The global meat packaging market was valued at $12 USD billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $14 USD billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 4.5%. The cheese packaging market is projected to exceed $5 USD billion in market value towards the end of 2029. Optimal packaging of chilled meat and cheese products requires an excellent barrier to keep oxygen out and moisture in, along with a barrier to oils and grease. The other desirable attributes include good sealing through product contamination and UV barrier.
Refrigerated meat and cheese can be packaged in a variety of formats, including ready-made trays closed with lidding film, thermoformed FFS packaging with flexible trays formed during the packaging process (also closed with lidding films), and flow wrap packaging. Pack ‘N’ Cycle EL films offer a recyclable option for lidding applications. For recyclable flow wrap packaging, laminates based on Pack ‘N’ Cycle LC films are recommended for smaller, lighter packs and Pack ‘N’ Cycle EL films for larger, heavier packs.
Lidding Films are used on thermoformed or pre-formed trays and containers that contains chilled, frozen, or modified atmosphere products.
The Flow Pack / Flow Wrap is used for food products such as snack bars and dry pastries and in the wet wipes market.
The Pillow Bag format is the industry standard for lower to medium weight packaging and will be mostly formed on VFFS lines.
