Powder Packaging 101: Understanding the Basics

Powder packaging can be seen in a multitude of applications. From the food and beverage industry to pharmaceuticals, powder products are everywhere. However, powders can be difficult to use, which is why powder packaging must be carefully and thoughtfully designed for the user experience.

Powder packaging solutions can come in different types like:

• Stick packs
• Stand up pouches
• Gusseted pouches
• Flat pouches
• Sachets

A variety of materials can be used to satisfy your needs. These include but are not limited to:

• Laminate
• Monolayer PLA
• Transparent cellulose
• Nylon
• Foil

Issues to Consider for Your Powder Packaging

Packaging for powder products need to take into consideration the characteristics of the powder products to be effective. Consideration to how the end-user is supposed to consume your product should be at the forefront of your decision-making.

Free-flowing powder products flow easily under gravity, which means they have low cohesiveness. This makes stick packs and sachets an ideal application.

Conversely, non-free-flowing powder products have a high cohesiveness. This would mean that they can sometimes stick to a shape under compression. Products like powdered milk fall into this category as well.

Your powder packaging solutions should have the requisite filling equipment and powder packaging machine to accommodate this. Free-flowing powder packaging needs volumetric auger product fillers. Non-free-flowing powder products would require an auger filler that can dispense cohesive products.

These two characteristics also contribute to the bulk density of your product. Free-flowing powders have more empty space since they are less likely to be compressed. This means they would need more space in your powder packaging. Non-free-flowing powders have less pace since they tend to stick together.

De-aeration is another process to consider. This is where the air is removed during the powder packaging process to eliminate the possibility of oxidation, discoloration, and clumping. This maintains the integrity of your powder products.

Choosing the Right Packaging for Powder Products

The right powder packaging solution for these types of products should have these qualities:

• They should offer protection against contamination and external factors like moisture, air, and light. This will help your powder products to retain a high shelf life and maintain their quality.
• Powder products are typically hard to use for customers so your dry powder packaging options should make it easy for consumers to easily use your products. Packaging options like sachets and stick pack packaging are perfect for single-serve products because they are convenient.
• Provide portability for your products. Powder products are lightweight and their packaging should reflect that. Most food powder packaging is for single-serve situations like coffee, nutritional supplements, milk, and similar products. An ultra-slim design makes powder packaging easily transportable.
• Durability is another important factor for your powder pouch packaging. As your products need to withstand the rigors of shipping, handling, and logistics, you need to ensure your powder packaging solutions have the strength to avoid rips, tears, and punctures.
• Customization is another crucial factor to consider. Your products need to be able to fit your needs and your consumers’ needs. Your packaging for powder products should be tailored to fit your brand and specifications. This will not only help you stand out with brand differentiation but make it easier for customers to have a better experience.
• Full compliance with industry standards and regulations isn’t something to take lightly, especially with consumable powders. FDA approval for your powder packaging solution provider will make sure your products maintain their integrity and comply with the necessary industry standards.

Do you need powder packaging solutions? You need a provider with the experience and expertise to help you make the right decisions for your powder products.

Let us handle your powder packaging needs!