In the competitive world of consumer goods, food packaging printing plays a vital dual role: protecting the product and winning over consumers. Whether it’s a grab-and-go snack or a premium meal kit, packaging needs to be both functional and eye-catching. But more importantly, it must meet strict safety standards to ensure that food quality is preserved from production to plate.
At Shawmut Communications Group, we understand that successful food packaging is more than just good design—it’s about delivering complete packaging solutions that comply with regulations, maintain product integrity, and elevate your brand in the marketplace.
Why Safety Is Paramount in Food Packaging Printing
When printing on packaging intended for food contact, safety is the top priority. Packaging materials must comply with FDA regulations, and the printing process itself must prevent contamination, migration, or any compromise of the food.
This is where material selection becomes critical. For direct food contact packaging, solid bleached sulfate (SBS) boards or poly-coated boards are most commonly used. SBS is a high-quality, food-safe board made from virgin fiber, ideal for printing vivid graphics while providing excellent strength and cleanliness. Poly-coated boards offer a moisture barrier, which is essential for packaging that may come into contact with greasy, moist, or frozen foods.
Choosing the Right Board for the Application
Understanding the intended use of your packaging helps guide the selection of the right board:
- SBS Board – Best for dry foods, premium food brands, and packaging that prioritizes graphic presentation and cleanliness.
- Poly-Coated Board – Preferred for frozen or refrigerated foods and applications requiring a grease- or moisture-resistant barrier.
The wrong material can lead to product degradation, safety risks, or regulatory issues. This risk is why working with a knowledgeable printing partner is so important.
The Importance of SQF Certification
At Shawmut, we are currently working toward achieving SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification by Q3. This globally recognized certification is a rigorous benchmark of food safety management and compliance throughout the packaging supply chain.
Why does SQF matter? Simply put, more and more clients are demanding it.
SQF certification:
- Validates that our processes meet the highest food safety standards
- Ensures traceability and consistency across production
- Demonstrates our commitment to quality, safety, and accountability
Achieving SQF certification is no small feat—it involves comprehensive audits, documentation, employee training, sanitation protocols, and continuous improvement plans. But for Shawmut, it’s another step in our mission to provide best-in-class service for clients in the food and beverage industry.
Effective Food Packaging Printing: Balancing Safety and Visual Appeal
While safety and compliance are foundational, visual appeal still reigns supreme when it comes to influencing purchasing decisions. Today’s food brands need packaging that tells a story, clearly communicates nutrition and branding, and stands out in the crowded retail environment.
Our team of experts helps clients harness the power of high-impact design, vibrant CMYK printing, and specialty coatings to ensure your food packaging does more than just protect—it persuades.
Conclusion
Food packaging printing is a complex intersection of safety, design, and performance. From selecting the right board for the product to navigating regulatory demands and achieving SQF certification, Shawmut is not just a service provider, but your trusted packaging partner.
If you’re looking for a packaging printer that combines safety, precision, and visual excellence, reach out to Shawmut Communications Group—where print meets performance.
