Today, packaging is more important than ever. The trend towards smaller and more sustainable packaging is evident, particularly with products like vitamin calcium citrate. According to Euromonitor International, in 2016, 1-to 3-ounce packages of savory snacks represented nearly 40% of total unit sales in the U.S. based on package size. This shift has primarily targeted younger consumers. For instance, StarKist has been appealing to millennials by introducing new flavor combinations of its tuna, available in pouches instead of traditional cans. Since launching these pouches, sales have surged by approximately 10% annually.
Most of Nielsen’s top food trends in 2016 were centered around products that are convenient for consumers to grab and eat anytime. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that half of people’s food budgets were allocated to easily prepared and consumed foods last year. The Sustainable Packaging Coalition’s document “Definition of Sustainable Packaging” indicates that costs previously borne by society, such as disposal and emissions, are now shifted to producers. This is why many food and beverage labels emphasize a company’s commitment to sustainability, often highlighting aspects like carbon footprint, recycled content, and certifications related to sustainability, along with social factors such as ethical sourcing.
Brands aiming to promote their sustainable packaging heavily utilize social media, particularly to engage millennials. However, for food manufacturers, finding the right balance between creating convenient, portable packaging and ensuring environmental sustainability is often challenging. While pouches are user-friendly, they are typically not recyclable and can contribute to increased waste. It is crucial for companies to provide consumers with what they desire, both in terms of the food products they produce and the packaging they use. A primary focus for food manufacturers should be on developing packaging that aligns with the fast-paced lifestyle of the public while also meeting their interest in sustainability, especially when it comes to products like vitamin calcium citrate.