Packaging for non-food / consumer goods at interpack

Packaging reimagined: Non-food innovations at interpack

interpack is the world’s leading platform for the packaging industry and related process industries. It is the only trade fair to cover the entire value chain – from materials such as barrier films to specialist packaging for consumer goods and industrial products. Here, international manufacturers meet discerning customers to discover new products and discuss trends. For companies in the consumer goods sector, interpack is not just a trade fair, but a tailor-made source of inspiration.

For non-food packaging in particular, interpack offers innovations that are precisely tailored to the industry’s current challenges – for example, in terms of sustainable packaging, resource-efficient applications and intelligent machine solutions. The trade fair impresses with a strong range of packaging concepts for non-food items and showcases the full diversity of packaging types and materials – from plastic to glass. Find out more about the hot topics at interpack here.

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Sustainability as a driver of innovation in the non-food sector

Sustainability has long been a key factor in purchasing decisions – including in the non-food sector. Consumer goods such as household items, cosmetics and cleaning products are increasingly demanding environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Manufacturers are responding with recyclable materials, resource-efficient processes and innovative specialist packaging, for example made from single-material or renewable raw materials.

Barrier films are a particular focus: they must guarantee protection and shelf life whilst also being recyclable – a challenge that is being addressed with impressive solutions at interpack. Whether in non-food packaging made from paper composites or the use of bio-based plastics – the industry is demonstrating how sustainability and functionality can be combined.

As a visitor to interpack, you will experience how sustainability is not only implemented but also strategically conceived throughout the entire value chain – from design and production right through to recycling.

Exhibitors & Products

interpack Magazine

interpack Topics

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Meet our current exhibitors from the non-food and consumer goods industry

At interpack 2026, leading manufacturers and developers of non-food packaging will showcase innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for consumer goods and everyday items. From smart specialist packaging for delicate products to robust industrial packaging, exhibitors will demonstrate the full spectrum of modern non-food packaging technology.

Look forward to meeting international companies that set the standards in areas such as barrier films, packaging design, sustainable materials and mechanical engineering. The exchange is particularly worthwhile for manufacturers in the cosmetics, household goods and technology sectors – as this is where partnerships, trends and new markets are forged.

Take the opportunity to get to know the suppliers in person and work together to develop solutions for your future challenges.

INTERPACK MAGAZIN for non-food packaging

INTERPACK MAGAZIN is your authoritative source of information on the key topics in the non-food sector – from the development of smart packaging solutions to sustainable concepts for consumer goods packaging. Anyone interested in innovations in areas such as packaging machinery, barrier films or recyclable non-food products will find what they’re looking for here.

The magazine provides you with relevant industry content all year round and offers exclusive insights into new materials, markets and requirements. The sections on consumer goods and non-food items are particularly worthwhile for decision-makers and developers alike.

NEW!

Natural insulation from feathers

NON-FOOD PACKAGING

Why ‘right-sizing’ your parcel packaging is good for the planet, and the bottom line

NON-FOOD PACKAGING

Everything in crisis? The packaging industry before interpack 2023

Further articles on the non-food industry

For new ideas, new tastes and textures, new colours and shapes – and for new delicious packaging

In view of increased consumer demands, rapidly changing trends and growing responsibility, it is enormously dependent on innovative processes and intelligent packaging. Because in hardly any other industry do traditions, laws and regulations accumulate as much as here.

As a visitor, you benefit from an internationally unrivalled variety of innovations on display and a unique market overview. In 2017, 98 percent said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their visit to interpack.

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Visit the interpack trade fair

interpack is the ideal platform for trade visitors working in the food industry – whether in development, production, procurement or marketing. The trade fair is not only an international meeting place but also a driving force for economic growth. The diversity of innovations, particularly in the field of sustainable packaging and recyclable materials, attracts tens of thousands of decision-makers from all over the world every year.

Trends such as smart machines for meat processing or automated filling systems for snacks are just as well represented as resource-efficient plastic solutions or compostable food packaging. At interpack, you can experience the industry’s highlights first-hand – from initial prototypes to market-ready solutions.

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Packaging in the Non-Food industry

What are the most common materials used for non-food packaging?

Typical materials include plastics (e.g. PE, PP), cardboard, glass, aluminium, barrier films and composites – depending on the product type and requirements for protection, design or functionality.

What are the advantages of reusable packaging in the non-food sector?

They reduce raw material consumption, minimise waste, enhance brand perception and meet growing consumer demands for sustainability.

What are the recycling processes for non-food packaging?

Recycling depends on the type of material: mechanical for single-type plastics and paper, thermal for composites. A prerequisite is a design suitable for recycling (‘Design for Recycling’).

What legal provisions apply to non-food packaging?

In the EU, the Packaging Ordinance, the Packaging Act (VerpackG) and REACH apply, amongst others. Special safety and labelling requirements also apply to consumer goods.

What is sustainable packaging in the non-food sector?

It is made from environmentally friendly materials, is recyclable, produced in a resource-efficient manner and designed to be efficient throughout its entire life cycle.

What technologies are used in the production of non-food packaging?

These include injection moulding, thermoforming, blow moulding, lamination, digital printing, as well as intelligent automation solutions and smart manufacturing.

How can I choose the right packaging material for my non-food product?

Consider product protection, shelf life, transport requirements, environmental aspects and legal requirements – as well as the desired brand image.

What are the current trends in the non-food packaging industry?

Key topics include: sustainable materials, barrier-free mono-solutions, refill systems, digital labelling and personalised packaging solutions.

What are the challenges facing the non-food packaging industry in terms of sustainability?

Recyclability, CO₂ reduction, material diversity, legal requirements and cost pressures – combined with high expectations from retailers and consumers.

What alternatives are there to plastic packaging in the non-food sector?

Paper composites, bio-based plastics, glass, metal, or textile-based solutions can be used as alternatives depending on the application.

How can the non-food packaging industry help reduce environmental impact?

By using lighter materials, reusable concepts, low-emission production, sustainable design, and recycled raw materials.

What role does packaging play in extending the shelf life of non-food products?

It protects against moisture, light, oxygen, and dirt—crucial, for example, for electronics, cosmetics, or cleaning products. Special barrier films also contribute to this.

How does packaging affect the selling price of non-food products?

Design, material choice, and functionality strongly influence perceived value. High-quality packaging often justifies higher prices and strengthens brand loyalty.