Food Packaging Trends for 2025

Regulatory frameworks, sustainability objectives, and consumer behavior are driving advancements in packaging innovation. Karolin Larsson, Product and concept designer, Duni Group, offers insights into the latest packaging trends and what to expect in the coming years.

The packaging trends continue to be influenced by sustainability and waste reduction, alongside customer demand for convenience. 

”We might also see tech development of smart labels, or packaging integrated with IoT (smart objects), and more systems for reusable packaging. As for material-choices, there will be developments toward the circular economy with design principles for circular material streams and clean raw materials”, says Karolin Larsson.

How has food packaging design evolved in recent years?

“In recent years, the development toward sustainability and circularity, has transformed the product’s function and aesthetics. Everything from materials, colors, finishes, forms, and functions are constantly improved and remodeled, all in the optics of fitting into our sustainability goals and convenience needs. Today, we look at packaging as a part of a system, with a holistic view, so it is a more complex item than before.”

What external factors influence food packaging design?

“There is a combination of many parameters that influence and shape the final product.”

“The starting point for design is customer behavior. For example, observing how food is used, stored, transported, prepared, sold or consumed, regional differences and local cuisines. By looking at the behaviors, we understand how to create a better experience for the customer.”

“But just as important factors are legislations like for example PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), hygiene and food safety regulations, that will determine what materials that can be used, together with the possible production methods and costs.”

How can packaging reduce food waste?

“With the help of packaging, food waste can be reduced in many different ways.”

“Different food categories have different needs for levels of protection. Parameters such as weight, density, temperature, and shelf life can change a lot. Therefore, a variety of materials and solutions are needed to suit each food item.”

“Sealed packaging using MAP (modified atmosphere) can extend shelf life. Smaller packaging helps customers buy only what they need. A hygiene-sealed feature reduces the risk of contamination. Markings, labels, or smart labels help guide the customer toward best-before dates, usage advice, traceability, etc. Resealable packaging allows consumers to store leftovers, while the doggy bag lets them take leftovers home."

“For some other innovative examples: edible coatings or active packaging, featuring for example moisture regulators or antimicrobial layers that protect the food from bacteria and fungi. Or the reuse of food waste such as coffee grounds, sugarcane fibers or shrimp shells and use it as raw material for packaging.”

What are your thoughts on the future of packaging?

“I’m looking forward to the continuous sustainable development and the future circular economy for food-packaging.”