If empty space in a package is “functional”—i.e., it keeps a product from breaking or discourages theft in the story—it’s allowed under the federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. The FDA administers the regulation for personal-care and food items, while FTC covers other consumer products, says consumerreports.org. But how often is the regulation enforced by either FDA or FTC?
Consumer Reports magazine tackles slack fill
Nonfunctional slack fill has always been a problem in the packaging sector. Consumer Reports brands them with the Black Hole Award.
Dec 15, 2009
Liquid Foods Innovations Report
Welcome to the inaugural Packaging World/ProFood World Innovations Report on liquid food packaging, drawn from nearly 300 PACK EXPO International booth visits (Chicago, Nov. 3–6, 2024). Our editors highlight the most groundbreaking equipment and materials—supported by video demos—that promise to transform how liquid foods are processed, packaged, and delivered.
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Construction strategies for volatile F&B markets
See how leading manufacturers are fast-tracking projects despite economic uncertainty. Get proven tactics for overcoming tariffs, labor shortages, and rising costs.
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