Grow National: Ripe & Ready - Food Packaging: Functions, Properties, Sustainability and Circularity

Unlock the essential knowledge and cutting-edge technology behind effective and sustainable food packaging in this immersive 6-hour workshop. 

Designed for food professionals, entrepreneurs, and new product developers, this workshop explores the vital role that packaging plays - from preserving quality and extending shelf life to reducing environmental impact. Dive deep into packaging properties, learn the science behind Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), and understand how to make smarter packaging decisions that align with circular economy principles. 

Whether you're developing new products or optimising existing ones, this workshop will equip you with the tools to make packaging a strategic asset.

At the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

• Identify and explain the core functions and properties of food packaging

• Understand the principles and applications of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

• Evaluate packaging materials and formats for their role in food quality and shelf life

• Apply key considerations for sustainable packaging and circular design

Make informed decisions that balance legislative requirements, functionality, sustainability, and consumer needs

How You Will Learn
You'll complete a 6-hour in-person workshop.

• Real-world case studies and hands-on examples

• Group discussions to explore challenges and opportunities in packaging

• Visual demonstrations of packaging technologies

Learning exercises to reinforce key concepts

About your presenter

Mashhuda Carrigan is a HACCP-certified food technologist with nine years of experience in food safety, quality and compliance. She has worked in both primary processing and value-added streams of eggs, with extensive experience in high-risk, cook-chill, ready-to-eat products.  

She has an in-depth understanding of regulatory requirements, GMP, and continuous improvement frameworks. Mashhuda is known for driving robust food safety culture across cross-functional teams and has successfully delivered multiple audit-ready system implementations. Her proactive approach to risk assessment and process optimisation has consistently improved product integrity and operational efficiency. 

Her industry experience is complemented by a master’s degree in food science and technology from The University of Queensland. She has also completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which informs her learning design, delivery and assessment principles. 

As an Educator at UQ Skills, Mashhuda creates tailored training programs in the Applied Sciences department, focusing on bridging knowledge gaps for food industry professionals. She is passionate about lifelong learning and creating inclusive, meaningful learning experiences.

This workshop will be presented in collaboration with FaBA, Australia’s Food and Beverage Accelerator.

What to bring
Notebook, pen, laptop/mobile device.

Ticket includes catering of tea/coffee, morning tea and light lunch.

Welcome to our Food & Agribusiness Network event! We're delighted to capture and share the moments that reflect the spirit of our community. Your presence may feature on our digital platforms as we celebrate this shared experience. If you'd prefer not to be photographed or filmed, please let a FAN team member know. Our goal is to ensure a positive experience for all!