4 Ways to Pivot the Produce Industry

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The produce industry is filled with a range of packaging and presentation methods, all of which have their purposes. But as the demand for sustainability is on the rise and the concern for health and safety has come to the forefront, the industry is being driven in a new direction. Below we’ll cover four areas that producers can hone in on to meet the rising demands of consumers.

Eliminate Harmful Materials

Consumers are looking for sustainability, and producers are listening. Growers and buyers are seeking alternative methods to traditional materials like Styrofoam boards, chipboard sleeves, plastic bags, rubber bands, and full adhesives, all of which can be harmful to the environment, effect shelf life, or be damaging to the product itself.

Increase Traceability

The need for traceability in food has been steadily increasing for years. With contamination outbreaks, recalls, and a growing concern for environmental effects, track-and-trace processes are essential. According to an article by ProducePay, the food traceability market is expected to be valued at $37.9 billion by 2029. Thanks to solutions like on-demand thermal printing, print variable data and never lose track of products again. Getting ahead of the curve now puts you a step in front of the competition.

Reduce Waste

With inefficient or harmful packaging also comes more waste. Waste in the form of packaging materials and food waste from materials which affect a product’s shelf life. Trends in packaging are showing more of a demand for compostable, biodegradable, or eco-friendly materials. While plastic bags, adhesives and other traditional materials can be more convenient, innovators have developed ways to utilize these more beneficial types of materials in packaging while still protecting the product inside. These materials are made of better resources and are able to be used minimally, while still prolonging spoilage.

Enhance Security

The climate of today’s world leaves consumers with a heightened concern for health risks. Shoppers are becoming more hesitant to choose from the heavily picked-through pile of apples or raise eyebrows when they see those bruised and punctured tomatoes. Sustainability is essential, but so is protecting the product, preventing damage and eliminating the spread of germs. By choosing the right packaging, you can hit all the points that consumers are seeking out while avoiding bruising and crushing, making your product more appealing on the shelves.