In today’s fast-paced world, plastic food packaging is everywhere. From ready meals to snacks, sauces to fresh produce, food packaged in plastic and lines every supermarket shelf. But is it really the best option?
As a leading provider of food packaging supplies, Livingstone International understands the balance between food safety, convenience, and sustainability. You want packaging that protects your product, extends shelf life, and still meets growing demands for eco-conscious solutions.
So, let’s break it all down, no fluff, no jargon. Just what you need to know.
Why Plastic Food Packaging Is Still a Staple
We know plastic often gets a bad rep. But it’s not all doom and gloom.
Plastic has long been a game-changer in food packaging. It’s lightweight, strong, and keeps food fresh for longer. That means less waste in the long run—and that’s important for both your bottom line and the planet.
Here’s what plastic does well:
- Preserves freshness
- Protects from moisture, light and bacteria
- Extends shelf life
- Reduces food waste
- Improves product visibility
If you’re in food service, retail or manufacturing, you know how vital all of that is. You want your products to arrive safely, look good, and stay fresh. That’s precisely where plastic food packaging shines.
Common Types of Plastic in Food Packaging
Not all plastics are created equal. Each type serves a different purpose based on your packaging needs.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
| Type | Common Use | Features |
| PET (Polyethene Terephthalate) | Bottled drinks, takeaway containers | Transparent, recyclable, sound barrier |
| HDPE (High-Density Polyethene) | Milk bottles, food tubs | Sturdy, food-safe, recyclable |
| LDPE (Low-Density Polyethene) | Plastic wraps, bread bags | Flexible, moisture-resistant |
| PP (Polypropylene) | Ready meal trays, yoghurt cups | Microwave-safe, durable |
| PS (Polystyrene) | Foam trays, disposable cutlery | Lightweight but less recyclable |
Understanding what type of plastic suits your product makes a big difference. It ensures safety while aligning with consumer expectations.
Food Safety: A Non-Negotiable Priority
Let’s be real—sustainability matters, but not at the cost of safety. No one wants contaminated food.
Plastic food packaging plays a key role in food hygiene. It forms a strong barrier between your product and external contaminants like dust, bacteria, and moisture. According to the UK Food Standards Agency, only plastics that meet food-contact regulations—like the wine glass and fork symbol—should be used in food packaging.
When used correctly, plastic prevents:
- Cross-contamination
- Spoilage during transit
- Early oxidation
- Exposure to allergens
That’s why food manufacturers still rely on plastic. It helps you meet safety regulations while delivering the quality your customers trust.
What About Sustainability?
Now for the elephant in the room.
There’s no denying the impact plastic has on the environment. If not disposed of properly, it can end up in landfills or oceans. But the truth is, the problem isn’t plastic itself—it’s how we use and manage it. The FSA warns against using ocean-bound recycled plastic in direct food-contact packaging due to safety concerns.
We believe in responsible plastic packaging. That means:
- Offering recyclable or biodegradable options
- Using minimal plastic designs
- Promoting reusability wherever possible
- Supporting closed-loop recycling systems
As a business, you have the power to make better packaging choices. And we’re here to help you find that sweet spot between performance and planet.
The Rising Demand for Alternatives
You’ve probably noticed the shift. More customers are asking, “Is this packaging recyclable?” or “Is this plastic safe for the environment?”
Here’s what’s trending in the packaging world:
- Compostable packaging (plant-based, breaks down naturally)
- Bioplastics (made from corn or sugarcane)
- Recycled plastic (reduces virgin material use)
- Paper-based options with barrier coatings
We offer a wide range of eco-friendly food packaging supplies that still give you the benefits of traditional plastic—with a lighter footprint.
So, Is Plastic Packaging a Sustainability Risk?
Short answer: It can be—but doesn’t have to be.
The key lies in how you use it.
Use plastic when it adds value—like keeping perishable food fresh longer. Choose recyclable or reduced-plastic formats when possible. Educate your customers about proper disposal.
It’s not about banning plastic. It’s about being smarter with it.
And when you’re sourcing packaging from a supplier like us, you’re already taking the right step. We keep sustainability in mind at every stage of our process—from material selection to product delivery.
How We Support You
We get it—navigating packaging choices can feel like a minefield. That’s where we come in.
We make it easy for you to choose the right food packaging supplies for your needs. Whether you need durable plastic containers, recyclable trays, or biodegradable wraps—we’ve got your back.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Tailored solutions for your industry
- Food-grade, certified materials
- Eco-conscious packaging choices
- Bulk ordering at wholesale prices
- Reliable delivery across Australia
We’re not just a supplier—we’re your packaging partner.
Practical Tips for Smarter Plastic Packaging Use
You don’t have to overhaul your entire system overnight. Small changes make a big difference.
Here’s how you can level up your packaging game:
- Choose recyclable plastics like PET and HDPE
- Avoid multi-layer plastics that are hard to recycle
- Label clearly to guide consumers on disposal
- Switch to compostable or hybrid options where feasible
- Order in bulk to reduce packaging waste overall
By working with us, you get access to packaging experts who help you stay compliant and competitive.
What Makes Us Different?
We’re not just here to sell packaging—we’re here to help you build a smarter, safer, and more sustainable brand.
- We know what’s trending.
- We know what’s compliant.
- We know what works in the real world.
Our full range of plastic food packaging includes:
- Tamper-proof containers
- Resealable bags
- Clamshell trays
- Microwave-safe meal containers
- Eco-plastic wraps
- Portion control cups
All designed with your operations—and the environment—in mind.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Balance
You don’t have to choose between food safety and sustainability. With the right partner and packaging strategy, you can have both.
Livingstone International helps you strike that balance. You get durable, hygienic food packaging supplies that protect your products—and your brand. And you also get options that help you meet today’s green standards.
Plastic isn’t the enemy. Waste is. And with more intelligent choices, you can reduce waste, not quality.
FAQs
1. Is food packaged in plastic safe to eat?
Yes. All our plastic food packaging meets food-grade standards and keeps your products safe from contamination.
2. Can plastic packaging be recycled?
Many types can be used, including PET and HDPE. We offer recyclable options and guidance on correct disposal.
3. Are there alternatives to plastic packaging?
Absolutely. We provide compostable, paper-based, and bioplastic options to suit your sustainability goals.
4. How do I know which packaging suits my product best?
Speak to us! Our experts will assess your needs and suggest tailored solutions—without the guesswork.5. Do you offer eco-friendly packaging at wholesale prices?
Yes, we do. Get sustainable options without blowing your budget. Just reach out to our team.
