Introduction

When you go shopping and you are looking for tuna, you are presented with two choices: the conventional canned tuna and the new generation tuna pouch. Although both deliver the same type of fish that is nutritious, the packaging techniques are quite different, and this affects both the production methods and the purchasing decisions. In the tuna business, the decision of tuna pouch vs can packaging is just one of many material choices that affect the business’s operational production costs and marketability.

The global tuna market is on the rise, especially the canned tuna market, which has reached approximately USD 11.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2028 (source: Global Market Insights). Pouch tuna has also increased recently, especially because of convenience, with sales increasing as consumers look for more convenient packaging. According to Euromonitor, the sales of tuna pouches in North America were 9% higher in 2022 than in the previous year.

This increase in demand brings into question the differences between these two packaging types for manufacturers: A significant question arises as to how these aspects of packaging processes affect the consumer experience and the organization of production lines. It is time to look more closely at the tuna pouch vs can comparison, looking at such factors as the material utilized, impacts on the shelf life, and how packaging shapes cost and environmental impact of the tuna market.

The Science Behind Packaging: Materials and Technology That Shape Tuna

Tuna Can Packaging

Canned tuna is one of the most common ways of preserving tuna, and it is done in metal containers made from steel or aluminum. The tuna is placed into these cans and the lid is closed and sealed to ensure that there is no air in the can. This process is suitable for attaining a long shelf life since it hinders the growth of bacteria. The tuna inside is normally in water or oil, depending on the type of tuna and the brand of the product. The addition of liquid, such as water or oil, is useful in retaining the moisture of the tuna, especially for the light tuna or chunk light tuna.

The following table gives an overview of the specifications of packets for various categories of tuna fish:

Even though the process is simple, this shelf-stable product’s downside is that it requires a can opener to retrieve the tuna from the can. Still, his small drawback comes with the advantage of its shelf life and the fact that one can store the product for several months or even years without fearing that it will go bad.

Tuna Pouch Packaging

Pouches are revolutionizing tuna packaging. Tuna pouches are easier to carry when compared to traditional tuna cans, and are easy to store as they take up less space in pantries. As these pouches are made of lightweight materials such as polymer films and alkali metals, they can be stored and folded anywhere with ease. Additionally, pouch tuna doesn’t need any water or oil added before cooking, so there is no need to drain liquid while making dishes such as tuna salad. This saves the consumer time and effort. On the contrary, this can lead to a softer texture of the product, especially if there is no liquid in tuna pouches. Although this may be fine for recipes such as casseroles, it may not be perfect for those who like to use large chunks of albacore tuna for a salad.

How Packaging Impacts Tuna Quality and Shelf Life

While both the pouch and the can packaging retain the quality and shelf life of tuna in different ways, they are two different packaging methods. Canned tuna can last longer due to the airtight seal and the added water or oil, which helps in moisture retention. This makes canned tuna to be stored in the pantry for months or even years before getting spoiled.

However, tuna pouches have a relatively shorter shelf life because they are not hermetically sealed like a can. Still, pouch tuna is less likely to spoil after opening because there is no need to drain the liquid. Most people prefer the taste and feel of pouch tuna because it has more of its natural juices and is suitable for preparing meals such as tuna and mayonnaise.

Balancing Cost and Efficiency: Comparing Tuna Packaging Solutions

When it comes to tuna pouches and can packaging, the decision is not only based on the taste and preference but also on the cost and the way of processing. Pouch tuna is relatively costly compared to other products because the materials used in the production process are polymer films and aluminum. Also, sealing and heat-treatment of the pouches are factors that add to the cost of production since they need specialized equipment.

On the other hand, canned tuna has been in production for a longer time than fresh tuna, and therefore its production process is well-developed and cheaper. Also, the packaging materials are cheaper than polymer films and aluminum used for pouches. Thus, canned tuna is cheaper per ounce, which makes it more attractive for manufacturers and consumers.

About storage and transportation, tuna pouches have an edge in this case. They are designed in a way that they can be easily stacked, and this makes them occupy little space in the pantry, and also when they are being transported. On the other hand, the rigidity of cans makes them bulky and they take more space for storage. They are heavier and therefore their transportation costs are high.

In the end, pouch tuna may seem more convenient when it comes to storage, but the cost is a factor that will stand in the way for many people. Canned tuna, while less convenient, is a budget-friendly alternative for those seeking to pay lower prices for tuna.

Sustainability in Tuna Packaging: Cans vs Pouches

Comparing the sustainability of tuna pouches and can packaging, it is possible to identify certain environmental issues with both solutions. Cans, though recyclable, have a higher environmental impact because of the energy and materials used in their production and closing. The formation of metal cans requires a lot of energy usage, so they contribute to the emission of more carbon.

On the other hand, tuna pouches, which are made from one or the other of the plastic-based material, have entirely different environmental issues. These materials are not easy to recycle and the problem of plastic waste is becoming more acute in the field of packaging. Therefore, pouch tuna packaging may be worse for the long-term environmental impact than cans.

Therefore, it should be mentioned that the packaging industry does not remain indifferent to both variants and is currently developing ways how to make them more environmentally friendly. For instance, some manufacturers are coming up with pouches that are made from biodegradable material or pouches made from plastics that can easily be recycled. In the same way, cans are being restyled with better recycling labels and better ways of manufacturing to help the environment.

Consumer Preferences: The Role of Tuna Packaging

The decision between the two types of tuna packaging may depend on the priorities of the consumers. Tuna pouches have become more popular than canned tuna because they are light in weight, easy to open, and do not need to be drained. This makes them ideal for busy individuals, families, and anyone who needs a quick meal. For many, the compact design also makes pouch tuna ideal for storage in small areas such as a pantry or camping gear.

Nonetheless, canned tuna is not unattractive, especially for buyers who are more concerned with product shelf-life and not novelty. Cans are more suitable for long-term storage and the sealed environment of the can will help to preserve the freshness of the food. Some people use canned tuna because of its texture, which is more solid than fresh tuna and is ideal for recipes such as tuna salads.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is not easy to determine whether it is better to use a tuna pouch or a can. It is a question of knowing what each type of packaging brings in terms of cost, productivity, eco-friendliness, and quality. In the case of manufacturers, the choice of packaging will be influenced by the following factors in equal measure. Both pouch tuna and canned tuna have their advantages and disadvantages, and both will remain relevant in the tuna industry.

Levapack is a company that deals with the packaging of canned tuna and it offers the best sealing solutions that are both efficient and long-lasting. Our equipment is made of 2mm thick #304 or #316 stainless steel, which is highly resistant to corrosion and easy to clean, thus guaranteeing the equipment’s durability and efficiency in the long run. Levapack equipment also ensures accurate control through the use of core components from Siemens, SEW, SMC, Schneider, and other internationally renowned brands, and also ensures low maintenance costs and long equipment life. Accompanied by a new 4000 square meter factory and advanced CNC machining technology, the monthly production capacity of the machines is more than 80 sets, and each set of machines will be tested to ensure that the sealing is accurate every time.

If you need tuna canning equipment, Levapack will offer you a solution that will enhance the efficiency and quality of your products. Please do not hesitate to contact us to find out how we can help you improve your packaging.