventional Caffeinated Drinks: Innovative Alternatives for Caffeine Fix
In today's fast-paced world, coffee and tea continue to be staple beverages staples for people worldwide. However, with growing innovation in production, beverage manufactures are offering caffeinated alternatives such as ready-to-drink tea/coffee and energy drinks in varied flavors, functional blends and low caffeine which has altered consumer preferences.