Your trusted partner for quality, reliable food packaging and ingredients with over 40 years of technical knowledge and expertise.
Save 15% on your first in-app purchase! Register for an account.
Oct 31, 2025
Sustainability is a topic that has come up a few times in our recent articles, and with very good reason. As consumer expectations shift and environmental consciousness grows, the future of food packaging – and how it can be more sustainable – is becoming the most important area of innovation in the food industry.
We pride ourselves on remaining ahead of the curve at Weald Packaging, so who better to explore this further? We’re taking a look at current trends in food packaging and the move towards eco-friendly practices.
By far the biggest trend for commercial food packaging we’ve seen in recent years is the demand for packaging that’s kinder to the planet.
It’s no longer suitable for food manufacturers or processors to use non-recyclable, single-use plastics without facing scrutiny from their consumers. Today’s shoppers want reassurance that the brands they support are actively reducing their environmental impact – and packaging is often the first thing they notice.
As a result, here at Weald we’re increasingly investing more in eco materials and circular economy thinking – such as with our recyclable and eco pouches. One thing is certain: the future of food packaging is about creating solutions that protect both the product and the environment and align with the values of conscious consumers.
Reusability is one of the strongest drivers we’re currently noticing in commercial packaging. From refillable containers to packaging that can be washed and returned, reusable options are rising in popularity – particularly for takeaway services and food delivery.
Meanwhile, recyclable packaging – which has been around for years – is continuing to evolve. Materials like mono-layer plastics and certain papers can now be widely recycled, offering a practical and scalable solution for many food businesses. Recyclable trays, pouches, and wrappers help reduce landfill and are increasingly accepted in kerbside collections across the UK.
Another current trend in food packaging is the use of packaging made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. By reusing materials that have already been in circulation, commercial food suppliers can dramatically cut down on their carbon footprint.
Packaging made from recycled paperboard, rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate), and recycled cardboard offers the same performance as other materials, while supporting a circular economy. It’s a great choice for food manufacturers who want to meet their sustainability goals and reduce reliance on virgin plastic.
Compostable or biodegradable packaging – such as our salad boxes and sandwich platters – remains a hot topic when discussing the future of food packaging. These materials are designed to break down naturally through microbial activity, reducing their long-term environmental impact.
They’re particularly useful for takeaway services – suited for single-use items like cutlery, wraps, and food trays – especially when used with composting schemes or food festivals with designated waste streams.
Innovation is also driving the development of entirely new materials for sustainable food packaging. These include:
The future of food packaging might be innovative and fast-moving, but there are already proven, accessible options on the market today. Many of our clients are successfully adopting:
If you’re looking to make a sustainable switch, our team at Weald Packaging is here to help you choose the right option for your product or service. We specialise in eco-friendly food packaging that’s functional, attractive, and – perhaps most important – ready for the future.
Explore our range of commercial packaging today or get in touch for expert advice tailored to your business.
Weald Packaging Supplies is a limited company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 01713146. Registered office: Station Approach, Buxted, TN22 4LA.
