Special Report on Packaging

Posted - October 4, 2009

In search of the most sustainable packaging

By Angela West

The growth in popularity of organic foods and natural products has resulted in a considerable level of new product development over a short period of time. As noticed during industry trade shows, the manner in which organic, nutritious and fair trade goods are packaged and presented to a growing consumer market demanding them, is frequently overlooked. Nutrition, environmental concerns, marketability and logistics are all factors that directly influence the choice of packaging substrate and design. Which are the most unique, convenient, eco-friendly and safe packaging solutions? Which are the best materials? Could it be PET or bio-plastics? Or is it glass or metal?

This is the second of a series (started with the O.W.N. Summer 2009 digital edition available at www.organicwellnessnews.com) on packaging alternatives that fit the values of the green movement. We asked industry players about their choices. Here are some of their replies.

In Canada Harmony Organic opts for traditional glass shaped bottle

Harmony Organic Dairy Products Inc. is a medium sized organic certified enterprise owned and operated in Ontario since 2001 by organic dairy farmers Lawrence Andres and Ross Wilhelm. Although market demand has forced the dairy to also offer its milk and cream products in recyclable cartons and 4 liter bags, the most discerning consumers still prefer to buy their milk in reusable attractive old fashioned shaped glass bottles. The reason? Taste!, says marketing director Robert Kuenzlen.