Most people prefer their food and beverages to come in glass containers, according to an extensive survey of 12 European countries.

The survey, involving more than 6000 respondents, found that 74% preferred glass because it “preserves taste and protects against contamination”.

More than 80% of those surveyed said they were active glass recyclers, said the Federation of European Glass (FEVE).

Forty-five per cent said they would prefer glass for juice packaging and 40% would prefer it for milk.

While FEVE admits the survey was conducted by a seemingly biased industry toward glass packaging, it is believed to be one of the most comprehensive studies conducted on European packaging. In the US, a survey of wineries found similar results, that glass packaging is preferred because of its ability to maintain flavor.

However, two environmental issues weighing against the usage of glass packaging are weight and recycling value:

• Glass bottles weigh more than metal or plastic, meaning they cost more to ship and have a higher transportation carbon footprint.
• Communities are not able to make as much money collecting glass as other forms of packaging, which means numerous programs do not recycle glass.

Nevertheless, FEVE is confident that the new findings will shift consumer demand for glass. According to FEVE President Dominique Tombeur, “Consumer awareness of environmental and health issues point to us being able to regain a share of the marketplace.”