A closer look at the newest trends in today's packaging.

Cereal canister extends freshness, reduces shelf footprint

The bag-in-box format has dominated cereal aisles for years, but Target improves convenience in the category with Archer Farms Organic cereal. The cereal introduces an oblong canister with a reclosable spout and lid, and is available exclusively at Target and SuperTarget stores.

The spout is an easy-flow design, and the lid snaps closed. In addition, the canister provides other benefits, Target says. It ensures that cereal stays fresher longer, eliminating consumers' concerns about discarding stale cereal. From a "green packaging" perspective, the canister is constructed partially from recycled paperboard.

The canister also provides storage benefits. Measuring 10" tall and 2.5" deep, it requires less pantry space than a bag-in-box cereal.

Archer Farms Organic cereals are available in 18 flavor varieties, with a suggested retail price from $3.49 to $3.99.