Lesson 14: Packaging, labeling and Costing of Food Products
Functions of Food Packaging
Packaging is still another food preservation method. In other words, protection of the food product is a major function of packaging. Packaging is a necessary aid for storage and distribution of food. Packaging must provide the proper environmental conditions right from the start when food is packed till its finally consumed. A good package should therefore carry out following functions:
It should provide a barrier against dirt and other contaminants and keep the product clean.
It should be securely closed to prevent losses or leakage.
It should protect food against any physical and chemical damage due to air, light, insects, and rodents.
It should serve as a material handling tool containing the desired unit amount of food within a single container and may facilitate the assembly of several such units into aggregates.
The packages may also serve as a processing aid.
The package design should provide protection and convenience in handling and transport during distribution and marketing
It should help the customers to identify the food and instruct them how to use it correctly.
It should persuade the consumer to purchase the food.
The package may serve as convenience item for the consumer, e.g. as a drinking utensil, as well as process, storage and distribution container.
Packaging when properly used can be cost saving device.
Package may serve the purpose of portion controlling in certain food items.
Certain package may facilitate dispensing of the product.
Participants