Packaging is the material and method used to enclose, protect, handle, store and present agricultural products from the farm to the consumer.

Branding is the process of giving a product a name, symbol, design or identity that distinguishes it from other products in the market.

1. To protect the product during handling, storage and transport.


2. To keep the product fresh and fit for consumption.


3. To present the product attractively to buyers.


4. To give the product an identity that customers can recognise and trust.


5. To provide information about the product such as contents, weight, origin and instructions.

1. Packaging protects agricultural products from damage, contamination and spoilage.


2. Packaging helps to extend the shelf life of perishable products.


3. Packaging attracts customers and makes products easier to handle and display.


4. Branding helps customers to recognise and choose a product repeatedly.


5. Branding builds consumer confidence and loyalty, and it helps to improve market presence for the producer.


6. Clear labels and brand information assist traders and consumers in making informed choices.

1. Protection: The package must protect the product from physical damage, moisture, pests and contamination.


2. Appropriateness: Materials and size must suit the product type.


3. Safety: Packaging must be safe for food contact and must not contaminate the product.


4. Clarity: Labels must be clear and honest about contents, weight, date, and instructions.


5. Economy: Packaging should be cost effective and not increase final price unnecessarily.


6. Sustainability: Prefer materials that are recyclable or biodegradable when possible.

1. Jute, sackcloth and woven bags: Used for bulk grains, yams and tubers.


2. Paper and cardboards: Used for dry packaged foods and boxes for processed goods.


3. Plastic bags and sacks: Waterproof and flexible but may not be biodegradable.


4. Polythene and polypropylene: Used for small retail packs and sealed products.


5. Glass bottles and jars: Used for fruit juices, jams and preserves.


6. Metal cans: Used for canned vegetables, fruits and fish.


7. Leaf wraps and natural fibre: Biodegradable and used in local markets.

1. Product name and brand name.


2. Name and address of producer or packer.


3. Net weight or quantity.


4. Date of packing and expiry or best-before date.


5. Ingredients and composition.


6. Instructions for storage and use.


7. Batch or lot number and traceability information.


8. Any required safety or regulatory marks.

Elements

1. Brand name.


2. Logo or symbol.


3. Colour scheme and design.


4. Tagline or slogan.


5. Packaging design.

Steps to Create a Brand

1. Choose a clear and memorable brand name.


2. Design a simple logo and consistent colour scheme.


3. Create a label that shows key information and the brand.


4. Test the design with potential customers and make improvements.


5. Use the same branding across all packages and adverts.

1. Producers must follow food safety and labelling rules of relevant authorities.


2. Meeting standards shows that the product is safe and of acceptable quality.


3. Use appropriate certifications and keep records for compliance.

1. Avoid excessive packaging that increases waste and cost.


2. Prefer recyclable, reusable or biodegradable materials.


3. Encourage consumers to reuse packaging.


4. Properly dispose of or recycle packaging to reduce pollution.

1. Local markets: Simple low-cost packaging with minimal labelling.


2. Urban retail: Branded retail packs or sealed polythene with labels.


3. Export markets: Strong export-grade packaging with full labelling.

1. Keep records of packing dates and batch numbers.


2. Use simple brand names and labels even on small-scale produce.


3. Start with low-cost but attractive labels.


4. Protect fresh produce from heat and sunlight.


5. Reuse clean packaging where safe.


6. Join cooperatives to share packaging costs.

1. Create a label and logo for a local agricultural product.


2. Pack samples using different materials and compare freshness.


3. Role play a market sale explaining brand and label to buyers.

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Summary

1. Packaging protects and preserves agricultural products.


2. Branding gives products identity and increases market value.


3. Good packaging and branding attract customers and build trust.


4. They support better record keeping, market access and management.