Page 47 - Plastics News - January 2024

2024’s eco-wave: vegan packaging trends reshape the market

can help assure consumers that the
product meets vegan standards, and
they won’t expect any of the potential
issues listed above.
The correct materials for vegan pack-
aging
To be a manufacturer of vegan pack-
aging it all starts with carefully choos-
ing the right suppliers and materials.
There are several options suitable for
vegan food items, which align with
both ethical and practical considera-
tions.
Attaining materials from vegan veri-
fied suppliers, is an excellent starting
point, as it ensures there are no ani-
mal derived ingredients used in pack-
aging manufacturing like animal-based
he introduction of 1,610 new ve- ents during processing, especially in glues or certain dyes that may contain
Tgan offerings in 2023 reflected a shared facilities or equipment used for animal byproducts.
rising demand for sustainable, value- both vegan and non-vegan products.
driven, and ethically produced foods. Packaging experts must exercise cau- Source options like compostable plas-
As we inch closer to 2024, trend fore- tion, when selecting adhesives for tics, paper, and plant-based fibres
that can break down naturally with-
casts point to plant-based eating as a laminates or sealing cartons in the out harmful residues. When possible,
cornerstone of the modern diet. context of vegan products. Adhesives choose glass or metal containers that
More than 1,610 new vegan products used for carton sealing in vegan prod- are highly recyclable and inert, mini-
and menus were launched in 2023 ucts should unequivocally steer clear mising chemical interactions with the
alone and overall, studies found con- of gluten, bone glue, and casein de- packaged product.
sumers are looking for simpler, less rived from animal byproducts. Tupperware-style containers or reus-
processed foods that lean into value Other components involved in pack- able pouches made from silicone or
and sustainability. aging, including lacquers, coatings, other food-grade materials offer a
As Veganuary approaches, businesses inks, dyes, and additives intended to sustainable option for packaging ve-
must maintain the highest standards, bolster performance or longevity, are gan foods, especially for products in-
attract wider demographics and keep also a matter of concern for some in- tended for multiple servings.
products safe for consumers. dividuals seeking vegan-friendly pack-
aging solutions. Labelling, traceability, and transpar-
Regulation requirements ency
While not mandatory, businesses can
Vegan businesses should prioritise help put consumers at ease, by ob- Precise and comprehensive labeling
materials that have been certified by taining certifications from recognized of vegan food products holds the po-
reputable organizations and ensure vegan organizations, which can en- tential to boost food sales significantly
materials and processes meet the hance credibility. by eradicating potential confusion for
specific USDA requirements to be eli- consumers.
gible for vegan labelling. Certifications like the Vegan Society’s
Vegan Trademark, Certified Vegan by Businesses are strongly advised to in-
This also means companies must take Vegan Action, or the European Veg- corporate detailed and precise labels
precautions to prevent cross-contam- etarian Union’s Vegan Flower label on their products, ensuring compli-
ination with animal-derived ingredi- ance with essential legal requirements.

PLASTICS NEWS 4747
January 2024 PLASTICS NEWS