What is Co-Packing?
Co-packing (aka contract packaging) is when a specialized manufacturing partner produces and packages beverages for another company. Instead of building a beverage manufacturing facility, businesses can utilize a co-packer’s equipment, staff, and expertise to produce and/or scale their product. This type of outsourcing is common in the beverage industry because it allows businesses to focus on their core activities while reducing capital investments and costs.
Benefits of Co-Packing
- Reduce Risky Capital Investments
- Lower Staffing Requirements
- Efficient Production Scaling
- Faster Start-Up Time
- High Quality Production
- Access to Specilized Equipment
Co-packers are often tasked with product mixing, container filling, packaging, carton and tray packing, and storing beverage products.
What is SQF certification?
SQF (Safe Quality Food) is a globally recognized food safety certification established by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Co-packers with SQF certification meet strict standards for cleanliness, safety, and process control. This certification is designed to ensure food products are delivered safely to consumers, and all step within the production process and meet high quality standards.
What is MOQ?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the minimum volume of product a co-packer requires for a production run. It helps ensure efficient use of equipment and staff during beverage production.
What is Pilot Production?
Pilot production is a small-scale batch that is produced for trail, testing, and validation, before full-scale production begins.
What is Blending?
Blending is the process of combining a beverage’s ingredients to create a uniform mixture before canning.
What is Pasteurization?
Pasteurization is a heat-treatment process that kills harmful bacteria (e.g. E. Coli and Salmonella) while extending the shelf life of a product. Not all beverages require pasteurization, but it is commonly used for milk or juice drinks.
What Does “Shelf-Stable” Mean?
Shelf-stable food and beverages do not require refrigeration before opening. They are safe and the quality is not impacted at room temperature.