1. Plastic
- Pros: Versatile, lightweight, durable, inexpensive, customizable.
- Cons: Often not biodegradable, leading to significant pollution problems. Recycling rates can be low, and some types of plastic are difficult to recycle.
2. Paper and Paperboard
- Pros: Recyclable, renewable, versatile.
- Cons: Not as strong as some materials, can be susceptible to moisture damage. Production can contribute to deforestation if not sourced responsibly.
3. Metal (Aluminum and Steel)
- Pros: Strong, durable, preserves contents well, recyclable.
- Cons: Production can be energy-intensive. Mining for raw materials can have environmental impacts.
4. Glass
- Pros: Inert (non-reactive), preserves flavors and aromas, recyclable, reusable.
- Cons: Heavy, which increases transportation costs. Prone to breakage.
5. Bioplastics
- Pros: Potential for reduced environmental impact, derived from renewable materials.
- Cons: Some types may not be fully biodegradable. Production can compete with food resources. Currently, more expensive than traditional plastics in some cases.
Important Note: The most common packaging material can sometimes depend on the specific product and industry.