Contract Food Packaging FAQs

Contract food packaging involves outsourcing the packaging of your food products to a third-party packaging provider. The contract food packaging company takes care of tasks that include packaging design, production, material sourcing, quality control, labeling, and more.

Contract food packaging services are ideal for various types of businesses, including retailers, food manufacturers, distributors, processors, and more. These services give businesses the flexibility to focus on their core competencies while benefiting from specialized packaging expertise.

Outsourcing your food packaging operations offers numerous advantages, including the following:

• Access to specialized equipment and expertise
• Cost-effectiveness
• Compliance with industry standards and regulations
• Scalability to handle shifts in demand
• Ability to customize packaging to align with your brand

In-house packaging operations involve a company handling its own packaging processes internally. Contract food packaging, on the other hand, involves partnering with a third-party provider for your food packaging needs. This allows businesses to benefit from enhanced efficiency, experience, and specialized resources without having to invest in costly equipment and labor.

Contract food packaging is a versatile solution that can be used to package numerous types of food products, including:

• Dry/bulk goods
• Powders
• Snacks
• Grains
• Baked goods
• Confectionery items
• Cereals
• And much more

When determining the right contract food packaging provider for your needs, there are many factors you should consider. These factors include their experience level, quality control processes, certifications, track record, capabilities, responsiveness to communication, and ability to meet your packaging requirements.

Check to make sure the contract food packaging provider has the expertise and experience to handle the specific types of food products you offer. They should be able to showcase their ability to meet your unique requirements for packaging design, labeling, materials, and any special considerations related to your products (allergen control, certified organic, etc.).

To ensure you choose a partner that prioritizes quality management and food safety, look for the following certifications/quality standards:

• Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000
• ISO 9001:2015

Common materials used in contract food packaging include trays, cartons, cans, bottles, flexible pouches, and labels. Choosing the appropriate materials for you largely depends on product type, branding considerations, and shelf life requirements.

Yes! Contract food packaging providers understand the growing demand for sustainable packaging materials and offer a range of eco-friendly options, including those that are compostable, biodegradable, and recyclable. Be sure to discuss your sustainability goals with your provider to find the right solution.

Experienced contract food packaging providers maintain robust quality control systems and adhere to stringent food safety regulations. Following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and holding FSSC 22000 or HACCP certifications illustrates that their packaging processes meet the required safety, hygiene, and traceability standards.