Flexible packaging for food products can offer benefits ranging from appealing presentation to cost-effectiveness and food safety. Mylar and other polyethylene films in particular boast high-barrier properties for enhanced food protection. Learn how the right type of flexible packaging protects food and prolongs shelf life.
Packaging Types By Food Type
Consumer packaged goods brands can partner with flexible packaging services to develop packaging for any type of food product. It is possible to package solid, semi-solid, gel or liquid consumables in flexible barrier films. Beyond the composition of products, some of the most significant considerations for sachet packet or pouch design include the quantity and weight of product per package and requirements for maintaining freshness and food safety through the expiration date.
A flexible material like Mylar is strong enough to stand up to the weight of almost any food product and can prevent puncturing or tearing. High-barrier PE films limit the exposure of package contents to elements such as oxygen and moisture that can undermine freshness and quality.
Benefits Of Flexible Packaging
Flexible packaging is more lightweight than most other packing materials, including glass, metal or rigid plastic containers. This benefit can shrink the carbon footprint of brands that distribute and ship food products in flexible packages. The size of each package is also usually much smaller than the same quantities of products in rigid containers, making it possible to pack higher quantities of food packaging on pallets.
A growing number of resources are available for recycling flexible packaging. Many store drop-off programs accept PE packaging, and more multi-stream recycling programs facilitate responsible disposal of these packing materials. The ability to design flexible packaging that meets any packing requirements, such as flat-bottom or side-gusseted pouches to protect fragile contents from damage during transit and storage, makes flexible packaging a practical choice for many products.
Features for Flexible Packages
Brands can choose from mono-material or multi-material flexible packaging to provide an appealing presentation and the right balance of protection and sustainability. In addition to options for glossy, matte or metalized outer finishes, barrier films made of aluminum, paper or coated materials can ensure that contents stay fresh for the duration of the shelf life.
The leading flexible packaging service also allows brands to fully customize packaging designs. Decision makers can select features that support the protective capabilities of flexible materials and promote ease of use by end consumers, such as resealable zippers. Other optional features for custom plastic bags include child-resistant zippers for age-restricted products or tear notches that make products easier for consumers of all ages to open and enjoy.
Why To Choose Flexible Packing
Flexible materials can be the most compact, lightweight and protective options for packaging food products. A packaging service can recommend the most cost-effective and efficient ways to bring new products to market or update the packaging of existing product offerings. Packaging experts can work with representatives of consumer packaged goods brands to design packages that satisfy their design preferences and safety priorities for any product.
