Claire Koelsch Sand

Minneapolis

Contributing Food Packaging Columnist at Packaging Digest

Contributing Editor and Packaging Science Columnist at IFT

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Articles

7 Packaging Innovations That Have Revolutionized Food the Last Half Century

Feb 14, 2025 | plasticstoday.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

Ah, 2025. We are in a new quarter of a century! It’s a milestone date, worthy of taking a breath and looking back at how far we’ve come. Packaging engineers have been busy these past 50 years and the impact of these seven food packaging innovations from the last half century (1975-2025) is powerful. 1.
3 Food Packaging Predictions for 2025 You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Feb 5, 2025 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

From microbial detection breakthroughs to new certification mandates and recycling innovations, discover what’s driving the next wave of packaging — and how to stay ahead of the curve. Packaging Technology and Research / Alyssa VentrellaAt a GlanceBrands will take action to clarify date-labeling and better communicate food safety for consumers and retailers. Key certifications will drive efforts to limit harmful chemicals to protect consumers, brands, and the environment.
7 Packaging Innovations That Have Revolutionized Food the Last Half Century

Jan 30, 2025 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

From the rise of PET bottles and aseptic cartons to advances in metallized films and digital printing, these groundbreaking packaging developments have shaped the way we package, store, and consume food — and have revolutionized our daily lives. Alpaksoy / iStock via Getty Images PlusAt a GlanceFood packaging innovations over the past 50 years have improved preservation, convenience, and sustainability.
7 Celebrations in Food Packaging Science

Aug 13, 2024 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

Many conferences showcase packaging. But few focus on the packaging science that meets the needs of the food industry. IFTfirst does. IFTfirst means Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. The 2024 event took place mid-July in Chicago. The energy level was high with a focus on future-proofing innovation required to meet the current crisis in the food industry.
Renewed Interest in Antimicrobial Packaging: Enhancing Food Safety and Shelf Life

Jul 8, 2024 | foodhq.world | Claire Koelsch Sand

Antimicrobial packaging, an innovative solution to control microbial growth in packaged food, is gaining renewed interest due to consumer demand for food with fewer preservatives. This packaging involves the deliberate incorporation of antimicrobial substances that are released into the environment surrounding the packaged food, offering a controlled method to enhance food safety and shelf life. Historical and Modern ApplicationsThe concept of antimicrobial packaging is not new.
Summer Road Trip: Paperboard Coatings

Jul 1, 2024 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

Coating innovations in high gear. A bit of knowledge will help you steer clear of coating dispersion paperboard misnomers. At a GlanceBio-derived recyclable/repulpable and/or compostable/biodegradable coatings exemplify sustainable sourcing and disposal. Binders and pigments create thinner coating layers and are heat-sealed at lower temperatures than extrusion emulsions. Learn the key characteristics and specifications that differentiate mono-materials and plastic-free materials.
PackJam ’24 Proves a Resounding Success

May 28, 2024 | packagingdigest.com | Min L. DeGruson |Claire Koelsch Sand

More than 250 students and industry professionals attended the 37th Pack-Jamboree aka PackJam’24 hosted by the University of Wisconsin–Stout. At a GlanceIt’s More than a Package was the theme of the 37th Pack-Jamboree aka PackJam '24. Strong industry support energizes future packaging professionals. Students showcased innovation, sustainability, and professional growth.
Min L. DeGruson

May 28, 2024 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand |Min L. DeGruson

Min L. DeGrusonAssociate Professor, Program Director, University of Wisconsin-Stout, College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management, Engineering & Technology Department. Her research focuses primarily on synthesis and characterization of bio-based polymers for food packaging applications, and using nanotechnology to improve their mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties with additional functions such as antimicrobial property.
Packaging Can Work Harder to Prevent Food Waste

Apr 24, 2024 | packagingdigest.com | Claire Koelsch Sand

With Earth Day this week and Stop Food Waste today, we consider how brands and stakeholders can leverage packaging to reduce food waste. At a GlancePackaging is vital to preserve food, food security, and the environment. Packaging is key to prevent food waste, which is crucial for climate action. Collaboration drives innovative packaging to reduce food waste sustainably. Food packaging has a unique role in protection.
Packaging for Better Food Security

Feb 5, 2024 | ift.org | Claire Koelsch Sand

There are numerous definitions of food insecurity, but simply put, food insecurity generally exists when people do not have adequate physical, social, or economic access to food. Moreover, food security is included in the Zero Hunger (Goal 2) of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Statistics vary within countries and regions due to conflict, natural disasters, drought, war, political upheaval, and crop and labor shortages.