SERAC REVIEWS TRENDS IN HOT SAUCE PACKAGING DESIGN

Exhibitor at Djazagro, Serac has published an article on its website that provides a quick overview of current innovations in the sector of hot sauces. ‘These changes are redefining not only aesthetics, but also filling processes,’ says Serac.

Four trends in particular are highlighted.

Sustainable materials

‘One of the new trends is the use of sustainable, eco-friendly materials for bottles. With the growing awareness of environmental issues, manufacturers are switching to recycled or biodegradable materials. These materials, while beneficial to the environment, can present unique challenges in terms of strength and compatibility with existing filling equipment. For example, bioplastic bottles may require specific filling temperatures or adjustments to the pressure applied during capping to avoid distortion.’

Integration of pourers

‘Innovation in bottle design to improve the user experience is another key trend. Bottles with integrated dispensing mechanisms, such as pourers or precision applicators, are becoming increasingly popular. These features, while adding value to the product, require adjustments on production lines, as they can alter the weight, balance and overall shape of the bottle, affecting the filling and capping process’.

Customisation

‘The customisation and individualisation of bottles is also becoming an important part of product merchandising. Consumers are looking for products that stand out from the competition, leading to an increasing variety of bottle shapes and sizes. This diversity can create logistical challenges, requiring modular and adaptable filling lines able to handle a wide range of designs without compromising efficiency or accuracy’.

QR codes and NFC tags

‘The integration of technology into bottle design, such as the use of QR codes or NFC tags for better interaction with consumers, is starting to emerge. Although these elements do not directly affect the filling process, they must be taken into account in the overall design of the bottle to ensure that these technologies are accessible and functional after filling and capping’.

All these trends are creating many challenges for the industry. ‘Continuous innovation in bottle materials, designs and functionality will require manufacturers to be constantly adaptable and innovative in their filling processes,’ advises Serac.