The shelf life of food products is intricate since they must go through several steps before reaching retailers and consumers. Thus, food processors must observe quality standards in all aspects of their operations. For example, you can only achieve high levels of value preservation by working with a suitable packaging manufacturer. This article highlights critical considerations food processors must make when choosing a plastic packaging manufacturer.

Tamper Evident Design

The food processing sector is very sensitive; hence, it is highly regulated to protect consumers' health. Notably, food processors must fulfil one requirement: use tamper-evident packaging for all products. Tamper evident packaging refers to closure features that make it obvious if the packaging has been opened or unsealed. Fundamentally, tamper-proof packaging prevents access to food products in a plastic container and leaves evidence of attempted removal or manipulation. However, it is worth knowing that different tamper-evident packaging designs and concepts exist. Thus, you must talk to a manufacturer to find tamper-resistant packaging that suits your food packaging needs.

In-House Tooling

Businesses strive for uniqueness, which can be achieved through different strategies, including packaging. However, making unique plastic packaging requires special tooling, which most manufacturers outsource. Notably, outsourcing the service adds to the overall costs of producing unique plastic packaging for manufacturers, who pass the cost to food processors. Therefore, the most practical way packaging manufacturers can reduce tooling costs is to have an in-house tooling department. Although the initial cost of setting up in-house tooling could be high, the amount of savings, in the long run, justifies the investment. Moreover, in-house tooling allows a manufacturer to design and build packaging tools based on a client's expected sales volume. Ultimately, food processors can save a lot of money by working with packaging manufacturers with in-house tooling capabilities.

Safe Quality Food (SGF) Level 3 Certification 

Compromised quality is never an option for food manufacturers. Therefore, it is essential to work with a packaging manufacturer who stays updated on the current food safety measures. Only plastic packaging manufacturers with Safe Quality Food Level 3 certification can guarantee such quality. The SQF standard promotes food safety and quality management systems in companies that deal with food products and packaging. Plastic packaging manufacturers with the certification stamp all their packaging products with an SQF code for easy recognition by customers. The code informs consumers that your company complies with the highest possible standards when processing, preparing and packaging food products.