Table of Contents
1. Packaging Types for Bulk Herbs
Choosing the right packaging protects product quality during shipping and storage. Here are the primary options for bulk herb and spice exports:
| Packaging Type | Sizes | Best For | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| PP Woven Bags | 25/50 kg | Whole herbs, seeds | 12-18 months |
| Multi-Wall Paper Sacks | 10/25 kg | Ground spices, powders | 12-15 months |
| Laminate Pouches (Al foil) | 1-25 kg | Premium herbs, essential oil-rich | 24-36 months |
| Vacuum Sealed | 5-25 kg | Whole flowers, delicate herbs | 18-24 months |
| Corrugated Cartons | 5-15 kg | Retail inner packs | 12 months |
2. Moisture Protection & Shelf Life
Moisture is the primary enemy of dried herb quality. Key considerations:
- Target moisture content: 8-10% for most dried herbs; ≤12% maximum for leaves and flowers
- Moisture barrier films: BOPP/PE or PET/Al/PE laminate structures prevent moisture ingress during ocean shipping
- Silica gel desiccants: Recommended for containers transiting through tropical routes (Asia, Southeast Asia)
- Container desiccant blankets: Essential for 20ft/40ft FCL shipments crossing the equator
- Temperature monitoring: Data loggers in containers help track conditions and verify storage compliance
3. Labeling Requirements by Market
Each destination market has specific labeling requirements. Non-compliance can result in shipment rejection at customs:
European Union (EU)
- Product name (common + botanical) in local language
- Net weight in metric units
- Country of origin ("Product of Egypt")
- Lot number and best before date
- Allergen declarations per Regulation 1169/2011
- Food business operator name and address
United States (FDA)
- Nutrition Facts panel (for retail products)
- FDA Prior Notice for all food imports
- Country of origin declaration
- FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program) compliance
GCC Countries
- Arabic and English bilingual labels
- Halal certification mark
- Production and expiry dates in Hijri + Gregorian calendars
- SFDA/ESMA conformity marking
4. Retail-Ready Packaging Options
For clients who need finished retail products, HS Herbs offers private label services:
- Stand-up pouches: 50g, 100g, 250g, 500g with resealable zipper
- Glass jars: 50g, 100g for premium herbs and spice blends
- Tea bags: Individual tea sachets for herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus)
- Custom printing: Full-color flexographic printing on pouches and labels
5. HS Herbs Packaging Services
We offer flexible packaging solutions tailored to your market. View our full product range or contact us to discuss custom packaging requirements. Email: sales@hs-herbs.com