Back to Basics: Understanding flexible packaging
Packaging has been around for centuries. From the earliest examples of packaging such as leaves, tree bark and logs, to the latest technology we have today, packaging has evolved drastically to meet the growing needs of consumers. From 2023 to 2028, the global packaging market is set to rise by $268.37 billion. Factors that have driven this growth include expansion of the e-commerce industry, advancements and innovations in packaging technology and new opportunities in emerging markets and countries.
This blog is all about flexible packaging, how it differs from rigid packaging, important properties of flexible film solutions, the best uses of flexible packaging technology and applications for the food sector.
What is flexible packaging?
Any packaging that is easy to mould, shape, stretch and fold is classed as flexible packaging. This could be created using flexible packaging materials including plastic, paper, aluminium foils and other materials. There are various types of flexible packaging, depending on how the contents and products need to be packaged. Some common examples of flexible packaging are lidding films that form a protective layer attached to cardboard, aluminium and plastic containers, and printed films that can be converted into bags, pouches and resealable packaging.
Rigid packaging vs flexible packaging
Simply put, rigid packaging keeps its shape and is unable to bend or flex easily. Examples of rigid packaging include bottles, boxes, cans and jars – made of cardboard, metal, glass or plastic. Rigid packaging is a traditional form of packaging that continues to be important, but there are many reasons why flexible packaging can be better suited to a whole range of packaging needs.
- Flexible packaging is usually lightweight, portable, and easier to handle than rigid packaging.
- As rigid packaging is often made of bulky materials, it takes up a lot of space in storage, on shelves, and in cabinets.
- Raw materials are used in smaller quantities for flexible packaging.
- The cost of producing flexible packaging is generally lower than that of rigid packaging.
- Flexible packaging offers more options for printing and customising.
- There are a number of environmental benefits associated with flexible packaging. In addition to reducing overall carbon footprint, it produces fewer emissions during transportation since more products can be packed in the same space and, as a result of the technical properties and combination of the different materials used, it contributes less to product spoilage or waste.
Innovations in sustainability are gaining momentum with the development of new materials. Terinex Flexible’s packaging films are OPRL-certified for recyclability, for instance. Our OPP, CPP and PE films, including metalised and matt films, fall into this category.
What makes flexible packaging unique?
The properties of flexible packaging have helped increase its popularity. Whether it is film, foil-based or paper products, flexible packaging has common properties such as versatility, the ability to offer protection to the contents inside and convenience to the customer.
Paper can be used to produce bags, pouches or flow wraps. It can be laminated to other flexible packaging materials, making it a great option for fresh food, bakery, meat, frozen food applications.
Flexible packaging films can be shaped into bags or pouches. They have barrier properties that help maintain moisture and oxygen content, they can be full colour printed opaque or transparent, can be resealed and tolerate high or low temperatures. They can also be laminated to other flexible packaging materials or used to add value to flexible packaging.
Flexible Packaging Films –
Film plays an integral role in the overall functionality of flexible packaging. As mentioned above, films used in packaging provide a barrier against oxygen, moisture, and contaminants, to maintain the quality and freshness of the goods contained within. Using different kinds of films, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyester (PET), and others, manufacturers can tailor packaging to satisfy the specific requirements of a given product by utilising the right film type.
There are three main types of films: PP (OPP and CPP) films, PET films, and PE films.
- OPP films are recyclable are clear and have good sealability. Different options include metallised, matt and high barrier options to suit your application.
- CPP films are ideal for extreme temperatures and can withstand punctures. For a more aesthetic appeal, they can also be metallised.
- PET films can be perforated, weld sealed, or peelable depending on the contents, and are available in a choice of clear, white, matt, or metallised options. They can also be used for ovenable applications.
- PE film has excellent moisture barrier properties, making it common in food and beverage packaging. In addition to being flexible, lightweight, and often used in multilayer structures, it is also durable and strong.
Flexible packaging in the food sector
Packaging for food goes through an extensive research and development process. It is a key determining factor in the overall success of a new product in terms of both product quality and sales through on-shelf visibility and appeal. Innovation in packaging for the food industry has focused on improving food safety and maintaining taste, freshness and integrity of the contents, to deliver exceptional quality at an affordable price. Flexible packaging plays a crucial role in the food industry.
- High quality printing – Film packaging for food such as printed films support bold and vibrant designs and come in a variety of finishes. This helps the product stand out on the shelf and increases brand awareness and recall.
- Premium packaging – While maintaining affordability, flexible packaging offers a premium look and feel, which enhances the customer experience.
- Freshness and protection – Barrier films are used to prevent permeability of gasses (oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen) and moisture. These films help maintain freshness of the food by preventing it from becoming stale, protecting products from harmful microorganisms and reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Packaging films with barrier properties also prevent transmission of odours. Fish, cheese and coffee are great examples of foods that benefit from barrier films.
- Improved shelf-life – Barrier films increase shelf-life as they maintain a balance of gasses and moisture. Films resistant to damage from impacts and punctures, and changes in pressure or temperature, help keep products fresh and safe on the shelf for longer. Biscuits and cakes are great examples of this.
- Temperature – Flexible film solutions can be used for ambient, chilled, frozen, fresh or heated food. Microwaveable and ovenable containers that are used for readymade meals or vegetables often use lidding films with hot needle perforation to vent steam. Pouches can also be filled with hot or cold liquids during manufacture which improves efficiency and productivity for brand owners and food companies.
- Convenience – Stand-up pouches and bags offer a convenient storage solution and. resealable or easy open packaging provides convenience for customers accessing food, managing portion control and keeping food, that would otherwise go stale or spoil, fresher for longer. Ultimately, resulting in less food waste, fewer trips to the shops and lower costs.
Flexible packaging provides technical solutions to everyday problems. The food sector is one of the largest industries that benefits from its advancements. In the last 20 years, Terinex Flexibles has supplied high quality printed packaging films to an enviable list of food manufacturers, brand owners, retailers and packaging converters, providing the perfect flexible packaging solution for their product or process. With a strong foundation of packaging innovation and long-standing experience with customers, Terinex Flexibles continues to rise to the challenge of designing, printing and finishing unique flexible packaging for industry leaders.
Get in touch with us to explore flexible packaging solutions that elevate your products.
