Agricultural packaging is a fairly broad term that refers to the various types of materials that are used to store and transport agricultural produce. This can include freshly harvested crops and animal feed. Agricultural packaging is designed with farmers and distributors in mind, with a wide array of options to choose from. This type of packaging can include hard containers and crates for storing delicate produce like fruits and vegetables, alongside jute bags and flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) for housing loose grains and fine materials.
All agricultural packaging is manufactured to safeguard produce, ensuring freshness and extending its shelf life. Many types also feature special filling and discharging options, which make loading and unloading processes far more efficient.
While agricultural packaging types vary, all are designed to meet the same goal. Below are some key elements to look out for when choosing suitable packaging for your agricultural operation.
Material quality counts when selecting agricultural packaging. There are many different types of material to consider. Looking to transport liquid products like milk and oils? Glass jars and bottles are the obvious choice. Need packaging that’s suitable for loose grains? Polythene and polypropylene bags are a good idea. Meanwhile, containers made from mesh material improve breathability, helping keep produce fresh. If you’re searching for eco-friendly alternatives, jute bags are a popular option.
Durability matters when transporting agricultural produce. Items like soft fruits can easily bruise when stored in unsuitable packaging, leading to a subpar product with a lower resale value. Other items can be ruined entirely if housed in second-rate packaging. Robust packaging solutions like flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) and hard containers are ideal if you’re looking to safeguard produce against damage in transit.
For more dangerous materials, recycled plastic packaging is the way to go. Ideal for more demanding requirements where durability is important, you’ll come across many types of plastic containers featuring a significant amount of recycled material.
Other materials used to make UN-approved packaging for dangerous goods include steel, aluminum, and glass. However, these materials can be more difficult to recycle.
Products that don’t arrive at their destination fresh are usually a write-off. As such, it’s important to pick packaging that ensures freshness, regardless of how long food has been in transit. Packaging such as bags made from mesh fabric guarantees breathability, preventing moisture from building up and spoilage settling in. Other options include vacuum-sealed containers if you’re transporting smaller quantities of food items.
Not sure which type of agricultural packaging to invest in? Below are some of the most common types of readily available agricultural packaging.
Searching for the perfect packaging for grains and seeds? There are several suitable solutions. Flexible intermediate bulk containers are ideal for storing and transporting large volumes of things like grains, helping prevent sifting, leakage, and spoilage. Jute bags are another option, offering a desirable combination of durability and sustainability.
If you’re looking to transport harvested crops and fresh produce, protection is key when selecting suitable packaging. Bulk bags made from hard-wearing polypropylene are a good choice for transporting delicate items, helping keep out moisture and pests, while preventing contamination. These durable solutions, alongside other options like hard containers, also ensure produce is protected in transit, preventing bruising and spoilage.
New technological advancements have allowed for all manner of innovations in agricultural packaging. From more hard-wearing packaging materials to enhancements that allow for automation, technology has redefined packaging in the agricultural sector and can dramatically benefit your operation.
Materials are improving all the time. Take polypropylene bags as an example. Refinements to the manufacturing process are allowing for better packaging materials that are both more lightweight and durable. As well as improvements to materials themselves, technological enhancements like temperature control sensors help prevent spoilage and waste.
If you’re looking to make your operation more efficient and cut costs, it’s time to embrace automation. By automating your packing processes with machinery and doing away with time-intensive manual processes, you can dramatically increase speed-to-market times. This results in fresher produce making its way to customers while allowing you to expand your operation and slash expenditure.
Sustainability is now a central concern for most businesses. One of the easiest ways you can make your operation a greener one is to embrace eco-friendly agricultural packaging.
This is an obvious one if you’re looking to curb your carbon footprint and integrate more environmentally friendly practices into your organization. Packaging options like jute bags are particularly eco-friendly as they’re made from wholly natural and biodegradable materials. However, even containers made from things like polypropylene can become part of a sustainable operation. Packaging made from partly recycled materials is a planet-friendly choice, while the durability of things like bulk bags can further improve your green credentials.
If you’re looking to reduce waste in your operation, look at the packaging you’re using. Specially, consider how packaging can be repurposed. Many types of packaging, including rigid containers, can be reused many times before needing to be disposed of. When the time comes to retire packaging, it’s far more eco-friendly to recycle. Many types of packaging material, from paper and cardboard to polypropylene can be recycled, making for a greener and more carbon-conscious business.
At Codefine, you’ll find an impressive selection of agricultural bags and packaging available to suit every business. From container liners and small polypropylene bags to ventilated packaging and dustproof containers, you’ll find everything you need to redefine everyday processes.
Feel free to explore the full range online today, or contact the team to discuss your requirements in more detail.
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