Plastic packaging, which we come into contact with in grocery stores or in our E-Commerce orders and almost every day of our lives, is among our indispensables. While materials such as glass and metal were frequently preferred before the 1950s, the demand for plastic packaging increased after 1950. As the supply and production of plastic packaging became easier, it was preferred more. There are underlying reasons why it is preferred so often. We can understand the reason for preference by looking at the benefits of plastic packaging.
Benefits of Plastic Packaging
· It is preferred because it offers a hygienic storage opportunity.
· It facilitates the packaging of products in different designs and shapes.
· It is very resistant to impacts.
· Plastic packaging is cost-effective for manufacturers and product sellers.
· It prevents deterioration of the product it preserves.
· It offers more shelf life.
· It can be easily recycled.
History of Plastic Packaging
Towards the end of the 19th century, plastic packaging began to emerge. In 1862, the first semi-synthetic plastic was discovered by Alexander Parkes. By 1907, the first fully synthetic plastic was invented by Leo Baekeland. During the Second World War, the need for plastic packaging increased greatly. Along with this, plastic packaging production capacity also increased. In the 1960s, new types of plastic packaging were discovered. This was the heyday of plastic packaging. In the 1980s, sectors such as food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals began to prefer plastic packaging. From the 2000s to today, it has been included in every aspect of our lives.
Plastic Packaging Industry
For sustainability, the plastic packaging industry has also kept pace with innovations and continues to do so. As consumption increases, changes are taking place in the plastic packaging industry. Biodegradable plastics or plastic packaging made from renewable bioplastics do not pollute the environment. Therefore, we can say that plastic packaging is becoming environmentally friendly. Plastic packaging improves our quality of life and makes our lives easier. The plastic packaging industry and production directly affect the marketing process of products.
What are the Types of Plastic Packaging?
Plastic packaging types vary according to their intended use. Let’s list the types of plastic packaging.
– Polystyrene (PS)
– Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
– Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
– Polypropylene (PP)
– Polyethylene (PE)
We use the above types of plastic packaging frequently during the day.
Benefits of Smart Packaging
Plastic packaging has become an indispensable part of modern life and has found a wide range of uses. The biggest advantages of plastic packaging include durability, lightness, cost effectiveness and high protection capability. It is especially preferred in the food sector because it can preserve the freshness and quality of the products for a long time. Smart packaging is being developed to minimize the negative aspects of plastic packaging and to advance packaging technologies. Unlike traditional packaging, smart packaging has innovative features that can interact and provide information about the condition of products. Smart packaging technologies can monitor parameters such as freshness, temperature and humidity of products using sensors, labels and data transmission systems. For example, smart packaging that can monitor the spoilage process of a food product can provide consumers with color changes or warnings indicating whether the product is safe or not.
Smart packaging also offers significant advantages in logistics and supply chain management. By providing instant information on the location and status of products, they can reduce the risk of loss and theft, optimize inventory management and improve overall efficiency. When combined with bioplastics and biodegradable materials, smart packaging also offers significant contributions to environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, smart packaging, an innovative evolution of plastic packaging, plays an important role in the packaging technologies of the future, offering significant advantages in both environmental and economic terms. These innovative solutions contribute to making the packaging industry more sustainable, safe and efficient.
Equipped with sensors, labels and data transmission systems, these packages can monitor the condition of products and provide information to consumers. For example, smart packaging that monitors the freshness of food can reduce the risk of spoilage and prevent food waste.
Uses of Plastic Packaging
Plastic packaging, which has various areas of use, is preferred by many industries and manufacturers. It is used to preserve the freshness of food and preserve medicines. It is used for transporting and storing hazardous chemicals. Plastic packaging is also needed in the cosmetics industry. Plastic packaging is also indispensable in sectors such as agricultural products and automotive parts. As a result, we say that we are glad to have plastic packaging, which is involved in every aspect of our lives and provides us with convenience.
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