Should health be part of sustainable packaging? 

When we talk about sustainable packaging, should we focus only on environmental performance, or should health, safety and product protection also be part of the conversation? 

Packaging has a fundamental role: it protects what we eat, drink and use. It helps preserve quality, avoid contamination, reduce product waste and give consumers confidence in the products they choose. These functions are essential to sustainability, even if they are sometimes less visible than carbon footprint or recyclability. 

For food and beverage packaging in particular, material choice matters. Glass has long been valued for its inertness, purity and ability to preserve taste and quality. 

For brands, retailers and sustainability teams, this evidence supports a broader understanding of sustainable packaging: one that considers both environmental performance and people’s wellbeing.