If you are an industry manager, you may be responsible for choosing the right packaging films or lidding materials. Packaging films are used for food products but can be used in the pharmaceutical, automotive, hardware, and consumer goods industries.
Choosing Lidding or Packaging Films
You may know the types of assembly equipment you plan to use, and you’ll be looking for materials compatible with your company’s tray-sealing equipment. Lidding films are made from materials such as polyester, polypropylene or specialty laminations. Lidding films are available in lock-tight, resealable, or easy-peel varieties. Other options may be containers that need a high oxygen barrier or lids that will provide tamper evidence.
Packaging films are structures that safely store food products. Some common packaging materials are subtypes of plastic polymer; according to Explain That Stuff, plastics are synthetic materials made from chains of carbon atoms.
Here are some examples of subtypes of plastic polymer that may be used in packaging materials:
1. BOPA (biaxially oriented polyamide)
“Biaxially oriented” means the material is stretched in two perpendicular directions. BOPA is used for distilled products, as well as perishable foods. Its tensile strength makes it an excellent choice for products that must be tightly sealed. Companies making medical machines or electrical components may also use this material.
2. BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene polymer)
Snack food companies like to use this material because of its flexibility. BOPP has a reputation for holding bulky food items without breaking. Personal hygiene items, pharmaceuticals, pet foods, and pesticides can also be safely packaged in BOPP.
3. BOPE (biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate)
BOPET may be chosen when items need stiffer packaging films. It is similar to BOPA and BOPP, but its surface is less flexible. It is frequently seen as a lid on a yogurt container or the cover of frozen dinners, and it is popular for preserving the integrity of food flavors. It can also be used for laundry detergents, pesticides, and electronic components.
4. LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene)
LLDPE is chosen for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to puncture. Its strength makes it a good choice for extrusion coating for pond liners, carpet backing, and paperboard packaging.
5. LDPE (low-density polypropylene)
LDPE is the most common type of polymer, but it doesn’t have the strength or puncture resistance of LLDPE. However, it is popular in products like bread bags or coffee lids. It is also used for garbage bags, dry cleaning bags, and disposable drink cups.
Browse Our Website for Your Lidding and Packaging Options
If you’re new to using lidding films or packaging materials, you’ll need to be sure you buy the suitable material for the products you are sealing or packaging. RTG Packaging has provided our clients with lidding and packaging films since 1995. We are certified by the AIB (American Institute of Baking), whose rigorous standards are used to certify the safety of prepared foods.
Our packaging film manufacturers in Chalfont, PA, provide safe and legal packaging options. Browse our online store and select the film that best suits your needs. If you have any questions, our customer service staff is ready to answer them. Visit our website today for all your lidding and packaging options. Uses include pond liners, carpet backing, and paperboard packaging.
