The Rise of Food-Grade Pet Foods

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In recent years, pet owners have become increasingly conscious of what goes into their pets’ food. This shift towards healthier, high-quality options has given rise to food-grade pet foods—products made from ingredients fit for human consumption. As consumers demand better nutrition for their pets, the market for premium pet food continues to expand.

For emerging brands, the challenge lies in meeting this demand while scaling operations to compete in major retail chains like Costco, Walmart, and pet store chains. One of the most effective strategies for overcoming this challenge is outsourcing co-packing services.

What Are Food-Grade Pet Foods?

Food-grade pet foods go beyond traditional pet food formulations by using ingredients that meet human food standards. These products are made with real meats, vegetables, and grains, often free from artificial additives, preservatives, and by-products.

The trend mirrors the movement toward organic and whole foods in human diets, as consumers seek the same level of care for their pets’ nutrition. Pet owners are willing to pay a premium for these products, opening doors for brands to thrive in a growing market.

Why Scaling Is Essential

For small to medium-sized pet food brands, scaling production is crucial to capitalizing on the demand for food-grade pet products. However, this growth is not without its challenges.

As you attempt to enter major retail channels like Costco, Walmart, and pet store chains, the need for consistent quality, larger production volumes, and logistical expertise becomes even more apparent.

This is where outsourcing co-packing becomes an essential component of your growth strategy.

The Benefits of Co-Packing for Scaling Food-Grade Pet Foods

1. Increased Production Capacity

A co-packing partner can help you scale your production to meet large retail orders without the need for heavy capital investment in new machinery or larger facilities. As food-grade pet foods require specific handling practices to meet strict safety and quality standards, a co-packer with experience in this area can ensure compliance with all regulations while ramping up production.

2. Consistency in Quality and Safety

Ensuring that every batch of food-grade pet food meets the same high standards can be difficult, especially as you expand. A reputable co-packing partner is equipped with quality control measures and food safety practices that ensure consistent, safe, and high-quality output, no matter the scale of production.

This becomes even more crucial as you prepare to enter larger markets with more rigorous standards.

3. Cost Efficiency and Flexibility

Scaling operations often requires significant upfront investment, from machinery to labor. Outsourcing to a co-packer can eliminate much of this financial burden, offering a more predictable cost structure.

This allows your brand to allocate resources to marketing, product development, and distribution. Co-packing also provides the flexibility to scale up or down based on demand, making it easier to adapt to changing market conditions.

4. Expanding into New Markets

Outsourcing co-packing can be the gateway to breaking into large-scale retailers like Costco and Walmart. These retailers expect brands to meet high production quotas without sacrificing quality or consistency.

With a co-packing partner, you can confidently approach these major players, knowing that your supply chain is strong enough to handle their demands.

Additionally, pet store chains have increasingly turned to premium, niche brands as part of their product offering to cater to health-conscious pet owners. A co-packer can help you ensure that your product meets the specific requirements of these stores, from packaging and labeling to meeting the pet food safety standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

5. Faster Time to Market

Launching new products or expanding existing lines into new markets can be time-consuming if you’re handling production in-house. A co-packing partner can streamline this process, providing the equipment, expertise, and workforce to produce and package your food-grade pet products quickly.

With faster time to market, you can seize opportunities in competitive retail spaces before your competitors do.

Econo-Pak: Your Partner in Co-Packing Food-Grade Pet Foods

At Econo-Pak, we specialize in scaling food-grade products, including pet foods, by offering comprehensive co-packing services designed to meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Whether you’re preparing to enter Costco or looking to expand into specialized pet store chains, our expertise in handling high-volume orders and maintaining consistency will help you scale your brand efficiently and effectively.

Our fixed-cost pricing model also provides predictable budgeting, allowing you to focus on growth without worrying about fluctuating production costs.

As a trusted partner, Econo-Pak can help your pet food brand reach its full potential in the competitive retail landscape.

Outsource to Econo-Pak to scale your brand

The demand for food-grade pet foods shows no signs of slowing down. Brands that can scale efficiently, maintain quality, and meet retailer demands will be well-positioned to capture market share in this growing industry.

By partnering with an experienced co-packer like Econo-Pak, your brand can navigate the challenges of scaling production and make a successful leap into major retail markets.

Ready to take your food-grade pet food brand to the next level? Contact us today to learn how co-packing can support your growth.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

How Sequencing SKUs in Food Co-Packing Reduces Costs and Boosts Efficiency

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In food co-packing, efficiency is key to managing costs and meeting production deadlines. One powerful tool to achieve this is sequencing, a process that allows for running multiple SKUs in succession with only partial cleanings between each.

This method can streamline production, reduce costs, and help you hit higher volumes without the time and expense of full machine tear-downs and deep cleaning after every SKU change.

What is sequencing in food co-packing?

Sequencing is the process of scheduling SKUs to run one after the other on the same equipment, with minimal cleaning between them.

For this to work, the SKUs must have similar ingredients and no conflicting allergens. For instance, imagine a project with three different protein powders: plain, vanilla, and vanilla with raspberry. These would be sequenced in that order, with partial cleanings between each run.

This approach minimizes downtime and avoids the need for complete sanitization between SKUs, allowing for a quicker, more cost-efficient production process.

Quality assurance and sequencing

While sequencing reduces the need for full cleaning between SKUs, rest assured that all necessary quality controls and safety protocols are followed at every step. Even with partial cleanings, we maintain strict standards to ensure the integrity of both the machinery and your product. Our team carefully evaluates each SKU to confirm compatibility for sequencing, especially regarding allergens and ingredient overlap.

Throughout the sequencing process, we implement thorough inspections and follow all regulatory guidelines to ensure your product meets the highest safety and quality standards. This ensures your product is not only packaged efficiently but also handled with the utmost care and precision.

Learn more about Econo-Pak’s certifications and our commitment to quality and food safety across the supply chain.

How sequencing benefits your project

Increased production volumes

For many clients, sequencing enables them to reach production volumes that justify the use of automated equipment. The alternative—running smaller batches with full cleanings between each SKU—often doesn't make financial sense. By sequencing similar SKUs, you can run more product without needing to significantly extend production time.

Reduced cleaning and labor costs

A full cleaning between SKUs can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly for large-scale runs. Sequencing minimizes the labor involved in changeovers and cleaning, which in turn reduces the cost of production. This leaner, more efficient process translates into lower quotes for you.

Faster turnaround times

Since sequencing cuts down on cleaning and changeover times, your overall production moves faster. This can make a big difference when tight deadlines are involved, allowing your products to reach the market more quickly.

Is sequencing right for your project?

Not all products are suited for sequencing, and it’s important to work with a co-packer who can assess whether this approach will benefit your project. If your SKUs share common ingredients and don’t have allergen conflicts, sequencing can significantly streamline your production, reduce costs, and help you get more product out the door in less time.

If you’re working with complex or highly varied dry food products that don’t share common ingredients, sequencing may not be a viable option. In these cases, full cleanings between SKUs are necessary to prevent contamination, particularly when dealing with allergens.

Maximize efficiency with smart sequencing strategies

Sequencing is a smart strategy for co-packing projects with similar products. By reducing the need for full cleanings between runs, this approach can lower costs, improve production efficiency, and enable larger production volumes. As a result, you can keep your budget in check while hitting your production goals—without sacrificing safety or quality.

By collaborating with a co-packing partner who understands how to optimize sequencing, you can unlock the full potential of your production line and see meaningful savings in time and cost.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

Unlocking U.S. Market Success for International Food Companies with Econo-Pak

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The U.S. market is one of the most lucrative and competitive spaces for international food and snack companies. However, entering this market comes with its own set of challenges, from navigating stringent regulations to understanding consumer preferences. 

A reliable co-packer like Econo-Pak can be instrumental in helping international brands overcome these hurdles and establish a strong foothold in the U.S. market.

Understanding the U.S. Food Market

The U.S. food and snack market is diverse, with consumers showing a strong preference for convenience, quality, and innovation. The regulatory environment, governed by agencies such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), imposes strict standards that all food products must meet before they can be sold. 

Additionally, consumer expectations are high, with an increasing demand for transparency in labeling, organic options, and unique flavors that cater to various dietary needs.

Challenges for International Food Companies

Entering the U.S. market as an international food company involves more than just exporting products. There are several challenges that need to be addressed:

  • Navigating complex U.S. regulations: International companies must comply with a range of U.S. regulations, including those set by the FDA and USDA. These regulations cover everything from food safety standards to specific ingredient restrictions.

  • Meeting FDA and USDA standards: Ensuring that products meet the stringent standards of these regulatory bodies is crucial. Non-compliance can result in significant fines or product recalls.

  • Addressing labeling and packaging requirements: U.S. consumers expect clear and accurate labeling, including nutritional information, ingredient lists, and allergen warnings. Packaging must also adhere to specific guidelines to ensure safety and shelf life.

  • Overcoming supply chain hurdles: Managing the logistics of importing goods, including customs clearance and distribution, can be complex and costly.

  • Cultural and consumer preference differences: Understanding the local market and adapting products to meet U.S. consumer preferences is essential for success.

The Role of Co-Packers in Market Entry

Co-packers play a pivotal role in helping international food companies navigate the complexities of the U.S. market. A co-packer like Econo-Pak can handle everything from packaging to compliance, allowing companies to focus on their core business. Some of the benefits of using a co-packer include:

  • Streamlined operations: Co-packers manage the packaging process, ensuring that products are packaged efficiently and in compliance with U.S. regulations.

  • Cost-effectiveness: Outsourcing packaging to a co-packer can be more cost-effective than setting up a dedicated packaging facility, especially when scaling production to meet U.S. demand.

  • Scalability: Co-packers can quickly adapt to changes in demand, allowing companies to scale their operations without significant capital investment.

Why Choose Econo-Pak as a Co-Packer?

Econo-Pak is a premier co-packer offering comprehensive packaging solutions tailored to the needs of international food and snack companies. Some of the key advantages of partnering with Econo-Pak include:

  • Extensive services: Econo-Pak provides a wide range of packaging services, including contract food packaging, high-volume co-packing, and custom packaging solutions. Whether it’s flow wrapping, stand-up pouches, or variety packs, we have the expertise to handle diverse packaging needs.

  • Compliance with U.S. Standards: Econo-Pak is fully certified and compliant with U.S. regulations, ensuring that your products meet all necessary standards. This includes FDA, USDA, and other critical certifications required for the U.S. market.

  • Proven track record: Econo-Pak has a history of successful partnerships with international brands, helping them to navigate the complexities of the U.S. market and achieve commercial success.

Econo-Pak’s U.S. Certifications and Audits

For any international food company, ensuring that products meet U.S. regulatory standards is a top priority. Econo-Pak holds all the necessary certifications, including those from the FDA, USDA, and GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative). These certifications not only ensure compliance but also build trust with U.S. consumers who expect the highest levels of food safety.

The audit process at Econo-Pak is rigorous, with regular inspections and updates to maintain compliance with evolving U.S. regulations. This ensures that all products packaged at Econo-Pak meet or exceed the standards required by U.S. law, reducing the risk of non-compliance and enhancing the overall safety and quality of your products.

Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles with Econo-Pak

Navigating the complex regulatory environment in the U.S. can be daunting for international companies. Econo-Pak’s extensive experience with FDA and USDA regulations makes them an ideal partner for ensuring that your products are fully compliant. They assist with everything from ingredient approvals to final product labeling, ensuring that your product is ready for the U.S. market.

Econo-Pak also offers custom contract food packaging solutions that not only comply with U.S. regulations but also cater to consumer expectations. This includes meeting specific labeling requirements, providing clear nutritional information, and ensuring that packaging is both functional and appealing to the U.S. consumer.

Tailored Solutions for Different Market Segments

Different market segments in the U.S. require tailored packaging solutions, and Econo-Pak is equipped to meet these diverse needs. Whether your products are destined for retail, e-commerce, or food service, Econo-Pak provides packaging options that align with the requirements of each segment.

For instance, retail products might require eye-catching packaging with clear branding and nutritional information, while e-commerce packaging needs to be robust enough to withstand shipping. Econo-Pak also specializes in co-packing for niche markets, such as organic or gluten-free products, ensuring that your products stand out in a crowded market.

Econo-Pak’s Technological Capabilities

One of the key advantages of partnering with Econo-Pak is our advanced technological capabilities. We use highly efficient automation systems to ensure high speeds and consistency in the packaging process. This technology allows Econo-Pak to handle high-volume orders with precision, ensuring that every package meets the highest standards of quality.

We’re here to help.

Entering the U.S. market as an international food or snack company is no small feat, but with the right partner, it can be a smooth and successful process. Econo-Pak offers the expertise, certifications, and technological capabilities necessary to help your brand navigate the complexities of the U.S. market. By choosing Econo-Pak as your co-packer, you can focus on what you do best—creating quality products—while they handle the packaging, compliance, and logistics.

If you’re looking to enter the U.S. market, consider partnering with Econo-Pak for a seamless and compliant entry. Contact us today to learn more about how they can help your brand succeed in the U.S. market.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

In-House Packaging vs. Co-Packing Food Products

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With packaging your food product, you have two options: you can keep the packaging process in-house or outsource it to a co-packer.

So how do you know which is best for your business?

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How Robotic Automation Improves Contract Food Packaging

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Robotic automation has changed the game when it comes to contract food packaging by completely transforming the way we do business.

Improvements to automated tech, like reduced costs, higher speeds, and better gripping machinery, have led to the food co-packing industry’s widespread adoption of robots and automated machinery.

Robotic automation in contract food packaging

Sensors, machine vision systems, and sophisticated software that enable packaging robots to perceive and interact with their environment make automated food packaging possible.

These capabilities expand further with the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence. AI can help food-packing robots adapt to changing conditions and learn from experiences over time.

The growing list of robotic capabilities can help improve any food manufacturer’s overall packaging process and efficiency.

Benefits of robotic packaging automation in co-packing

The benefits of automation and using robots in food packaging and manufacturing are significant. For example:

  • Robots produce faster and more consistent work than humans. This can result in the production of uniform products with fewer errors.
  • Robots can handle repetitive tasks well. This means companies don’t have to rely on manual labor as much. Instead, they can hire workers for more skilled roles that require a human touch.
  • Robotic automation can provide long-term savings. It does require upfront expenses to purchase this machinery, but overtime, it can reduce operational labor costs. This makes it a worthy investment.
  • Robots are more sanitary. They don’t carry the same germ-related risks as humans do. They operate in a more controlled way to reduce contamination incidents and improve food safety compliance.
  • Robotic automation can be an eco-friendlier option. Because automation can improve productivity, they reduce material waste. This makes them a sustainable choice for contract food packaging companies like Econo-Pak.

Pick-and-place robots, fully automated packaging systems, or anything in between can help manufacturers improve their operations, save money, reduce risk, and minimize waste.

Econo-Pak’s food co-packing and co-manufacturing equipment

At Econo-Pak, we own over 200 of the best co-packing and co-manufacturing machines so we can proudly provide our clients with automated production output.

We own machines from brands like Adco, Alpha, Bosch, Campbell, Ceco, Langan, Lock, Ohlson, Sesotech, Tishma, Viking, Weighpack, Yamato, and many others.

Types of machinery:

  • Augers
  • Blenders
  • Cartoners
  • Check weighers
  • Cup fillers
  • Flow wrappers
  • Inline printing
  • Metal detection
  • Premade SUP machines
  • Rollstock machines
  • Seasoners
  • VFFS baggers
  • X-ray

And the list doesn’t stop there. Explore our food co-packing equipment to see how we can help you outsource your packaging needs.

Request a quote today to learn how Econo-Pak’s contract food packaging services can unlock new levels of automated productivity and boost your business’s bottom line.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

How Preventative Maintenance, Sanitation, and Engineering Affect Your Food Co-Packing Experience

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Maintaining hygienic, well-engineered, and properly maintained food packaging units is essential for business prosperity and consumer safety. Regular inspections, thorough sanitation, and precise engineering all contribute to a seamless and secure food packaging process.

The importance of maintaining food production facilities

Preventive maintenance (PM) schedules provide a roadmap to address these issues, ensuring equipment reliability, upholding food safety standards, reducing downtime, and preventing breakdowns.

Just as we maintain our homes, regular maintenance and sanitation of packaging equipment is crucial. Inspections and servicing prevent failures that could compromise product integrity, extend equipment life, and avoid costly replacements, leading to long-term savings.

Econo-Pak’s Preventative Maintenance/Machine Sanitation Manager, Scott Small, adheres to stringent protocols to ensure our packaging operations remain in optimal condition to minimize downtime of your product.

How our engineering team enhances your food packaging experience

With our on-site engineers, issues can be identified and resolved immediately, ensuring smooth production with minimal waste.

We keep our machines properly calibrated to detect and address potential glitches before they escalate into serious problems. These measures collectively ensure continuous operation and safe product quality.

Ensuring food safety and sanitation in food packaging

Adhering to food safety regulations is paramount for packaging companies to protect consumers. Failure to follow safety practices can result in contaminated products, posing significant health risks.

Our SQF Level 3 certification and compliance with FDA sanitation provisions demonstrate our commitment to cleanliness and safe operations.

Econo-Pak’s best practices for machinery

Ensuring proper co-packing machinery maintenance and adhering to regulatory guidelines can present challenges for food packaging professionals. To overcome these obstacles, we follow best practices such as:

  • Investing in training programs: We ensure our employees are well-versed in equipment procedures and can manage minor accidents.
  • Upholding hygiene standards: All staff and visitors maintain hygiene standards to protect food products from contamination.
  • Scheduling maintenance during downtime: We conduct maintenance activities during planned downtime to ensure efficient equipment operation.
  • Following latest regulations: Our department stay updated on health regulations to protect our clients and consumers.

Implementing these strategies enables Econo-Pak to produce food products safely, consistently, and sanitarily.

Contact us for a fixed-price quote and discover how our team of experts can help scale your food brand today.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

MERV 11 Air Filtration Improves Food Safety in Repacking

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Contaminants flying through the air in repacking facilities can jeopardize the security and freshness of food items and ultimately endanger the health of consumers when they’re left unaddressed. However, with the proper air filtration system in place, food manufacturers can significantly minimize these risks.

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Primary vs. Secondary Packaging

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Many products come with primary and secondary packaging. Both serve to protect the contents, inform consumers, and market products.

Primary and secondary packaging are both important considerations when it comes to contract food packaging. Keep reading to learn more about the purpose and benefits of each.

Defining primary packaging

Primary packaging is the first layer of packaging on a product. It directly touches the product, such as the bag inside a box of cereal or a carton of juice. In many cases, consumers will see and handle this layer of packaging first or most when using the product.

This initial layer of packaging is crucial because it protects against contaminants, damage, and environmental factors that compromise product integrity or quality. It may also be used to extend shelf life, provide additional instructions or information, and convey a sense of value.

Examples of primary packaging include:

Understanding secondary packaging

Secondary packaging is an outer layer beyond the primary packaging, although it can be implemented in several ways. It is often used as a secondary form of protection for a product, such as a paperboard box (i.e., secondary packaging) that prevents crackers from breaking while an inner plastic bag (i.e., primary packaging) keeps them fresh.

It can also be used to physically group multipacks together, such as a two-pack of bottled sauce or a trial-size item packaged for sale with a full-size one. And in some situations, multiple layers of secondary packaging are used. For example, a wholesaler may individually package frozen entrees in covered trays (i.e., primary), then place each in an outer paperboard container (i.e., secondary), then pack 12 entrees together in a cardboard box (i.e., secondary).

All types of secondary packaging can incorporate branding through graphics and product information.

Primary vs. secondary packaging

Because they serve somewhat different purposes, primary and secondary packaging often have different physical characteristics. For example, primary packaging may need to be airtight, rigid, or greaseproof, while secondary packaging may need to be constructed from materials that are sturdy, block UV light, or incorporate easy-carry handles.

Impact of packaging on branding and marketing

Primary packaging is often a significant point of contact with potential customers. Package appearance, texture, shape, size, and overall design are powerful differentiators. Primary packaging can even convey a message about the experience of “unboxing” or using the product inside. In these ways, it has considerable influence over the decision to buy.

Secondary packaging shares some of the influence that primary packaging has, especially for products with inner freshness wrappings, bags, or pouches. Don’t overlook the ability of secondary boxes, cartons, or wraps to attract attention.

Product use may also factor into the brand details you choose to include on the packaging. Branding may have less impact when it appears on wrappers that are discarded immediately, or products that are decanted into other containers, such as frozen juice.

Primary and secondary packaging sustainability

 

Sustainable packaging is a growing consumer demand and a trend among manufacturers. Many eco-friendly designs are intended to reduce waste and the amount of natural resources needed for production. Common approaches include:

  • Increased percentages of recycled and post-consumer use materials
  • Compostable or recyclable packaging
  • Reduced plastic content or plastic alternatives
  • Packages that use less material overall
  • Plant- or paper pulp-based packages

Today’s consumers notice packaging materials, oversized boxes with wasted space, and the use of non-recyclables, which can impact their buying decisions.

Learn more about primary and secondary packaging

At Econo-Pak, we provide comprehensive, turnkey contract packaging services for dry-food applications. We offer a range of packaging options including vertical bagging, pouch filling, and flow wrapping, as well as custom packaging solutions. Contract manufacturing and a vetted network of packaging suppliers are also available.

By partnering with us, you’ll have more time to devote to developing your products and your brand. Our team will work with you to determine the best primary and secondary packaging options for your needs and business goals. Request a quote today to get started.

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

What is Repacking? A Guide to Efficient Food Packaging

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Packing and delivery of dry food products in pristine condition is crucial to growing your base of loyal customers. Enter repacking. But what exactly is repacking, and why should food businesses care about it?

Understanding repacking

Repacking involves transferring products from one type of packaging to another, usually to:

  • Enhance efficiency
  • Boost brand visibility
  • Meet specific retail requirements

In the dry food industry, this often means taking bulk goods like rice, grains, or pasta and repackaging them into smaller, consumer-friendly sizes. The ultimate goal is to make products more accessible, attractive, and suitable for various distribution channels.

Financial benefits of outsourcing repacking

Outsourcing your repacking needs can lead to significant financial benefits:

  1. Avoiding upfront investment
    Skip the costs of specialized packaging machinery, training staff, and equipment maintenance.
  2. Leveraging expertise and resources
    Access professional repackaging services with streamlined operations, reducing waste, labor, and overhead costs.
  3. Maintaining consistent quality
    Maximize profit margins without compromising on product quality.

Packaging sizes for different market sectors

Reconfiguring packaging sizes is crucial for meeting the diverse needs of different market sectors. For instance, airlines require single-serving portions for in-flight snacks, whereas wholesale retailers like Costco need large family-sized packs to attract bulk-buying customers.

By offering tailored packaging sizes for each sector, businesses can ensure their products are both convenient and appealing to end consumers, no matter where they shop.

When and why to use a repackaging service

Utilizing a professional repackaging service can be a game-changer for your food business. Here’s why:

  1. Meeting retail standards
    Different retailers have varying packaging requirements. A reliable repackaging service ensures your products meet those standards.
  2. Boosting brand visibility
    Custom packaging with your branding can make products stand out on the shelves.
  3. Reducing waste
    By repacking products into appropriate sizes, businesses can minimize waste and optimize inventory.
  4. Compliance and quality control
    Professional repackaging services adhere to stringent quality and safety regulations, giving you peace of mind.

Types of repacking products

Repacking covers a broad spectrum of dry food products. Some popular items include:

  • Grains and rice
    Bulk grains can be repacked into consumer-sized bags.
  • Pasta
    Spaghetti, penne, and other pasta shapes are often repacked from bulk to retail-friendly portions.
  • Nuts and seeds
    Repacking nuts into resealable bags ensures freshness and convenience.
  • Snacks
    Dry snacks like chips or pretzels can be portioned into individual packs.
 

The repacking process

How does the repacking process work? Let’s break it down into a few simple steps:

  1. Assessment and planning
    Your packaging needs are assessed, and a plan is created to deliver the desired packaging solution.
  2. Sanitization and quality control
    The repackaging facility undergoes thorough cleaning and quality checks to meet safety standards.
  3. Bulk to retail conversion
    Bulk products are carefully repacked into smaller packages with precise weight measurements.
  4. Labeling and branding
    Customized labels are applied to ensure accurate product information and attractive branding.
  5. Final quality checks
    Before dispatch, each package is inspected to ensure it meets all quality and safety standards.

Why choose Econo-Pak for your repacking needs?

At Econo-Pak, we specialize in providing high-quality repacking services for dry food products. With years of experience, we understand the challenges businesses face in packaging and distribution. Here’s why you should consider us for your next food repacking project:

  • Fixed-price quotes
    No hidden costs. We provide clear and fixed-price quotes tailored to your needs.
  • Modern automated facility
    Our Milford, PA repackaging facility is equipped with the latest technology to ensure efficient and safe handling of your products.
  • Quality assurance
    We follow strict quality control measures to ensure your products meet the highest standards.
  • Custom solutions
    From labeling to branding, we can offer procurement services for custom packaging solutions that align with your brand’s vision.

Ready to enhance your packaging game? Visit our website and fill out our Request a Quote form to receive a fixed-price quote for your food repacking project. Let’s make your products stand out on the shelves!

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

Retail Packaging vs. Non-Retail Packaging

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When it comes to contract food packaging, it’s essential to choose the right type of packaging for your business needs. Packaging not only plays a pivotal role in protecting your food products but it also serves as a powerful marketing tool.

Two main categories of food packaging include retail packaging and non-retail packaging. Here, we’ll explore the differences between these two types so that you can make an informed decision when selecting the right option for your food products.

Key Differences Between Retail Vs. Non-Retail Packaging

Some of the key differences between retail and non-retail packaging include:

1. Appearance and Design

Retail packaging is specifically designed to make your product look appealing on a store shelf. It’s intended to catch a consumer’s attention, communicate your brand identity, and increase the likelihood of sales. As such, this packaging option often includes bright colors, unique shapes, and eye-catching graphics.

On the other hand, non-retail packaging is purely functional. Its main purpose is to ensure safe storage and transport of food products. For this reason, it typically features a more straightforward, utilitarian design.

2. Functionality

In terms of functionality, retail packaging is meant to showcase your products, enhance visual appeal, and create an improved unboxing experience for customers. Non-retail packaging prioritizes protection over aesthetics – its main goal is to make sure your product arrives at its destination intact.

3. Materials Used

The materials used for retail packaging are chosen with aesthetics in mind. Common materials include plastic, cardboard, and glass. With non-retail packaging, materials are chosen based on durability and protection. Typical options include corrugated cardboard, bubble wrap, and foam.

Pros and Cons of Retail Packaging Vs. Non-Retail Packaging

When choosing between retail packaging and non-retail packaging, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each option.

Retail Packaging

Advantages of retail packaging include:

  • Improved brand visibility. Retail packaging can be used as a powerful branding tool. It helps your food products stand out from the competition and makes your brand more recognizable. Retail packaging can also include custom packaging design to give it extra personality.
  • Marketing and promotion opportunities. Retail packaging designs can include creative marketing elements such as promotional information, slogans or taglines, and product images.
  • Customized protection for sensitive products. Retail packaging can include customized protective features designed to prevent product damage during storage and handling.

Disadvantages of retail packaging include:

  • Higher costs. Because retail packaging often includes more specialized elements, it can come with higher printing, material, and design costs.
  • Environmental concerns. The heightened focus on branding and aesthetics sometimes comes at the cost of eco-friendliness. This can lead to concerns surrounding sustainability and waste.
  • Limited reusability. Retail packaging often comes in single-use designs, further raising environmental concerns.
 

Non-Retail Packaging

Key benefits of non-retail packaging include:

  • Cost-effectiveness. Non-retail packaging is typically more affordable than retail packaging, making it an attractive option for businesses with budget constraints.
  • Eco-friendly options. Many non-retail packaging materials are recyclable and eco-friendly, aligning with increasing demands for more sustainable products.
  • Space efficiency. Non-retail packaging provides improved space efficiency during storage and transport, resulting in lower shipping costs.

Some drawbacks of non-retail packaging include:

  • Limited branding and marketing potential. Compared to retail packaging, non-retail packaging doesn’t offer the same branding opportunities. It is more focused on functionality rather than marketing and aesthetics.
  • Limited protection for fragile items. Non-retail packaging often isn’t tailored to the specific product, resulting in less protection for more sensitive items.
  • Less appealing presentation. Non-retail packaging doesn’t include the same design elements as retail packaging, meaning it may not attract customers in the same way.

Retail Packaging Vs. Non-Retail Packaging Selection

Choosing between retail packaging and non-retail packaging requires paring down your product and industry. Certain industries or retail outlets have a higher expectation for attractive packaging. Your target market and customer preferences have a similar influence on the type of packaging you choose. Other factors to consider when making your choice include:

  • Budget
  • Sustainability goals
  • Desired branding opportunities

Sustainability for Retail Packaging Vs. Non-Retail Packaging

The importance of sustainable food packaging cannot be overlooked. As consumer demands for environmentally friendly packaging options continue to grow, it’s more important than ever to prioritize eco-conscious choices when packaging your food products. Both retail and non-retail sustainable packaging design can be incorporated by using recyclable materials, looking for ways to reduce waste, and using responsible manufacturing practices.

Learn More About Retail Packaging Vs. Non-Retail Packaging

Choosing between retail and non-retail packaging requires a thorough analysis of your shipping, storage, and retail needs. The key difference is generally one of function vs. form, where retail packaging depends on appearance and improving the customer experience, while non-retail packaging should be efficient and durable.

At Econo-Pak, we’re your source for superior contract food packaging services. Whether you choose retail or non-retail packaging, our expert team can work with you to create a sustainable, durable, and high-quality packaging solution for your food products. For more information about our retail and non-retail packaging capabilities, request a quote today.

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Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.