Blog - How to Package Cookies and Biscuits for Safe Transit and Satisfied Customers
Your packaging solutions must also aim to protect more than the baked goods inside. They should be made from sustainable or eco-friendly materials where possible, aligning with consumers’ changing values and helping to protect the planet too. In this guide, we'll explore how to package cookies and biscuits for safe transit while championing sustainability every step of the way.
- Select the Right Packaging Material: Begin by choosing packaging materials that provide adequate protection while also being eco-friendly. Opt for sturdy yet sustainable options such as recycled cardboard boxes or compostable packaging materials.
- Layering for Protection: Place a sheet of food-grade parchment paper or wax paper at the bottom of your packaging to create a protective barrier between the cookies or biscuits and the packaging material. Alternatively, place the cookies in film-fronted paper bags or polypropylene bags sealed with an impulse sealer, as shown in the image below.
- Arrange Cookies or Biscuits Carefully: Arrange your cookies or biscuits in a single layer inside the packaging, ensuring they are spaced evenly to prevent them from sticking together during transit.
- Add Cushioning: Place additional layers of parchment paper or bubble wrap between each layer of cookies or biscuits to provide cushioning and prevent breakage. Ensure there is enough padding to absorb any impact during transit.
- Seal the Package: Once the cookies or biscuits are securely placed in the packaging, seal the package tightly to preserve freshness and prevent moisture ingress. Use eco-friendly sealing options such as biodegradable tape or compostable stickers.
- Labelling for Information: Don't forget to include clear labelling on the packaging, indicating the contents, handling instructions, and any allergen information. Use eco-friendly ink and materials for labelling to align with sustainability goals.
Cookies and biscuits, especially those with delicate textures or decorative toppings, are prone to breakage during handling and transit. Packaging must provide sufficient cushioning and support to prevent crumbling or damage.
Moisture Sensitivity
Many types of cookies and biscuits are sensitive to moisture, which can compromise their texture and flavour. Packaging materials should be moisture-resistant to preserve freshness and prevent soggy or stale products upon arrival.
Freshness
Maintaining the freshness of cookies and biscuits is essential for delivering a superior culinary experience to customers. Packaging must effectively seal in freshness while allowing for proper airflow to prevent moisture build-up.
Packaging Size and Shape
The packaging size and shape should be carefully chosen to accommodate the dimensions of the cookies or biscuits without excessive space. A snug fit minimises movement during transit, reducing the risk of breakage.
Material Compatibility
Selecting packaging materials that are compatible with the characteristics of cookies and biscuits is crucial. For example, porous materials like paper bags may absorb oils from certain types of cookies, affecting their texture and taste.
Cardboard boxes made from recycled materials are an excellent choice for packaging cookies and biscuits. Not only are they sturdy and reliable for transit, but they also contribute to reducing the demand for new materials, conserving natural resources, and minimising waste.
Biodegradable Film Wraps
Biodegradable film wraps offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic packaging. Made from plant-based materials such as PLA (polylactic acid) or cellulose, these wraps are compostable and break down into non-toxic components, reducing environmental impact.
Compostable Packaging Inserts
Packaging inserts such as cushioning materials or dividers can be made from compostable materials like moulded pulp or cornstarch-based bioplastics. These inserts protect cookies and biscuits during transit while offering the added benefit of being compostable, supporting circular economy principles.
Paper-Based Packaging
Paper-based packaging options, such as paper bags or envelopes, can also be eco-friendly choices for packaging cookies and biscuits. Look for options made from sustainably sourced paper or recycled content to minimise environmental impact.
Proper cushioning is essential to protect cookies and biscuits from impact during transit. Consider using cushioning materials such as recycled corrugated paper, biodegradable loose fill, or air pillows made from compostable materials. These materials help absorb shocks and prevent breakage, ensuring that the treats arrive at their destination intact.
Inner Packaging Inserts
Inner packaging inserts play a vital role in maintaining the shape and integrity of cookies and biscuits during transit. Utilise inserts such as cardboard dividers or moulded pulp trays to separate individual cookies or biscuit varieties within the packaging. This prevents them from shifting or colliding with each other, reducing the risk of breakage.
Outer Box Reinforcement
Reinforcing the outer packaging box enhances its structural integrity and provides an additional layer of protection for the cookies and biscuits. Consider using double-walled cardboard boxes or adding extra layers of cardboard reinforcement at the corners and edges to withstand the rigours of transit.
Browse through our postal packaging options or protective packaging. Alternatively, contact us to have your questions answered by our team.
