Dissolvable Packaging Requires Regulatory Insight

By Dr Caroline Potter

Dissolvable packaging for food and beverage has emerged as a possible solution to some of the most challenging issues facing the sector today. Widely associated with the reduction of single-use plastic, it can also aid portion control and help tackle food waste. Additional benefits include convenience and ease of use for consumers.

There have been several interesting and highly publicised developments in this space, such as MonoSol LLC’s water-soluble edible film, which is used as primary packaging for dry goods including single serve oatmeal, spices and instant coffee. Other currently available dissolvable food packaging include goods made with plant-based ingredients such as tapioca, seaweed and potato.

Dissolvable packaging is an exciting concept, and one that is ripe for further innovation. However, important regulatory factors need to be considered at the front end of the product development process, so they don’t stall progress later.