Barrier films for packaging dried foods
Drying and dehydrating fruit is one of the oldest methods of preserving foods. The earliest record of dried products can be traced all the way back to 1700 BC, where diets consisted of grains, vegetables and fruit such as figs, dates, grapes and apples. The benefits of dried food have been known for centuries, the popularity of raisins for example, spread rapidly throughout the western world due to their long-term storability and ease of transport.
Nowadays, dried foods offer convenience to health-conscious consumers, who want to consume snacks on-the-go, at a time that suits them, without compromising on nutrient levels and taste.
There are many different requirements when it comes to packaging dried food. For example, dried fruits need to be kept moist, whereas dried nuts should retain their crunch, and sometimes, to make things more complicated, they’re packaged together!
For many brands, ensuring products reach the consumer in perfect condition is a big concern. To achieve this, food must be protected against moisture, oxygen and other gases. This will help to maintain shelf life, as well as preserve the food after it has been purchased, helping to prevent food waste.
Qualities to search for when looking to package dried food
A barrier film that protects against loss or ingress of oxygen, gas and moisture. This will keep freshness locked in, meaning consumers will have food that stays fresher for longer.
Resealable packaging that offers consumer convenience. Consumers have the flexibility to choose portion size and snack whenever and wherever they like without the risk of spilled contents – increasing product appeal for people who like to consume food-on-the-move.
Transparency and clarity when selecting packaging film are also important if you would like customers to be able to see the contents when choosing your product.
Alternatively, high quality print will also offer shelf-appeal to influence the purchasing decision. Different print techniques, colours and types of film will set your brand apart. A pop of vibrant print can make a big impact on the shelf.
Protection for different food types
- Dried nuts require a film with a high barrier to oxygen. Due to their naturally oily content, nuts can become stale very quickly when exposed to air.
- Dried fruits are drained of all water content, so it’s essential to have a high water vapour barrier to preserve the remaining moisture and maintain the texture of the fruit.
- Fruit and nut mixes – require a different level of barrier, ranging from medium to high protection, depending on the ratio of fruit to nuts.
Film types for dried foods
Most film types are suited to dried snacks such as nuts and seeds because they all have an effective moisture barrier which helps to protect the high fat content of some dried foods. However, dried fruit for example, requires a high oxygen barrier, to keep the product moist, so EVOH PE film can be an ideal choice.
When it comes to cereals, pasta and rice, compostable films can be a suitable sustainable alternative, without compromising on quality. Post-consumer recycled OPP, another environmentally conscious choice, is a versatile film that has many benefits including 30% recycled content. It acts as an effective moisture barrier, with high clarity and is cost effective due to its plastic tax exemption.
With such a wide range of mono layer and laminate films you can be sure that we will have a barrier film suitable for your needs. Our films prevent transfer of moisture, oils, aromas and gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, extending shelf-life and keeping products fresh. Get in touch today for advice on our flexible packaging solutions.
