Primary packaging

Packaging is a coordinated system made up of any materials of any nature, to be used for preparing goods for containment, protection, transport, handling, distribution, delivery and presentation.

It can include three types of packaging: a) primary, b) secondary and c) distribution (shipping) package. Some authors also determine other types of packaging: d) convenience packaging, e) wasteful packaging

Primary packaging refers to the materials that are in immediate contact with the final product as well as all the packaging that surrounds it when the consumer buys it; in other words, it is the first packaging layer in which the product is contained

As such, primary packaging is constructed both with the product itself and any existing secondary layers of packaging in mind.

This is the first layer containing the finished product, such as a plastic pouch holding whole-grain cereal or the cardboard box containing the pouch of cereal. This type of packaging is often intended for the end user or consumer.

Primary packaging can have diverse applications and functions, depending on the product, and transit and storage variables. The most obvious, and important, function is to protect and preserve the product from damage, external interference or contamination, spoiling and chemical imbalances.

Primary packaging also serves to keep a product in storage, often for long periods of time. The package was also used to count products that could not be counted when unpacked and their package was used as a measure (e.g. bottles, boxes, bags).

The choice of primary and/or secondary packaging materials will depend on the degree of protection required, compatibility with the contents, the filling method and cost.
Primary packaging

Retail containers

Retail containers protect and advertise the food for retail sale and home storage. In the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, companies have always used packaging design to communicate brand values and attract the customer’s eye on crowded shelves.

The package may be designed to enhance the product image and/or to differentiate the product from the competition. Packaging also provides information to the consumer. For example, package labeling satisfies legal requirements for product identification, nutritional value, ingredient declaration, net weight, and manufacturer information.

In retail containers, the size of the package is such that the food contents can suffice the requirement of an individual or a family. Retail container or packaging assists the preservation of the food products through the prevention of product spoilage and wastage, and by protecting products until they have performed their function. The principal roles of packaging are to contain, protect/preserve food and inform the user

It does not involve any packaging exercise at the retail store. So, there is no chance of pilferage or under-weighing at the retail store. It is convenient to carry home.

The exterior of the package is generally decorated with bright coating, diagrams, figures or write-ups with bright inks to attract the attention of consumers at the grocery shop or a food store. Examples of retail containers include metal cans, glass or plastic bottles and jars, plastic tubs, pots and trays, collapsible tube.
Retail containers