The environment is a hot-button issue, a subject of much conversation, if not confrontation, especially during an election cycle. There are differing opinions, for example, on whether climate change exists and, if it does, whether mankind is responsible. No matter what the future may tell us about that debate, however, there can be little doubt that man-made waste contributes to the pollution of our land, sky and water, all of which pose a threat to our general health and well-being. For that reason and as society sharpens its focus on producing less waste, more attention is being paid to the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) than ever before.

Food manufacturers are attempting to show consumers that they follow sound policies regarding the environment. Although important in virtually every market, this corporate attitude strongly resonates with consumers of health foods. Not surprisingly, people who buy health food care not just about the food itself but health food packaging as well, which begs the question: Is there health food packaging that is Eco-friendly?

There is. It comes in the form of a stand up pouch. Stand up pouches, otherwise known as stand up bags, flat bottom side gusset barrier bags and Mylar® stand bags, are an exceptional choice for health food packaging. Constructed from multiple layers of scientifically designed film that are laminated together, stand up pouches are durable and both puncture and moisture-resistant. They protect health food (often very perishable) from vapor, odor, pests and, if necessary, ultraviolet light. The bag characteristics that keep those things out also seal in freshness, flavor and aroma, enabling health food to retain its nutritional value far longer than other packaging would. Of course, a longer shelf life means less packaging over time.

There is no packaging solution that is entirely sustainable. However, stand up pouches are a responsible, environmentally-sound alternative. A flat bottom stand up pouch uses 12% less film than other plastic bags of the same size. Not only does this mean that more bags can be produced using the same amount of raw material and energy, less fuel per unit is needed to transport stand up pouches.

Stand up pouches really stand apart from the competition because they are recyclable and landfill friendly, taking up very little space when empty and much less energy to produce, store and ship.

Stand up pouches: Health food packaging that is healthy for Mother Earth.