Although replacing plastic containers with cardboard packaging might seem like a good solution, that's not always the case. In some contexts, product conservation requires a barrier to protect from air or humidity. Cardboard packaging must then be laminated with a layer of plastic that acts as a barrier, or fibers must be treated to cover that function. The resulting combination of materials makes it impossible to separate them and considerably complicates recovery and recycling activities. In short, when it comes to ecodesign, there's never a perfect solution. It's better to keep a overall view of the impacts before making decisions.

We can't say it enough: Packaging has a very specific function, which is to protect and preserve the product. A product that is altered or broken because it has not been adequately protected will have a greater impact on the environment than the appropriate packaging. Thus, when it comes to bulk food, it's essential to consider the conservation of perishable products and how to protect them against humidity, oxygen, light and the many contaminants. Frequent handling also raises important hygiene issues. Depending on the context, the choice of returnable or reusable packaging can have more benefits than the traditional bulk offering.