Looking for a new packaging solution for powdered and granulated products?

Here are some tips on how to choose the best from the many options.

Are you a manufacturer of powdered or granulated products looking for innovative, practical and eco-friendly packaging solutions to revamp your pack and stand out from the competition?
To make the best decision in this complex field, it’s important to keep the following considerations in mind:

1) PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS

The first thing to consider is the product characteristics, both in terms of grain size and the chemical and organoleptic properties, as these all have a direct effect on packaging choices.

For example, very fine powdered products such as flour and detergents, and also hygroscopic products like fructose or soluble coffee, and others such as cornflakes and cereals, need airtight packaging that provides a high degree of protection from moisture and pests.

CHOOSING THE MATERIAL

We know the market is constantly changing, subject to fluctuations and fads. In recent years in particular there’s been a growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging. The first step is to contact a reliable carton supplier who can recommend the most suitable type of paperboard to meet your needs. In fact, not many people know that paperboard is a sustainable material and paperboard cartons can be produced now with the most advanced technological solutions.

TECHNICAL PAPERBOARD INNOVATIONS

There are many different types of paperboard. Some have special, ultra-thin internal films made of plastic, bioplastic or aluminium so the pack provides a high degree of protection against moisture, preserving the organoleptic qualities of the product inside. This packaging complies with European paper recycling regulations.

Another advantage is that these inner films can be shaped differently to the die-cut fold of the carton cutting die, with additional benefits as we’ll see below.

First, as the corners are usually the weak point for product spills, leaving the inner film longer than the die cut flaps provides an added guarantee that even very fine products will be protected and won’t leak out.

Second, the thin plastic or bioplastic film can be used to create special "windows," to show the product inside the package. These solutions are ideal for special salts, rice, herbs or spices, where the bright colours and cheerful products can be additional levers to win over consumers and reassure them of the quality of the product in the pack.

HERMETIC CARTON SEALING and MACHINES

Today, there are a number of different technical solutions for hermetically sealing cartons and boxes. One example is Nordson's patented sift-proof seal, on which the flaps of the carton are glued together to create a moisture-proof seal guaranteeing product quality.

Our customer Régilait has been producing milk powder in cartons without a bag-in-box for years; proof the sift-proof seal works.

In addition to this type of seal, there’s also the Airbox system, in which internal paper strips are applied to prevent product leaking from corners and any possible infestations of insects. Your packaging line supplier can recommend the most suitable and cost-effective solution.

2) GOALS AND USER EXPERIENCE

In addition to the physical characteristics and product properties, another essential aspect to be considered is the goal to be achieved.

PACKAGING AS A COMMUNICATION TOOL

Over the years, packaging has evolved from being a simple container to becoming an effective communication tool. So packaging is a vehicle for the brand's corporate values and a prime example of how trustworthy it is. Strong, practical packaging, on which ample space is devoted to communication, with features that stand out from the competition, are essential to convey quality for a customer-focused brand.

PACKAGING AS AN EXPERIENCE

In addition to these communication aspects, it’s vital to consider the user experience of the consumer looking for the latest packaging solutions. Packaging that is easy to open and reseal therefore represents a big advantage over the competition because it lets the customer save time and makes using the pack a positive experience. Likewise, a pack with an internal measuring system can be used to quickly and simply replace single-dose packaging.

MARKET RESEARCH

Several market research studies, like the one done by TNS Marketing, show consumers look for easy-to-open packaging that seals effectively again when closed. Practical, hermetic closing increases the perception of added value in a pack: in fact, the test showed 91.7% of the sample thought the hermetic seal on a pack with a dispensing spout was a big advantage over a traditional pack. Those interviewed confirmed they would be willing to spend around 40% more for user-friendly packaging with a dispensing spout.