Glass Jars vs Plastic Jars: Which choice for the food industry?

The choice of food jars is a major issue for companies in the agri-food sector, which must evaluate several criteria to ensure the quality of the packaging they use. Packaging not only influences product preservation, but also brand image, food safety and environmental impact. In a competitive market where consumers are increasingly demanding and sensitive to environmental issues, manufacturers need to offer sustainable and eco-responsible solutions, while respecting the standards and regulations in force. In this context, this article examines the different aspects to consider when choosing quality food jars and jars, and will help you in choosing the best packaging for your products.

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Choosing materials for food jars and jars: What you need to know

• Plastic pots : advantages and disadvantages to consider

Plastic pots have several advantages for food professionals. Firstly, plastic is a very light material, which makes it easy to handle, store, produce and transport, reducing the cost and carbon footprint of these steps. In addition, plastic pots are generally cheaper to produce and purchase than glass pots. Their resistance to impacts and falls also reduces the risk of breakage and product loss. Plastic offers a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours, providing more opportunities for customisation and differentiation in the market. It is also easy to personalise plastic pots with labels, printing or branding techniques. Finally, many types of plastic are recyclable, and some plastic pots are made from recycled plastic, reinforcing their ecological dimension.

However, plastic pots also have some disadvantages. They are less suitable for products that need to be sterilised or stored at high temperatures, due to their lower heat resistance. Consumers tend to associate plastic packaging with pollution and plastic waste, which can damage the brand image of your product. In addition, plastics can release chemicals into food, especially when exposed to heat. It is therefore important to respect the legal limits on the migration of these substances, as recommended by the ANIA (Association Nationale des Industries Alimentaires).

 

Plastic pots : summary of advantages and disadvantages

 

Benefits

Disadvantages

• Lightweight

• Economical

• Shock resistant

• Various sizes and colours

• Easy to personalise

• Recyclable

• Less heat resistant

• Negative ecological perception

• Potential migration of chemicals

 

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• Are glass jars the best option? Advantages and disadvantages

Glass is a popular material for manufacturers, particularly for its perceived premium quality, which enhances the value of packaged products. Glass is also fully recyclable, reducing its impact on the environment. According to CITEO, the recycling rate for glass was 88% in .

The resistance of glass to temperature variations is another major advantage, making it suitable for sterilisation processes and high temperature preservation techniques. Thanks to its effective oxygen barrier properties, glass preserves the freshness and quality of packaged products. In addition, unlike plastic, glass does not present any risk of migration of chemicals into the food.

However, glass has some disadvantages. It weighs more than plastic, which leads to higher transport and logistics costs. Its fragility is also a weak point, increasing the risk of breakage during production and transport.

 

Summary of the advantages and disadvantages of glass jars

 

Benefits

Disadvantages

• Hight-end perception 

• Recyclable

• Heat resistant

• Effective oxygen barrier

• No migration of chemicals

• Heavier

• Fragile

• Cost of transport

• Production cost 

 

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• The environmental impact of materials: A growing concern

When selecting materials, manufacturers need to take into account various elements such as recyclability, carbon footprint and energy consumption during production. This will help them to make environmentally responsible decisions.

Glass is an infinitely recyclable material, which means that the raw material can be remelted and reused many times without loss of quality. The use of cullet (finely ground glass), i.e. recycled glass, reduces the carbon footprint by lowering the consumption of raw materials and CO2 emissions. This is because the melting temperature of cullet is lower than that of virgin material. However, it is important to note that the production of glass requires significant energy consumption, due to the high temperatures required for its fusion.

Plastic has the advantage that it can be recycled, depending on the type, and its production is less energy intensive than that of glass. However, plastic pollution can occur if waste is not properly managed, and plastic production involves the use of non-renewable resources such as oil.

If you would like to know more or have any questions about the materials used, please do not hesitate to contact our team of experts to help you choose the most suitable and sustainable materials for your food packaging.

 

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Tips for selecting the size and shape of food containers

• Essential criteria for determining the ideal size

It is important to choose the right type of containers for your products, so you need to choose packaging that is appropriate for their size, diameter, shape, weight, type of product being packaged...

Here are some key elements to consider when selecting the appropriate size for a package:

•  Quantity of product to be packaged :

  The size of the package should be adapted to the quantity of product to be packaged. Too little capacity may disappoint consumers, while too much capacity may lead to waste and increased production costs. Caution! Food that has been packaged hot may take up less space when cooled.

•  Consumer preferences :

  It is essential to study consumer expectations and needs to determine the most appropriate pack size. Market research can provide valuable information on customer preferences for capacity and convenience.

• Production constraints : The manufacturing and packaging processes may impose limitations on the size of the packaging. It is important to take these constraints into account when selecting a jar.

• Logistical and storage constraints :

  The size of packaging also influences the costs and complexity of logistics operations. Smaller, stackable packages optimise storage space and facilitate transport, which can lead to savings in logistics costs.

The size of food jars and jars must be carefully chosen taking into account these different criteria. It is an essential element in meeting consumer expectations and ensuring the commercial success of the product, while controlling production and logistics costs.

• Forms available on the market and their usefulness

The variety of shapes of food jars and jars on the market meets the different needs of professionals. Each of these shapes has specific characteristics and advantages.

• Cylindrical jars are versatile and can accommodate various types of products. Their rounded shape makes them easy to store and stack. This makes them suitable for a wide variety of uses, from jams and sauces to canned vegetables.

  are versatile and can accommodate various types of products. Their rounded shape makes them easy to store and stack. This makes them suitable for a wide variety of uses, from jams and sauces to canned vegetables.

• Square and rectangular containers optimise storage space. Their geometric shape allows them to be stored efficiently and stacked easily. These containers are particularly popular for dry goods such as cereals, pasta and biscuits.
• Hexagonal and octagonal jars offer an original presentation that highlights the product. Their unique design can be an asset to stand out from competitors. These containers are often used for high-end products such as artisanal jams, honeys or chutneys.

  offer an original presentation that highlights the product. Their unique design can be an asset to stand out from competitors. These containers are often used for high-end products such as artisanal jams, honeys or chutneys.

• The classic jam jar is specially designed to hold jams, preserves or honey. Its shape and size are adapted to hold small quantities and make it easy to grip when using.

  is specially designed to hold jams, preserves or honey. Its shape and size are adapted to hold small quantities and make it easy to grip when using.

• The small spice jar has an airtight lid that preserves the freshness and aroma of the spices, herbs or condiments it contains. It is ideal for storing and displaying spices in professional or domestic kitchens. It can also be used in combination with a grinder to store salt or pepper, for example.

• Le Parfait jar is a jar with a rubber seal and a mechanical closing system. It is suitable for the sterilisation and long-term storage of foodstuffs, such as vegetables, fruit or ready-made meals.

  Finally, theis a jar with a rubber seal and a mechanical closing system. It is suitable for the sterilisation and long-term storage of foodstuffs, such as vegetables, fruit or ready-made meals.

 

Understanding closure and sealing systems

• Types of closures for food jars and jars

The choice of a closure system for food jars and jars depends on the specific needs in terms of convenience, tightness and food preservation. Here is an overview of the different types of closures available on the market :

• Screw-on lids are very versatile and can be used with both glass and plastic containers. They offer a secure closure and are easily reusable, making them popular for a wide variety of applications.

• Crimp caps are mainly used for glass jars. They require a crimping tool to be attached to the container, which guarantees a hermetic seal. This type of closure is particularly suitable for products that need to be stored for a long time, such as preserves.

• Snap-on lids

  are specifically designed for plastic pots. They make it easy to open and close the container, while ensuring a good seal. This system is ideal for products that are regularly opened and resealed, such as biscuits or sweets.

• The lids, often made of aluminium, are thermally sealed to the container and guarantee an optimal seal. They are commonly used for yoghurts, compotes and sauces, as they offer maximum protection against external contamination.

• Hinged lids, usually used for glass jars, provide a tight seal and give the packaging a traditional look. They are particularly popular for jams, honeys and chutneys.

• Finally, clip closures, equipped with a rubber seal, ensure a perfect seal for food preservation. This type of closure is frequently used for "Le Parfait" jars and is suitable for sterilisation and long-term storage of food.

 

• Best practices to ensure tightness and food safety

Before closing a container, it is important to clean the edges and ensure that no product residues remain. Poor hygiene could compromise the seal and encourage the growth of bacteria or mould.

The use of proper sealing equipment for crimp caps and lids is essential to ensure a perfect seal and food protection.

It is recommended that the tightness of packaging be tested under real-life conditions, including transport, storage and handling by the consumer. These tests help to identify potential problems and to optimise the choice of packaging.

Finally, it is mandatory to comply with the relevant regulations for materials and closure systems. Food safety standards and certifications ensure that packaging meets legal requirements and protects consumers.

Customisation and branding

• Importance of branding and attractive packaging

  If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Custom Plastic Jars.

Brand image and attractive packaging play a crucial role in the perception of products and manufacturers. In a competitive market, differentiation is essential to facilitate the consumer's decision making process and to improve visibility and brand awareness. Well-designed packaging creates an emotional connection with customers, strengthening brand loyalty.

• Customisation options for food jars and jars

For personalising food jars and jars, several options are available. Custom labelling offers a wide range of choices in terms of colours, fonts, logos and images. Printing techniques vary according to requirements and include screen, offset, pad and digital printing. Finishes such as varnish, hot foil stamping and embossing provide an extra touch of elegance and distinction. Finally, customised lids and closures allow you to play with colours, materials and designs to make the packaging unique and recognisable.

At Fidel, we offer a range of specific services including custom printing:

 

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Food safety standards and regulations

• Applicable standards and certifications

Some manufacturers, in order to guarantee the quality of their products, voluntarily set up various (non-mandatory) standards:

 

• The ISO standard, which concerns quality management systems.

• The ISO (food safety management), FSSC , BRC and IFC standards cover the same food safety requirements. They aim to prevent the risk of contamination and to ensure the traceability of food products throughout the production chain.

 

• Compliance with national and European regulations

In addition to the non-mandatory standards mentioned above, it is essential to comply with national and European regulations on food packaging. Here are some points to consider:

• Check compliance with French regulations, in particular those issued by the Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF).

• Keep up to date with European regulations, including the requirements of the framework regulation / and material-specific regulations (e.g. EU Regulation 10/ on plastic materials and articles in contact with foodstuffs. This regulation sets out the requirements for materials in contact with food, such as jars and pots).

• Adapting packaging to the standards of exporting countries. Legislation varies from country to country, and it is crucial to ensure that packaging meets the specific requirements of each target market.

 

• Quality assurance and supplier control at Fidel Fillaud

Quality assurance and supplier supervision are essential elements in ensuring the safety and conformity of jars and jars for food use. Fidel Fillaud attaches great importance to these aspects and implements strict procedures to guarantee the quality and traceability of products.

The choice of suppliers is a fundamental step. Fidel Fillaud endeavours to work with partners who comply with the standards and certifications in force in the field of food packaging. This approach guarantees that the jars and jars come from reliable sources and comply with food safety regulations. Fidel Fillaud has chosen to work with suppliers who are mainly based in Europe and 51% of whom are French.

In order to maintain an optimum level of quality, Fidel Fillaud regularly inspects its suppliers' production sites. These inspections ensure that quality, hygiene and safety standards are respected, as well as assessing manufacturing processes and quality control methods.

Product traceability is also essential to ensure food safety and packaging conformity. Fidel Fillaud ensures that each stage of the supply chain, from manufacture to delivery, is carefully documented and monitored. This traceability makes it easier to go back to the source in the event of a problem and guarantees transparency for customers.

In addition, Fidel Fillaud provides an expert customer service to meet the demands and needs of professionals in the food sector. This service assists customers in selecting packaging, informs them of the standards and regulations in force, and advises them on best practice in terms of food safety.

Sustainability and environmental impact

• Consumer expectations for sustainable packaging

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environment and expect sustainable packaging for the food products they buy. Their expectations include :

• A preference for recyclable, reusable or compostable packaging, which reduces waste and conserves natural resources.

• Transparency on the origin of materials used and manufacturing practices to ensure that packaging is produced in an ethical and responsible manner.

• Discovering innovative alternatives to traditional food containers

To meet these expectations, it is important to choose environmentally friendly materials for food jars. Sustainable options include :

• Recycled or bio-based plastic, which reduces the environmental impact of plastic production.

• Compostable materials, which decompose into natural elements without harming the environment.

 

Sustainable practices implemented at Fidel Fillaud

At Fidel Fillaud, we implement a variety of sustainable practices to reduce our environmental impact and meet consumer expectations:

• The use of recycled and recyclable materials in the distribution of our packaging, in order to limit our carbon footprint and preserve natural resources. FIDEL FILLAUD has developed an ECOSphere range of containers that will enable you to have a more sustainable and responsible approach.

 

• Partnerships with suppliers committed to an eco-responsible approach, to guarantee the quality and durability of our products.

 

• The pack-score, inspired by the Nutri-Score but adapted to packaging, which makes it possible to evaluate and communicate the environmental impact of packaging, taking into account criteria such as the recyclability of the material, reusability, manufacturing, weight and carbon emissions.

 

Find our entire ECOSphere range!

Innovative alternatives to traditional food containers

• Focus on compostable and recycled packaging in the world of food jars

In an era where sustainability and ecology are at the forefront, the food container industry is constantly seeking to innovate. As a result, alternatives to traditional jars are emerging that minimise the environmental impact of packaging. Among these solutions are compostable jars and jars, as well as recycled containers.

Compostable containers are an interesting option for professionals concerned about their ecological footprint. Made from biodegradable materials, these containers decompose naturally in a composter, whether domestic or industrial. This feature makes it an environmentally friendly solution and promotes the circular economy. However, it is important to ensure that the material is compatible with the food and storage conditions before choosing this alternative.

Recycled pots and jars come in different categories: bio-sourced, recycled or eco-designed.

 

• Bio-based packaging

  is plastic made from plant products (e.g. sugar cane bagasse, corn, etc.). They help to preserve the planet's resources as they are produced from a renewable raw material.

• Recycled pots and jars

  are made from recycled materials, reducing plastic waste and conserving natural resources.

• is developed to limit its environmental impact throughout its life cycle, from production to end-of-life.

  Finally, eco-designed packaging is developed to limit its environmental impact throughout its life cycle, from production to end-of-life.

 

These innovative alternatives to traditional containers allow food professionals to adopt more sustainable practices and meet the growing expectations of consumers in terms of ecology. However, the specificities of each option should be carefully studied and their compatibility with the food, the packaging process and the storage conditions should be ensured before integrating them into the production chain.

 

Discover our entire range of eco-friendly packaging!

 

Evaluate the quality of the product

• Criteria for assessing the quality of food jars and jars

When assessing the quality of food jars and jars, it is essential to consider several criteria, including

• Materials used:

  It is important to check the quality, strength and environmental impact of the materials chosen for packaging. Quality materials guarantee better food preservation.

• Finish:

  Appearance is a crucial element, as it contributes to the brand image and appeal of the product. The quality of the print must be impeccable to reflect the seriousness of the company and to build customer loyalty.

• The accessory:

  A tight, easy-to-use and durable closure system is essential to ensure food safety and consumer satisfaction. The closures must also comply with current regulations.

• Compliance with standards and regulations:

  Food packaging must comply with applicable standards and regulations, such as certifications and food safety requirements.

 

• Importance of samples and field tests

The importance of sampling and testing under real conditions should not be underestimated when assessing the quality of food jars. It is recommended to :

 

• Request samples to check the quality of materials, finishes and closures. Samples allow us to detect possible defects before mass production and to avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Carry out tests under real conditions, simulating situations of transport, storage and handling by the consumer. These tests make it possible to verify the resistance of the packaging and its watertightness, as well as its behaviour in the face of variations in temperature, humidity and impact.

 

Request your sample now!

 

En conclusion, le choix des pots et bocaux alimentaires est crucial pour les entreprises agroalimentaires car il impacte la conservation, l'image de marque, la sécurité alimentaire et l'impact environnemental. Les critères importants incluent les matériaux, la finition, la fermeture, et la conformité aux normes. Les entreprises doivent être en mesure de proposer des emballages écoresponsables et durables, tout en respectant les normes de sécurité alimentaire et les réglementations. Les tests en conditions réelles sont nécessaires pour garantir la compatibilité de l&#;emballage sélectionné avec le produit conditionné.

 

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