News - The Trend of Pet Food Packaging from 2022

Packaging plays a key role in the strong growth of the pet food industry, especially for premium branded products. Sustainable and personalized packaging designs can catch the attention of pet parents at the first time, which is an important factor to promote the order.

Pet food packaging is a packaging method in which pet food is stored and packaged in various types of containers accordingly to protect the food from various contamination factors and maintain the nutritional value of the food.

Based on material, plastics is one of the most widely used materials for packaging in various end-use industries. PVC, HDPE, PET, and other forms of plastic are widely used in the pet food packaging market. Plastics is a good barrier which is a cost-effective, heat-resistant and durable packaging option. Imaginative packaging expressions such as disposable packaging flip tops and zipper lids have been winning over customers in the pet food packaging market.

According to data from Research & Markets, the scale of global pet-food packaging market is expected to grow from $10.2 billion in 2020 to $12.5 billion in 2025, at an annual growth rate of 4.2%.

Furthermore, plastic products are expected to dominate the pet food packaging market from 2020 to 2025. According to Research & Markets,Plastic packaging is durable, lightweight, cost-effective and versatile, making it the largest segment in the pet food packaging market.

At the same time, some foreign media pointed out that the development trend of pet food packaging in recent years mainly revolves around several aspects.

1.Sustainability

Sustainability remains a factor affecting consumer behavior when it comes to pets.With 75% of consumers saying they would feel more favored by brands with more sustainable packaging. Consumers increasingly value and even ensure that the products they buy are ethically and sustainably produced. For pet food packaging, this means an increased use of biodegradable and recyclable materials.

The challenge for manufacturers is that sustainability often conflicts with other packaging trends. Not all eco-friendly packaging materials offer characteristics such as the best quality, durability and food safety which are required by pet food manufacturers. A sustainable option which is proven the most effective is recycled plastic. When compared to traditional paper bags and assorted plastic pet food bags, if not a better solution,even providing the same barrier performance meets manufacturers' preservation requirements and customers' environmental requirements . In addition to making their packaging more recyclable, successful brands are providing clear recycling instructions and encouraging end users to participate in recycling programs.

2.Functionality and convenience

Resealability, product freshness and ease of use are all factors to be considered when choosing pet food packages. Nowadays more than ever, pet owners are driving the pet food industry's need for convenience. In response to this, many successful pet food brands are adopting forms and features commonly used in the treat industry, such as stand-up pouches, resealable zipper and tear cutouts.

Not only does reseal technology keep pet food fresh, but it resonates well with consumers looking for a convenient feature to shorten feeding time. Fifty percent of pet parents who bought premium pet food says they will be upset if the package can not be resealed after opening. If the bag is damaged when opened, or if the pet parent has difficulty resealing it between feedings, they risk compromising the freshness of the product. When developing packaging for pet food, brands must choose features that are reliable and convenient, such as easy-opening and resealable.

The function and convenience of packaging are also the keys to reflect the practicality of the product. For example, to make packaging more convenient for consumers, pet food processors have added options such as sachets or multi-sachets.

3.Sophistication

As the humanization of pets continues to spread, pet parents want their kids to eat as healthy as they do. According to statistics, more than 40% of pet owners buy high-end pet food for cats and dogs. As more brands launch premium pet food lines, these products require high-quality packages to protect and preserve the ingredients.

Flexible packaging is one of the most widely used packaging forms in the pet food packaging industry. It offers high barrier properties, temperature resistance and decent durability, all while being cost effective. High-quality pet food ingredients require good barrier properties to maintain their nutritional and health benefits. Flexible packaging films extend the shelf life of pet food by preventing the loss of aroma, moisture and oxygen. Bags are equipped with reseal technology that also helps keeping premium pet food in its freshest condition.

Eye-catching graphics, high-quality printing techniques and unique material finish all signal to consumers that they are buying a premium product. Popular surfaces can elevate purchase options such as paper-like varnishes, soft finish matt, high-gloss or speckled registered varnishes, providing consumers with a visual and tactile experience and giving brand owners an additional opportunity to stand out in the retail environment .

With the improvement of the status of pets in the family, many pet foods are coveted by many businesses, and there will be more and more market space for pet foods. Many businesses have also begun to make a big fuss about packaging to meet the emotional needs of pet parents and create pet food packaging that is in line with modern consumption.