Faculty of Science and Food Technology - Paper Packaging and the Food Technology Industry

Paper packaging and the food industry are two complementary and mutually supportive sectors. The increasing consumer trends lead to a growing demand for paper packaging.

"Demand for Paper Packaging

The online market has seen significant growth in recent years, coupled with fast delivery services, contributing to the robust development of the food industry. The demand for paper packaging, such as food boxes, paper bowls, paper cups, is rapidly increasing.

Moreover, the fast-paced lifestyle and work demands prioritize speed, compactness, and convenience. Consumers choose products and services that meet convenience requirements while ensuring health. Therefore, paper products as alternatives to single-use plastics are the current leading choice and a trend for the future.

Paper Packaging and the Food Industry

The food service market is one of the fastest-growing and most anticipated markets for consuming paper packaging. Although the paper consumption share in this industry is not high (<1%) compared to the overall market, its rapid growth makes it a potential market for the development and expansion of paper packaging.

The recognition of the market potential is accurate and entirely justified. Consumer awareness is increasing. They are conscious and prioritize choosing eco-friendly packaging to protect their health, their families, and improve the living environment. Pressures from governments and international markets to restrict nylon, plastic, solid waste, and tight control efforts to create a healthy living environment have partly driven the development of the paper packaging industry.

Companies operating in the paper packaging industry are also making efforts to create products that can completely replace plastic packaging. Single-use products such as paper bowls, paper bags, paper straws, paper boxes, paper handles, paper cups have been introduced and well-received in the market.

Leading Enterprises in Adopting Paper Packaging

Many key figures in the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry have taken the lead in adopting paper packaging. Well-known coffee, bubble tea, and ice cream brands such as Hokkaido Ice Cream, Phuc Long Tea, Starbucks, etc., have embraced eco-friendly paper packaging for their products. This pioneering step aligns with the green living trend, creating a positive impression for their customers. Moreover, it serves as an effective PR tool, demonstrating the vision and environmental responsibility of these major enterprises.

Potential and Challenges of the Paper Packaging Industry

The ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic continues to unfold and has yet to abate, significantly impacting the entire economy, including the paper packaging manufacturing industry.

The period of isolation led to a halt in production for 1-2 months. After the lockdown, there were changes in the workforce, affecting the progress of work. Raw materials were also affected, facing shortages as imports were delayed due to strict border controls amid the pandemic. The cost of materials increased due to the shortage.

Despite these challenges, the market potential during this period is immense. The trend of consumers avoiding going out has led to a surge in food delivery orders, resulting in a high demand for eco-friendly packaging. Therefore, the paper packaging industry has no concerns about market demand during this period.

With a potential market and a desire to improve the quality of life and the environment, both the paper packaging and the food industry are developing and bringing many values to life.

According to Thpaper.