Ketchup In A Tube? Why This Packaging Is Common In Parts Of Europe - Tasting Table

"According to tube manufacturer Etma, food tubes make up about 8% of the European tube market, behind others used for toothpaste and beauty products. The entire market is worth nearly $13 billion, per Mobility Foresights. Etma cites ease of handling, resealability, lightweight design, and durability as reasons for its growing popularity. In particular, the barrier properties are called out as a strength for the food market."

"Tubes are impermeable to light, air, water, and bacteria, and they are nearly unbreakable. That means fewer preservatives are required. Portion control and less waste making for a more economical package are also considerations. The smaller size of a tube makes it more convenient for transport and storage, too."

"The tube design lets you squeeze out the very last drop as you would with toothpaste, something a glass bottle can never let you do. One company even advertises the potential for creativity since you can use a tube like a piping bag."

"Food packaged in tubes is nowhere near as popular in North America as it is in Europe, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. You can buy tomato paste in a tube at Walmart. Considering how hard it is to get tomato paste out of a can normally, and how you may not want to use a whole can at one time, a tube with portion control is a good idea."

Ketchup in North America is commonly served via pump dispensers, single-serve packets, or bottles. In parts of Europe, ketchup and other condiments are often packaged in tubes similar to toothpaste. Food tubes represent a smaller share of the European tube market but are growing due to ease of handling, resealability, lightweight design, and durability. Barrier properties make tubes impermeable to light, air, water, and bacteria, which can reduce the need for preservatives. Tubes also support portion control and reduce waste, improving economics. Their smaller size aids transport and storage, and squeezing allows dispensing nearly the last drop. Tubes can also be used creatively like piping bags.

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