Webinar underlines the importance of safe packaging

The webinar saw discussions on safe packaging and best practices required in packaging. The hour-long session saw panelists who represented the key stakeholders in packaging which included supplier, manufacturer as well as a Brand’s point of view on the safe packaging.

Sukhdev Saini of General Mills presented from a brand's perspective on packaging safety and how it impacts food safety. Saini spoke on how General Mills was the creator of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, and how the seven principles of HACCP forms the basis of most food quality and safety assurance systems. “HACCP has been recognised internationally as a logical tool for adapting traditional inspection methods to a modern, science-based, food safety system,” informed Saini.

Saini further highlighted the three-step evaluation to ensure food safe packaging. He said, “The first step is residual solvent wherein one identifies chemical compounds known to cause odour issues. The second step is the Jar Test; where detection of unknown, low odour threshold compounds; do not show up on GC analysis. The final step is the sensory test which helps to determine if the package will affect food product.” 

SN Venkataraman, divisional head – marketing with ITC’s Paperboards & Specialty Papers Division (PSPD), presented how packaging safety has evolved over the years and what controls needs to be exercised for packaging safety. In his presentation, Venkataraman spoke on the evolution paperboards and its use for packaging. He said, “The paperboards are now available with new barriers like biodegradable coatings and grease-resistant coating for food packaging.”

Further, Venkataraman spoke on the various packaging regulations governing food safety in India. In addition, he highlighted the role of recycled fibreboard and virgin fibreboard for food applications and its end use.

Jatin Takkar of Siegwerk India discussed the integration of packaging supply chain and its importance in packaging. Takkar spoke on how producing and compliant products is a must in food packaging. He said, “Any issue pertaining to food safety is crucial and can get public immediately. Plus it has a devastating impact because of social media.

He spoke on how ensuring compliance needs integrated approach throughout the food chain. Takkar said, “Sharing Information across the supply chain is required for risk assessment. The value chain for food is complex an hence the responsibilities have to be shared by all the stakeholders. Siegwerk proactively assumes responsibility by understanding the needs of each partner in the chain.”

The webinar saw a proactive question and answer round, wherein various questions pertaining to food safety was addressed by the panelist.