Physical protection of food packaging

One of the main objective of the packaging of food is to protect it against spoilage or deterioration due to physical damage, among other things, shock, vibration, compression, temperature , etc.

During product life, particularly in storage, distribution and consumer handling, products are subjected to vibration on vehicles, compressive loads during stacking in warehouses and sudden jolts and knocks.

Physical damage can be caused by compression during storage and transport. Special care should be exercise in handling cases containing packs of frozen products.

The packaging protects food from mechanical damage during supply and distribution. Physical barriers resist impact, abrasion and crushing damage, so they can be used as shipping containers and as packaging for delicate foods.

The carton itself gives physical protection and protection against moisture and oxygen transfer is provided by a barrier overwrap or a sealed inner pouch or liner.

For fragile products that are susceptible to crushing, such as breakfast cereals and biscuits the outer carton provides protection from physical damage and from potential tampering.

Physical protection of food packaging