Which Packaging Materials Are Best For Packing and Shipping Spices?

Have you ever thought about the importance of spices in your life? Without these crucial elements, your food would remain bland and all those mouth-watering delights would never be prepared. Spices have been an important part of cultures around the world and formed one of the first commodities to be traded between international regions. 

When it comes to packing spices, a lot of care is taken these days due to the stringent quality control and the need for enhancing the shelf life of spices. The challenge is to choose the right packaging materials for packing and shipping spices such that they don’t get spoilt on the way and have adequate protection to preserve them in the best manner possible. Let’s check out some of the best packaging materials that can be used for packing and shipping spices around the world. 

Bulk Jute Bags

This is the traditional packaging material for spices when it comes to shipping them over long distances. It is a convenient option for shipping large quantities of spices with proper labelling. When it reaches the destination, the spices may be sold directly from the jute bags. This eliminates the need for the spices to be repacked into smaller packages before being sold. While using jute bags, it is important to first put the spices in a plastic bag and then put the plastic bag inside a jute bag. The jute provides protection from external elements while the plastic protects the contents from moisture and dust / dirt. 

Corrugated Boxes / Cartons

Corrugated boxes or cartons (as they are popular known) are used widely for packing and shipping spices. This works out pretty well for small quantities. However, for large quantities, jute packs are preferred. These cartons may be made in various sizes and have a lot of scope in terms of the addition of branding elements. Just like jute bags, it is not advisable to put the spices directly into these boxes. You would have to put the spices in plastic pouches / ziplock pouches (preferably with foil) and then place them inside the cartons. This provides dual protection from dust, moisture and external forces. 

Wooden Boxes

Wooden boxes are not used widely in packing and shipping of spices. Not only do the wooden boxes add unnecessary weight to the consignment, but it also does not justify the protection requirements for the contents. But if the purpose is to send a properly arranged set of spices (in small quantities), then wooden boxes make for an amazing presentation.

Re-closable Zip Lock Bags with Foil

Reclosable ziplock bags are gaining popularity as the packaging material of choice for spices. The flexible packaging design and excellent barrier properties make this one of the best packaging material for spices today. The bags are lined with foil and keep contents fresh for longer durations. Moreover, there is a huge scope for branding and providing adequate information on the labels used for this packaging design. From a consumer usage perspective, these bags can be used for packing small to medium quantities of spices which may be used directly from the package itself. Ideally, this packaging material is suitable for powdered spices or coarsely ground spices. 

Clear Poly-Sealed Bags

Clear poly-sealed bags are great for packing whole spices that are coarser and have greater volume. This packaging has an advantage wherein customers may view the contents and determine whether it is fit enough for consumption. The transparent packaging material actually works to build greater trust in the brand, apart from protecting the contents and ensuring prolonged freshness.