Food storage containers are widespread in use throughout the world and have probably been in use since the first human civilizations.
Video Food storage container
Early civilizations
In early civilizations cereal grains such as maize, wheat, barley etc. were stored in large airy buildings, often raised up from the ground to reduce infestation by pests and vermin. Ancient Egyptian and early Hebrew writings include reference to such buildings and their successors can still be seen in use in less developed countries and regions.
Smaller quantities of food were stored in baskets made from woven grasses or leaves and such designs have remained in use to the present day.
In more recent times but prior to the invention of the refrigerator many food products were stored in the home as preserves or pickles, often in heat sealed jars such as Kilner jars
Maps Food storage container
Modern containers
In the modern developed world, a very wide range of food packaging and containers is now available made from many materials.
- Plastic containers
Many products use low-density polyethylene formed into plastic bags or plastic boxes. There are many makers of plastic boxes some such as Tupperware and Lock & Lock are known throughout much of the developed world.
- Metal containers
Longer term storage or storage of items needing a higher degree of protection from the elements may use sheet metal. A common form of such storage is the biscuit tin. See Canning.
- Refrigerator
Perhaps the most ubiquitous domestic item of food storage is the fridge or fridge-freezer in which a wide variety of foodstuffs are contained and preserved through the use of low temperatures.
- Disposable
Disposable foam food containers may be used for food or beverages.
Industrial food storage containers
Wherever food is harvested, manufactured or distributed there is a need for containers to enable the food to travel securely and in good condition to the shop, warehouse or distribution depot. For many foods, especially those in their own individual containers such as canned vegetables, the common container is the corrugated fiberboard box, Corrugated boxes are available in many sizes.
A variety of Bulk boxes are also used.
See also
- Food storage
- Reusable packaging
- Shaker-style pantry box
References
- Robertson, G. L. (2013). "Food Packaging: Principles & Practice". CRC Press. ISBN 978-1-4398-6241-4
- Soroka, W, "Fundamentals of Packaging Technology", IoPP, 2002, ISBN 1-930268-25-4
- Yam, K.L., "Encyclopedia of Packaging Technology", John Wiley & Sons, 2009, ISBN 978-0-470-08704-6
Source of article : Wikipedia
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