Encirc: Brits call on government to back safer packaging

A new UK-wide survey has revealed a clear public appetite for change in food and drink packaging. Almost three quarters of consumers would support government action to increase the use of glass, amid growing concern over chemicals, plastics and taste.

Commissioned by Encirc, the UK’s leading glass container manufacturer and filler, and carried out by Censuswide, the poll of 2,000 adults found that 73 percent want to see stronger policies that encourage brands to use more glass packaging.

The survey found:

• 76 percent say a ‘microplastic-free’ label would influence purchasing

• 67 percent are concerned about chemicals in food and drink

• 73 percent support government action to encourage more glass packaging

• Consumers are 7 times more likely to prefer the taste of drinks in glass

The shift comes as 67 percent of people report concerns about chemicals in their food and drink, with plastic packaging increasingly under scrutiny.

Taste is also part of the picture. Respondents were seven times more likely to prefer the taste of drinks when packaged in glass than plastic or cans – a belief that’s reinforced by science. Glass’s inert nature means it does not leach chemicals, distort flavour or react with what’s inside; it preserves the contents as they are meant to be enjoyed.

Sean Murphy, Managing Director at Encirc, said, “This is a clear wake-up call for the packaging industry. People want safety, sustainability and quality. Being chemically inert and infinitely recyclable, glass delivers all three – and the public is asking for a change to how their food and drink is packaged. We need joined-up action between government and industry to meet that demand.”

Encirc, one of the UK’s largest producers and fillers of glass bottles, part of the Vidrala group, says the data is an opportunity for policy to catch up with public demand. With 76 percent of consumers saying they would be influenced by a microplastic-free label the case for change is growing.