The food packaging industry in 2026 is shifting from broad green claims toward Substantiated Sustainability, driven by regulatory pressure and rising consumer scrutiny.
Innova’s Five Key Trends
- Substantiated Sustainability — EU PPWR and stricter green-claims rules
- Digital-Enhanced Designs — QR codes, AR and digital product passports
- Health-Forward Convenience — smaller, portable formats
- Packaged for You — personalised consumer engagement
- Sensory Unboxing — distinctive e-commerce packaging experiences
Implications for Food Brands
Leaders like Mondi and Coveris are advancing recyclable monomaterial and paper-based formats. Food brands must back sustainability claims with data and transparency to avoid greenwashing risk.
Source: FoodIngredientsFirst / Innova Market Insights