Powders, gummies and capsules can all ship in either a rigid tub or a flexible stand-up pouch. Both are good choices for the right product. Here is how to decide.
Shelf presence
Tubs stand tall and look substantial, which suits premium powders and brands that sell in retail. Pouches offer a large flat print area, which suits bold graphics and works well on a shelf or in a photo.
How customers use it
- Tubs are easy to open, scoop from and reclose, which suits daily-use powders with a scoop.
- Pouches reseal with a zipper, but reaching the last servings can be harder. They suit gummies, snacks and products poured rather than scooped.
Shipping and storage
Empty pouches ship flat and take far less space than empty tubs, which helps with inbound freight and storage. Filled tubs protect the product better from crushing in transit, which matters for e-commerce.
Protection and shelf life
Both formats can protect against moisture and oxygen. Pouches rely on the film structure, and tubs on the container and an induction seal under the lid. Match the barrier to your formula, especially for hygroscopic powders.
Sustainability
HDPE tubs are made from a widely recycled plastic. Pouches use less material overall, but multi-layer films are harder to recycle. Your customers’ priorities and your local recycling options should guide the choice.
Gusset styles for pouches
- Stand-up pouches have a bottom gusset so they stand on a shelf.
- Flat-bottom bags stand like a box and offer more panels to print on.
- Flat pouches suit samples and single servings.
Or both
Many brands use a tub for the main product and a pouch for refills or samples. If you are deciding between sizes, read how to choose a supplement tub size, or send a brief and we will help you compare.
