Choosing suitable packaging for meat products is about more than simply finding a container that fits. Meat can be affected by moisture, handling, storage conditions and transportation, so packaging needs to provide enough protection throughout the supply chain.
For businesses handling fresh meat, game, poultry or other meat products, the right packaging can help protect products during storage and transport while making handling more straightforward. The choice of material, construction and format will depend on the product and how it needs to be stored and distributed.
CRT Packaging supplies packaging solutions for the food industry, including solid fibreboard packaging for meat and game products.
What this blog covers
In this guide, we look at:
- What to consider when choosing meat packaging
- Strength and durability requirements
- The importance of moisture resistance
- Packaging for storage and transportation
- Different packaging requirements for meat, game and poultry
- The role of liners in meat packaging
Why is packaging important for meat products?
Meat products can be exposed to a range of conditions between production and their final destination. Packaging needs to withstand handling, stacking, storage and transportation without compromising the product inside.
For businesses supplying meat, game or poultry, packaging may need to protect against external damage while also being practical for packing, storage and distribution.
The right packaging can help to:
- Protect products during transportation
- Easier to stack and store
- Reduce the risk of damage
- Keep products contained during distribution
What should you consider when choosing packaging for meat products?
1. Strength and durability
Bulk meat packaging must be strong enough to support the weight of the contents and withstand the rigours of handling. Consider how the packaging will be stacked, moved and transported. If several packed products are placed on top of each other, the packaging must maintain its structural integrity throughout the process.
Solid fibreboard can provide a strong and rigid packaging solution for applications where durability is important.
2. Moisture and grease resistance
Fresh meat releases moisture during storage and transport, and some products may also contain fat or other liquids. Packaging needs to be suitable for the conditions it will encounter.
Depending on the application, a liner may be used alongside the outer packaging to provide additional protection. The appropriate combination of board and liner will depend on the product, storage conditions and intended use.
3. Storage conditions
Chilled and frozen products may face different conditions from those stored or transported at ambient temperatures. Businesses should consider how the packaging will perform throughout the expected storage period.
It is also worth considering how much space the packaging takes up when stacked or stored. Efficient packaging can make better use of available storage and transportation space.
4. Transportation requirements
Products may be handled several times before reaching their destination, so packaging should be capable of protecting its contents during loading, unloading and transportation.
Businesses should consider the distance involved, how products are transported and whether packages will be stacked during transit. Packaging designed for the distribution process can help reduce the risk of damage and make handling more efficient.
Packaging for meat, game and poultry
A product’s size, weight, and shape can affect the dimensions and construction of its packaging. Game products may also vary considerably in size, while poultry products can require packaging suited to their particular format and handling requirements.
This means there is no single packaging solution that will work for every business. Choose a packaging supplier who understands the application before recommending a particular board, size, construction or liner.
Why are liners used with meat packaging?
A liner can provide an additional layer between the product and the outer packaging. This can be particularly useful where moisture, liquids or grease need to be managed. The liner can help protect the outer packaging and make the overall packaging solution better suited to the product.
The right liner will depend on the product and how it is stored, handled and transported. A packaging supplier can help you choose a suitable board-and-liner combination based on the required moisture level and protection.
Should meat packaging be bespoke?
Standard packaging formats may suit some businesses, but bespoke packaging can offer advantages when products have specific dimensions or handling requirements.
A bespoke solution can be developed around factors such as:
- Product dimensions
- Product weight
- Packaging quantities
- Storage requirements
- Transportation
- Stacking
- Liner requirements
- Available storage space
Why choose solid fibreboard for meat packaging?
Solid fibreboard is used in a range of food packaging applications where strength and rigidity are important. Compared with thinner packaging materials, solid fibreboard can provide a robust structure suitable for products that need additional support during handling and transportation.
What about sustainability?
Packaging businesses are increasingly looking at ways to reduce unnecessary material use and improve the environmental performance of their packaging. For meat producers and suppliers, this can mean considering whether packaging is appropriately sized for the product, whether excessive material can be avoided and whether the chosen packaging fits with their wider sustainability requirements.
Choosing the right packaging supplier for meat products
By working with an experienced packaging manufacturer, businesses can explore different materials, formats and liner options to find a solution suited to their products.
It can be useful to consider:
- Understanding of meat and poultry applications
- Bespoke options for packaging materials
- Liner choices
- Manufacturing capabilities
- Ability to meet required quantities
- Support with packaging specifications
How CRT Packaging can help
CRT Packaging provides packaging solutions for meat, game and other food applications, with options available for businesses requiring both standard and bespoke packaging.
The company manufactures solid fibreboard packaging and offers different packaging formats to suit individual applications. Its product range also includes liners and other packaging solutions designed for industries where protection and durability are important.
For businesses with specific requirements, CRT Packaging can work with customers to develop packaging tailored to the product, dimensions, and intended use.
Frequently asked questions about packaging for meat products
What is the best packaging for meat products?
The best packaging depends on the type of meat, product weight, moisture levels, storage conditions and transportation requirements. Solid fibreboard can provide a strong option for applications where durability and protection are important.
What should meat packaging protect against?
Meat packaging may need to protect products from damage during handling, stacking and transportation. Depending on the product, protection from moisture, liquids or grease may also need to be considered.
Is solid fibreboard suitable for meat packaging?
Solid fibreboard is used in a variety of food packaging applications and provides strength and rigidity. The appropriate board specification will depend on the product and its storage and transportation requirements.
Do meat products need liners?
Not every meat product will require a liner. However, liners can provide an additional layer of protection where moisture, liquids or grease are a consideration. The requirement depends on the specific application.
Can meat packaging be made to a bespoke size?
Yes. Bespoke packaging can be designed around the dimensions, weight and requirements of a particular product. This can be useful for businesses handling products that do not fit standard packaging formats.
What packaging is suitable for meat and game products?
The appropriate packaging depends on the size, weight and type of product, as well as how it will be stored and transported. Meat and game businesses can consider factors such as board strength, moisture protection, liners and bespoke dimensions when selecting packaging.