Aseptic bag-in-box (BIB) is a packaging format that uses an airtight, plastic-lined resealable container to keep liquid products safe and fresh. This type of packaging is often used to store a variety of food and beverages, as well as pharmaceutical products and industrial chemicals.
BIBs are an eco-friendly choice because they require less energy and produce fewer emissions than traditional containers, such as glass bottles. They are also more space-efficient and can be stacked without causing dead space between the boxes.
This type of packaging is commonly used to store milk, juice, coffee and other beverage products. The rectangular shape of a BIB also makes it easy to transport and store in a warehouse or storage facility. This saves time, money and energy as it reduces the amount of packaging needed to get to a customer.
The shape of a BIB also helps minimize the risk of cross contamination. It also allows for easier storage because it fits tightly into standard refrigerators.
A BIB has a resealable closure and a tap like switch that makes it convenient to open and take out. This can extend shelf life, improve product safety and make it easier for consumers to re-use the packaging.
These packages can be manufactured using a variety of materials and can be printed or embossed with unique designs. These designs can make them stand out on shelves and make them more attractive to customers, increasing sales and brand recognition.
BIBs are also more affordable than traditional containers. They don't have a high investment cost and can be reused, making them an ideal solution for small-scale operations.
Another benefit of a BIB is its durability and strength. It can be resealed many times and can withstand high temperatures, so it will not break when exposed to heat or cold.
It's also made of metalized film, which helps to protect the product from air and moisture. It can also be coated with film oil to preserve the product's taste, aroma, and color.
When filled, BIBs can be stored for up to a year in temperatures that range from room temperature to 50 degrees Celsius. This means that they are a great option for food and beverage distributors who want to sell their products for longer periods of time or those who have a large inventory.
A BIB is also more sustainable than pails because it uses a lower density material than most plastic pails, which means that it requires fewer resources to manufacture and produces fewer emissions and waste. This is especially true when the bag is recycled.
The market for BIBs is growing 3-5% annually, and this growth is mainly driven by the fact that they are environmentally friendly and easy to use. The use of a BIB has helped to reduce the amount of preservatives used and also improves food safety.
Rapak Europe estimates that the BIB segment in Europe will reach 62m liters this year. It has seen significant growth in the food service industry, as well as in B2B applications such as liquid packaging, NPD and inter-company transit.