< PreviousLabelling Systems HERMA Labelling Systems, The Hollands Centre, Hollands Road, Haverhill, Suffolk CB9 8PR Tel. 01440 763366 Email. sales@herma.co.uk Web: www.herma.co.uk With over 100 years of experience, HERMA have a wealth of knowledge in providing labelling solutions that meet customer needs, contact HERMA to find out how they can assist you with your product labelling requirements. 20 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net PACKAGING SPOTLIGHT origin, providing a bridge between regulatory compliance and streamlined packaging design. While AR presents an innovative solution, it’s essential to acknowledge potential limitations, such as excluding consumers without access to touch screen devices. Nevertheless, this digital approach represents a significant step in the digitisation of the consumer experience, aligning with the increasing emphasis on smart labels that enhance supply chain traceability. The conversation around reducing plastic packaging, especially for fresh produce, is gaining momentum, driven by consumer and activist demands. However, simply removing packaging from the supply chain is not a panacea; instead, the focus should be on creating sustainable, eco-friendly, and recyclable alternatives. Fresh produce, in particular, presents a unique challenge, and one exciting solution gaining traction is edible coatings. Edible coatings, when applied to the surface of fruits and vegetables, serve multiple purposes. They not only protect produce during transit but also reduce spoilage, extending shelf life and contributing to the reduction of food waste. The exploration of edible coatings exemplifies the industry’s commitment to finding innovative and sustainable solutions to address the environmental impact of packaging. In a market characterised by increasing product launches, premium shelf space competition, and the emergence of start-ups challenging major brands, packaging becomes a powerful tool for differentiation. Manufacturers are revisiting packaging design from branding and aesthetics to shape and materials, seeking to convey their sustainability messages and credentials to discerning consumers. A package made from recycled material not only aligns with environmental goals but also becomes a selling point, allowing manufacturers to stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace. The evolution of packaging aesthetics serves as a fascinating reflection of changing consumer preferences. Once dominated by vibrant colours and bold graphics, modern packaging has embraced softer, natural hues. This shift mirrors the growing consumer preference for cleaner and more wholesome food options. Gone are the days of overstimulating packaging; today’s designs embody a more sophisticated and restrained approach, aligning with info@macpac.co.uk Tel: 0161 442 1642 www.macpac.co.uk THERMOFORMED PACKAGING SPECIALISTS We design, produce tooling and manufacture packaging all under one roof, at our AA grade BRC accredited factory. We use responsible manufacturing processes and raw materials with up to 100% recycled content as well as being 100% recyclable. UP TO 100% RECYCLED 100% RECYCLABLE Innovative, Economical & Responsible. UK MANUFACTURER Food & Drink International 21 www.fdiforum.net PACKAGING SPOTLIGHT © stock.adobe.com/Anna Khomulo the desire for transparency and simplicity in product representation. Packaging is not a static vessel, but one that narrates the story of the industry at large. The driving forces behind this evolution are environmental concerns, evolving legislation, and growing health consciousness. The ongoing transformation in packaging is emblematic of a time of rapid innovation and development in the food and drink industry. This evolution touches every facet of the value chain, presenting challenges and opportunities for designers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike. As food and drink undergo profound changes, so too does the packaging sector, adapting to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.22 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net KITE PACKAGING Q&A Can you tell us a little about Kite Packaging and what you do? Kite Packaging specialises in packaging solutions, providing a wide range of products and services for businesses covering various industries and sectors. With over 2,500 stock products, such as boxes, tape, and pallet wrap, and 11 sites dotted around the country, we are strategically positioned to meet the nuanced packaging needs of businesses across the UK. We also work closely with companies through our bespoke service to create custom packaging tailored to their particular needs and supply chains. Whether this means producing packaging for specific product protection and presentation, designing and delivering branded materials, or looking at customers’ current packs for redesign and rationalisation opportunities, our specialists can elevate your brand through smart, streamlined packaging practices. Supported by our Mobile Packaging Laboratory, a unique offering in the industry which is equipped to an exceptionally high standard, we bring the latest technologies and advancements in packaging straight to our customers’ doorsteps. This allows us to engage directly with their supply chains and processes, enabling us to address any packaging challenges that our customers may encounter and deliver the best solutions for their needs. What types of industrial food packaging solutions do you offer for bulk or large-scale food production? Our expertise within the industry lies in indirect packaging, with a focus on enhancing the display and aesthetic appearance of consumer food products. Kite’s shipping containers, outer sleeves, and retail-ready cartons not only ensure goods are well-protected, but also contribute to their visual presentation and appeal. Q&A Kite Packaging This month we have a chat with Kite Packaging to see how the packaging landscape has been changing.Food & Drink International 23 www.fdiforum.net KITE PACKAGING Q&A How do your industrial food packaging products comply with food safety regulations and industry standards? Our storage facilities have earned an AA+ rating for BRCGS accreditation, emphasising our commitment to maintaining the highest food-grade standards for the storage of our food packaging. We voluntarily participated in an unannounced BRCGS audit to demonstrate our confidence in the daily implementation of food safety practices and procedures in our facilities. What steps do you take to make your products recyclable or made from sustainable materials? As a certified carbon neutral company, we are committed to minimising our impact on the environment. From maximising the use of recycled and recyclable materials in our products to using suppliers who recognise their environmental responsibilities, we take a proactive approach to helping our customers become leaner and greener users of packaging. Whether that’s through offering free pallet wrap audits, or ensuring the availability of eco-friendly packaging alternatives, such as our award-winning corrugated insulated box liners, we are here to empower businesses we work with to become the sustainable future we envision. What options do you offer for bulk ordering of packaging? All of our products are available for bulk purchase orders, with discounted price points for increasing pack and pallet quantities. Aside from wholesale discounts and bulk ordering, we offer a number of supply solutions, including stock and serve, JIT, direct line feed and vendor managed packaging to ensure customers’ needs are catered to. Businesses can also sign up for a credit account, giving them the freedom to buy their packaging supplies whenever they need and pay for these at a later date. For major multi-site accounts, Kite has a team of dedicated key account managers assisted by a team of highly experienced packaging technologists to ensure our customers get what they need, when they need it with the best possible outcome. For more information or to get in touch with Kite Packaging, visit www.kitepackaging.co.uk, email enquiries@kitepackaging.co.uk or call +44 (0) 24 7642 0065 We offer a comprehensive range of industrial food packaging solutions designed to meet the highest standards of hygiene and quality. These accommodate different temperature requirements, including chilled, ambient, and frozen, to ensure the integrity and freshness of your perishable goods. Within the range are corrugated and foil insulated box liners, ice packs, thermal pallet covers, and temperature- controlled pouches. Other indirect bulk food protection products in Kite’s catalogue include ventilated and blue pallet wrap. These are available as hand and machine wraps, catering to both small and large companies whilst providing an opportunity for upscaling for growing businesses. While blue pallet wrap is a widely recognised packaging staple in the food industry, ventilated pallet wrap is also a must have thanks to its ability to mitigate the build up of moisture and condensation. Its perforated surface grants airflow, keeping perishable palletised goods fresher for longer and increasing their shelf life. Equally good for maintaining freshness of food products and extending their shelf life are our vacuum products. These include vacuum chamber machines, pouches, and standard and industrial sealers, providing everything an industrial food supplier may need for vacuum sealing in one convenient place. 24 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net READY MEALS T hese precooked and conveniently packaged meals offer a hassle-free alternative for individuals who find themselves without the time or inclination to whip up daily dishes from scratch. The global ready meals market has seen a substantial surge, reaching a staggering $149.21 billion in 2023. Projections for the forecast period from 2024 to 2032 anticipate a continued growth at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 4.9%, with the market’s value poised to soar to approximately $230.24 billion by 2032. The North American region plays a substantial role in this culinary revolution, with the fast- paced urban lifestyle propelling demand. As market tastes shift, the offerings must shift with it. Expect to see expanded “healthy” ranges, innovative eco-friendly packaging, and more global food offerings, amongst others. These forward-thinking measures not only cater to the evolving tastes of consumers but also contribute to a positive outlook for the continuous expansion of the ready meals market. At the forefront of market dynamics lie two key catalysts driving the continued growth: the convenience of product testing facilities nestled within supermarkets, and a perceptible shift in consumer inclinations toward ready-to- eat fare, a lifestyle response particularly associated with the young population. Chilled and frozen meals have held the spotlight in recent years, and this shows no signs of stopping. However, consumer tastes are continuing to expand. Despite the prevailing penchant for a westernized lifestyle, individuals are eager to explore culinary delights from diverse ethnicities such as Indian, Thai, and Italian. Unsurprisingly, the frozen pizza is the current favourite and most widely consumed ready meal on the global market, cementing Italian food as the Western cuisine of choice. Although Eastern offerings are set to increase in popularity, the not-so humble pizza is projected to remain the frontrunner during the forecast period. As the drivers of the market, a new trend is emerging amongst the 18-35 Outlook for the ready meal market from 2024-2032 In the fast-paced landscape of modern living, ready meals have become the culinary saviours for those navigating through hectic schedules. Food & Drink International 25 www.fdiforum.net READY MEALS age group—the rise of the “foodie.” This demographic not only seeks convenience in ready meals but elevates their expectations, demanding flavours, and nutritional benefits on par with home-cooked meals. The intersection of this discerning demographic with the ready meals market creates a fascinating dynamic where taste and nutritional excellence become paramount. As alluded to above, the market is also benefiting from an escalating fascination with health and wellness trends, particularly the surging popularity of vegan, gluten-free, and organic diets. This shift towards healthier choices doesn’t just signify a change in eating habits; it’s a lucrative avenue for market growth. As players in the ready meals industry vie for market dominance, their strategies have taken on an innovative edge in terms of popular dietary practices. Whether it’s the allure of vegan, Mediterranean, paleo (the diet presumed to have been eaten by early humans), or other nutritious options, consumers are © stock.adobe.com/DAVID 26 Á26 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net READY MEALS gravitating towards these choices in increasing numbers. Packed with a bounty of vitamins, minerals, lean proteins, and antioxidants, these delicious meals also offer a plethora of health benefits, making them a top choice among fitness enthusiasts. Ultimately, the ready meals market is beginning to appeal to those working around a dedicated gym schedule. Due to this, targeted “bulking” meals are set to trend alongside already prevalent weight loss offerings. Continuing the trend towards healthy choices, more individuals are veering towards organic ready-made meals. The allure lies in their freedom from artificial additives, chemicals, and pesticides, which can hinder the nutritional benefit. Beyond taste, consumers now seek functional benefits from their food choices (such as antioxidants or healthy bacteria) sparking a surge in demand for healthy, natural, and safe ready meals. This shift is particularly evident in the rise of organic alternatives, as health-conscious consumers meticulously select their meals to ward against preventable diseases. The trust and perception of organic products as healthy contribute significantly to their value in the market. In the forecast market, products have a greater chance of success when they can boast qualities beyond convenience and portability. Take weight loss ready meals for example. Those seeking to lose weight are also typically after a healthier lifestyle too. Positioning ready meals as verified natural products, which are perfectly portioned to serving size, will appeal much more to the target consumer. Market players will increasingly align their output with this shift, emphasizing the provision of Food & Drink International 27 www.fdiforum.net READY MEALS healthy, organic, and environment- friendly food. This trend is also starting to take shape within the packaging landscape. Green packaging solutions, including paper containers, and PVC and PE stretch films, are gaining prominence in the ready meals segment, due to their ability to be recycled. Soon, all market leaders will need to follow suit, reflecting the consumer preference for brands which demonstrate a broader commitment to environmental responsibility. A noteworthy example is the move by Conagra Brands Inc.’s Evol, which, in April 2022, became the first frozen food brand to offer carbon-free certified carbon-neutral meals, setting a new standard in sustainability. Despite the market’s positive outlook, industry leaders should be wary of resting on their laurels. Whilst Covid-19 was responsible for an upsurge in ready meal sales, as consumers scrambled to stockpile amidst supply chain issues, its’ aftermath could also prove a significant restraining factor to further growth. The effects of pre-existing health conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure on Covid-19 are well documented, resulting in an ever increasingly health-conscious society. Despite continued improvements in the nutritional value of ready meals, the nature of ready meals necessitates high levels of salt and other preservatives. Fresh meal kit services like Hello Fresh offer a more nutritious (although higher cost) alternative and are certainly worthy of continued industry monitoring. The ready meal market is set to do nothing but grow over the next 8 years. The key for those in the industry is to act on the predicted trends, as the research shows that brands stagnate product innovation at their peril. If this can be achieved, the industry is theirs for the taking. Apply Now… 0044 (0) 20 8446 7127 info@halalfoodauthority.com www.halalfoodauthority.com London - Ireland - Belgium EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES Get Halal Certified Halal Food Authority is an industry leading Halal Food Certification Company. We specialise in Halal Certification of Food and Non-Food items including cosmetics, logistics, chemicals, additives & aromas, cleaning substances, packaging, pharmaceutical, ingredients and much more. Our certification is globally recognised including GCC countries and other developing markets such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Turkiye, Pakistan and rest of the world. © stock.adobe.com/Monkey Business © stock.adobe.com/William28 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net LOADING BAYS AND DOORS In the intricate dance of technology and logistics within warehouses, loading bays emerge as the unsung heroes, serving as both gateways and defences in the food industry’s critical journey from production to consumer. Fortifying theFood & Drink International 29 www.fdiforum.net LOADING BAYS AND DOORS © stock.adobe.com/id512 W arehouses operate on unifying forward-thinking software with practical technological applications. Loading bays and doors are critical connectors in this orchestration, as the food industry’s gateways between manufacture and consumer. Their significance lies in their role as entry points into the food chain, acting as the connective tissue between warehouses, logistics, and suppliers. But it’s at these critical junctures that products are most vulnerable, susceptible to contamination and other sources of adulteration. Contamination, an omnipresent threat, can find ways in throughout the supply chain if due care isn’t taken at every step. Loading bays serving as doorways, but also as defences, emphasise the importance of maintaining hygiene levels on par with deterring theft. To better enable cleanliness, loading bays are designed with smooth surfaces, often resembling an extension of the production line, with attention to hygienic principles such as rounded corners. The loading process should be treated as a continuation of the production line too, with thorough care applied to cleanliness. Regular wash- downs are imperative to minimise the threat of contaminants, and ensuring trucks are regularly cleaned, both inside and out, further fortifies defences. A comprehensive washdown should also include bay doors, emphasising the significance of good design, which can make a substantial difference in reducing downtime and preventing the accumulation of dirt. Even so, environmental factors, including wind and rain, pose persistent threats to loading bays. Balancing the advantages of lightweight materials for constant opening and closing with the ability to withstand high winds becomes crucial. Investing in weatherproof doors is paramount to avoid halting operations on any bay, a 30 ÁNext >