The right package for a beverage not only makes it look good, but protects the contents inside and extends product shelf life. There are a variety of package materials to choose from when deciding on a beverage container. The most common packaging materials are:

Glass - The traditional packaging for beverages is still popular in the industry and gives a premium look and feel to a product. Glass bottles are used for sodas, sparkling water, wines and alcohol and even for iced teas and colas. Beverages that need to be stored for a long time are safest in glass bottles as these are non-porous and impermeable. Completely recyclable, glass bottles are often reused by the same manufacturer after a thorough cleaning process.

Aluminum - This is the most common among packaging materials for beverages and one sees cans of beer and of sodas everywhere. This is popular for its versatility as aluminum cans are light and can be shaped easily. Aluminum is popular for its ability to be recycled easily.

Plastic - Plastic is used in two forms in the beverage industry, as PET bottles and as HDPE. Plastic has proved itself for its durability and can be completely recyclable. One sees plastic in use as packaging materials for bottled water, fruit drinks and juices, colas and even for milk.

TetraPaks - These are an innovation in packaging design and involve layers of closely packed materials most of which are recyclable that protect the beverage from bacteria and contamination. These are paper based cartons but coated with plastic that allows for heat sealing if required. This is popular with fruit drinks and juices and even for milk.

More and more industries and beverage manufactures are shifting to the use of packaging materials that are safe for the environment and can be recycled. Recycling packaging material is not only good for the environment, but helps the economy by creating new jobs as well as creates a new demand for these products.