On-the-go packaging meets the demands of modern lifestyles

The size of the Indian snacks market in 2023 of Rs 42,694.9-crore is likely to reach Rs 95,521.8-crore in 2032 with a CAGR of 9.08%.

The on the go packaging market caters to the increasing demand for convenient, portable packaging solutions. Consumers today seek products that offer convenience and ease of use, leading to a surge in demand for on the go packaging across various industries.

With growing environmental concerns, there's a rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the on the go packaging market. Companies are focusing on eco-friendly materials and practices to reduce their carbon footprint and meet consumer expectations.

Consumption ease and sustainability by means of smart packaging and mini formats are the needs that modern-day consumers have. The key players of the industry are Nestle, P&G and Unilever that put emphasis on innovation and sustainability to become the best ones.

The eCommerce boom has led to increased demand for on the go packaging solutions, especially in the food delivery and online retail sectors. Advancements in material science have paved the way for innovative packaging materials that offer both convenience and sustainability.

Asia Pacific's packaging market is seeing a boost in growth at a fast pace as a result of the region's diverse packaging market. The Chinese and Indian markets are the biggest players in the areas of on-go snacking, ready-to-eat (RTE), and ready-to-cook (RTC) meals.

Millennials are said to be the forerunner of all the takeaway orders and with over 80% of all orders coming from this demographic, young urban consumers are the main driving force behind this popularity.

Plastic packaging facilitates the use of closing mechanisms such as resealable covers which extends the shelf life of perishable items, balancing the freshness of products. The consumption of plastics is usually the consequence and symptom of many economic development and social issues.

Coca-Cola's packaging plastic system is the single largest FMCG user, but this only absorbs 2% of the globe`s total.

Bags and pouch packages have now occupied a large part of RTE food products which depend on the product's packaging against their convenience, flexibility, and functionality.

Bags and pouches are lightweight and compact, thus they can be easily compressed and delivered. Moreover, they can be carried either while working, commuting, or while outdoors. Flexibility is one of their key benefits as they provide a more efficient storage and transportation occupies, while allowing for customised options such as resealable closures and tear notches to make the packaging even more user-friendly.

Mini food formats, characterised by their bite-sized or small portions, offer a wide range of options, from sweet or savoury treats to healthy alternatives and occasional indulgences.

These mini formats require specific transportation and protection, which on-the-go packaging meets perfectly. Brands like Oreo and Milka have introduced on-the-go ‘mini’ versions of their popular biscuits and chocolate bars to cater to this trend.

The demand for pouches used in candy and snack food packaging is projected to grow at a rate of 3.8% annually through 2022, reaching USD 3.4-billion.

The shift towards consuming small meals throughout the day disrupts the traditional three-meals-a-day mantra, driving the demand for single-portion packages and attractive, resealable, and easily disposable pouches.