Packaging: Food Cycle Technology Source Books

Packaging can perform three functions: it acts as a container; it helps to protect against damage and spoilage; and it can communicate information about the contents. Packaging discusses these functions in detail and looks at traditional and mechanized packaging systems for use by small-scale producers. Case studies from around the world examine the introduction of improved packaging technology, and there are useful lists of manufacturers and organizations which can help small businesses.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS vi

PREFACE 1

INTRODUCTION 2

1 The importance of packaging 3

Principles of packaging 4

Health and safety 6

Types of packaging materials 7

Constraints to adequate packaging 7

Packaged food classification 8

Socio-economic considerations 9

2 Traditional food packaging systems 12

Plant materials 12

Animal-based containers 16

Earthenware 16

Wood 16

3 New packaging materials and techniques 18

Paper packaging 18

Metal containers 21

Glass containers 23

Caps and closures 24

Plastics 27

Summary 31

4 Case studies 33

Packaging kitul treacle, Sri Lanka 33

Yoghurt packaging, Sri Lanka 34

Packaging of tea, Peru 34

Cashew nut packaging, Honduras 35

Fruit juice and jam packaging, Ghana 36

Appendix 38

Alternative trading organizations 38

Packaging research institutes 39

Other useful addresses 41

BIBLIOGRAPHY 42