MVI250 Packaging Technology

The course includes an introduction to relevant topics within food packaging technology; This includes Packaging materials: types, processing methods properties and application; Packaging technology: packaging methods and packaging machines; regulations for food contact materials, packaging in terms of sustainability including downstream aspects (such as recycling of materials) and relevant technical terms related to packaging technology.

Emphasis will be put on dissemination related to the UN’s sustainability goal. and on an overall level linked to sustainability goals 9, 13, 14 and 15.

MVI250 focuses on several parts of the value chain with the aim of contributing to sustainable packaging systems. This includes e.g. knowledge about packaging materials, packaging methods, storage and supply with the intention to

• ensure product quality and optimal shelf life as well as prevent/reduce food waste (goal 12.3)
• efficient use /least possible use of resources (goal 9.4 and 12)
• result in as low environmental impact as possible and reduce amount of waste (goal 12.5, 12.4 and 14.1)

The aim is a holistic approach such as considering the value/supply chain and optimal packaging solutions throughout the value chain rather than individual stages.

Teamwork / assignments

1. Theory: 2 topics in the curriculum; Packaging materials Glass and Metals. The groups familiarize themselves the content (literature from the compendium and other sources). Each group presents to the other groups.
2. Packaging materials, packaging method and food quality (2 hours): The groups perform measurements and assessments of different packaging materials, packaging methods/gases and food product

3. Packaging in practice: The groups choose a defined task for packaging the chosen food product. It is possible to choose between 2-3 different tasks with different degrees of practical work and theory. The assignment is presented by the whole group to the whole class

Excursion: Visit to two packaging manufacturers

After completing the course, the students are expected to have gain knowledge about packaging materials and packaging technology. They should be able to ask relevant questions related to selection of different packaging materials, suitability for different materials and applications, requirements to the packaging and storage of different food products and quality and shelf life. Furthermore, the students should be able to assess the packaging significance for the environment and factors to be considered when choosing and evaluate packaging solutions for a sustainability perspective.

Through the teamwork the student should have experience and learned to become acquainted with new knowledge, search in literature, assess and extract relevant information, and be able to design and present results and findings in understandable and good presentations.

They should have gained skills related to planning and carry out tasks, be able to work in teams and under management, and utilize their own and others creative skills.