Advantages of plastic packaging you probably didn’t know about

In recent years, theories highlighting the harmful nature of plastic have gained significant traction. However, it is important to understand that the real issue is not the material itself, but rather the lack of recycling. In fact, plastic packaging offers numerous advantages and provides significant added value. Want to learn more? Then keep reading.

What are the advantages of plastic packaging?

The use of plastic packaging across various industries and sectors offers many benefits—important factors to consider when deciding on the most suitable type of packaging.

It provides transparency and consumer safety

One of the primary advantages of plastic packaging—and one highly valued by consumers—is the rigorous testing it must undergo to ensure it is safe for contact with food. This makes it a highly regulated and completely safe option for end users.

It ensures food safety

Another advantage of using plastic packaging is that it helps prevent foodborne illnesses. This is due to the barrier that plastic creates against pests and microorganisms, preventing them from contaminating the products we consume.

Furthermore, because consumers can examine products without needing to touch them, the risk of contaminating food with pathogens potentially present on our hands is avoided.

It prevents food waste

Plastic is effective at protecting perishable products and extending their shelf life. In this way, we can preserve them for longer and prevent them from spoiling or going to waste.

In fact, according to data from the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), thanks to the use of appropriate plastic packaging, food loss in Europe is only 3%, whereas in other countries where the use of packaging is not as widespread, it can reach as high as 40%.

It is very lightweight

Weight is a key factor for the transport industry; the heavier the products being moved, the higher the fuel consumption—and, consequently, the greater the CO2 emissions. Plastics, however, allow for the creation of extremely lightweight packaging, which helps to reduce pollution.

It can be sterilized and cleaned

The advantages of plastic packaging are not limited to the food industry; it is also a fundamental element in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and medicine.

In these fields, it is vital that packaging can be sterilized and cleaned to eliminate any buildup of dirt or contaminants during the storage and use of products.

It provides protection against moisture

Moisture is harmful to food, but it affects other items as well. It can cause metal products to oxidize or damage electronic components. Plastic packaging, however, is ideal for protecting goods from moisture, thereby preventing damage to transported products and the financial losses that might otherwise occur.

It is a highly versatile material

The versatility of plastic is virtually limitless; it can be adapted to the specific requirements of any food product, type of packaging, or situation.

It has great resistance

It depends somewhat on the specific type of plastic and its individual properties, but in general, containers made from this material are highly impact-resistant and also flexible.

It is recyclable

The near-infinite capacity to recycle plastic is one of the most significant advantages of plastic packaging. Simply placing containers in the correct recycling bin is all it takes to give plastic a new life. By doing so, you contribute to reducing pollution and promoting a circular economy.

Ten Key Advantages of Plastic Packaging

To dispel many of the myths that have emerged regarding the use of plastic, several organizations—AIMPLAS (Technological Institute of Plastics), ANAIP (Spanish Association of Plastics Manufacturers), ANARPLA (National Association of Plastic Recyclers), AVEP (Valencian Association of Plastics Entrepreneurs), CICLOPLAST (an entity that promotes the eco-efficient management of plastics), and PlasticsEurope (European Association of Plastics Manufacturers)—have developed a list of ten key points highlighting the benefits of plastic packaging in today’s society.

You can view the full document here, but here is a preview of the 10 advantages it covers:

• Safety: maximum reliability.”
• Protection: prevents pest infestations during storage.”
• Information: transparent communication.”
• Preservation: experts in food care.”
• Lightweight: a significant benefit.”
• Versatility: adaptable to your needs.”
• Technology: high-tech solutions in your shopping cart.”
• Sustainable innovation: partners in eco-design.”
• Recyclable: plastics can have many lives.”
• Value: every action makes a difference.

Related reading: Flexible packaging: what it is, types and examples and What types of plastic are there?.