Why Ice Cream Boxes Brands Pick Plastic Prints Over Paperboard

When it comes to ice cream, the debate between plastic prints and paperboard containers is as intense as choosing between chocolate and vanilla. 

Although each option has advantages, an ice cream company that chooses plastic prints over paperboard does so for strategic reasons rather than just out of chance by various factors. 

Let’s reach into why some ice cream brands are opting for plastic prints, and what advantages they offer over their paperboard counterparts.

1. Superior Product Protection

Ice cream is a delicate product, and maintaining its texture, flavor, and freshness is paramount. Plastic prints are often chosen for their superior barrier properties, which help to protect the ice cream from external factors like moisture and air that can cause freezer burn or flavor degradation.

The Science Behind It: Plastic containers, particularly those made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), provide a more effective barrier against moisture and oxygen compared to paperboard. This means that the ice cream stays fresher for longer, offering customers the best possible experience every time they open a print.

2. Durability and Strength

One of the most practical reasons for choosing plastic prints is their durability. Ice cream containers go through a lot from being filled at the factory to being shipped, stored, and eventually scooped out by customers. Plastic prints are less likely to get damaged during this process, ensuring that the product reaches the consumer in perfect condition.

Resilience in Action: Plastic prints are less prone to dents, tears, and leaks compared to paperboard. This makes them particularly appealing for brands that want to minimize the risk of damaged products and ensure a consistent customer experience.

3. Enhanced Visual Appeal

Packaging isn’t just about protection; it’s also a crucial aspect of branding. Plastic prints offer a sleek, modern look that can make a product stand out on the shelves. The glossy finish and the ability to incorporate clear windows or vibrant full-color printing allow brands to showcase their ice cream in a visually appealing way.

Branding Potential: With plastic prints, brands can achieve a more premium look that can attract attention in a crowded freezer aisle. The material also allows for more creative label designs and finishes, helping the product to communicate quality and care from the moment customers lay eyes on it.

4. Consumer Convenience

Consumer convenience and feasibility is a crucial factor in the packaging Industry. Plastic prints are often seen as more user-friendly due to their ability. These features make it easier for customers to open, scoop, and reseal the container, preserving the ice cream’s freshness for future servings.

Ease of Use: Plastic containers are generally easier to handle, especially when it comes to scooping out ice cream. The rigid structure provides a stable grip, and the resealable lids help keep the ice cream fresh, even after multiple openings.

5. Temperature Insulation

Maintaining the perfect temperature is critical in ice cream storage. Plastic prints tend to offer better insulation compared to paperboard, which can help keep the ice cream at the optimal temperature for longer periods, both in the store and at home.

The Cold Factor: Plastic’s insulating properties help to slow down the melting process when the container is out of the freezer, ensuring that the ice cream maintains its ideal consistency for longer.

6. Environmental Considerations

While it might seem counterintuitive, some plastic prints are more environmentally friendly than paperboard options, depending on the material and production process. Plastic recycling has made it easier to recycle plastic, and some companies are opting for recycled plastic or bioplastics to become environment friendly.

Sustainability Focus: Brands that choose plastic prints may be doing so with a focus on recyclability or using materials that are more sustainable than traditional paperboard, which often includes a plastic coating that makes it harder to recycle.

7. Cost-Effectiveness

Finally, cost plays a significant role in packaging decisions. In some cases, plastic prints can be more cost-effective than paperboard, especially when considering the total lifecycle of the product, including production, shipping, and storage. The durability of plastic can reduce the need for returns or replacements due to damaged packaging.

Bottom Line: For brands looking to balance quality with cost, plastic prints can offer a competitive advantage by lowering overall costs without compromising on the customer experience.

Conclusion

Choosing plastic prints over paperboard isn’t just about picking one material over another, it’s about making a strategic decision that aligns with the brand’s goals for product quality, customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility. 

Whether it’s for better product protection, enhanced branding, or cost savings, plastic prints offer several advantages that can give an ice cream brand the edge it needs in a competitive market.