The flexible packaging industry has undergone a complete transformation, from simple packaging purpose to higher-order purposes with emphasis on both environmental sustainability and performance. This transformation is an absolute demonstration of a growing global market interest in sustainability and supply chain upgradation.
What is Flexible Packaging, and Why is it Better?
Flexible packaging is made up of non-rigid packaging alternatives such as films, foils, and laminates. Rigid ones such as cans or glass jars cannot be shaped to fit the product like flexible packaging alternatives.
There are a number of benefits to flexible packaging:
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Less Material: Flexible packaging will typically require less packaging material weight and volume compared to rigid ones, with a lower carbon footprint and lower manufacturing cost.Lower
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Transportation Cost: Flexible packaging is also lighter than rigid ones, which saves on shipping and fuel costs. Some flexible packaging types can also be compressed after being emptied, further improving the cost-effectiveness by minimizing the payload weight.
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Convenience: Resealable solutions, simple open tear notches, and microwavable convenience bags bring functionality to flexible packaging.
Key Points When Scheduling the Design of Your Flexible Packages
Effective flexible packaging design demands thoughtful consideration of many aspects:
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Product Specifications: Product category (e.g., food, pharmaceuticals, liquids) establishes barrier properties needed, material suitability, and seaming methods.
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Shelf Life Requirements: Wanted shelf life controls choice of high-barrier film and protective coating.
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Distribution Paths: Packaging must withstand transportation and handling stresses and thus requires appropriate puncture resistance and seal strength.
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Consumer Attitudes: Aesthetics, convenience, and sustainability attitudes drive consumer purchase decisions.
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Compliance with Regulations: Packaging must meet relevant food safety and environmental regulations.
Notably, despite occasional focus on innovative materials, even seemingly obvious choices like the type of closure can have an enormous impact on consumer satisfaction. Consider the example of a resealable zipper on a snack pouch versus a tear-off single-use opening.
Selecting the appropriate packaging materials
Selecting the correct materials is important with flexible packaging. Several options are offered, each with varying characteristics:
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Polyethylene (PE): Inexpensive general-purpose plastic used in films, bags, and pouches. Differing densities (LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE) offer differing levels of strength and flexibility.
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Polypropylene (PP): High tensile strength, chemical resistance, and clarity. Frequently used in flow wraps and stand-up pouches.
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Polyester (PET): Also shows satisfactory tensile strength, dimensional stability, and gas barrier performance. Generally used in beverage packs and laminated films.
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Polyamide (PA or Nylon): Shows good puncture resistance and barrier property against gases and odors. Applied in vacuum packs and retort pouches.
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Aluminum Foil: Provides an absolute barrier to light, oxygen, and water. Used mostly in laminated structures for long shelf life.
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Bio-based and Compostable Materials: Expanding category, e.g., products from sustainable raw materials like corn starch or cellulose. These offer low environmental impact end-of-life management.
The drive for sustainability is driving significant change in this field, with flexible pack businesses enthusiastically researching and refining new sustainable solutions.
Ecoway Global: One-Stop Shop for All Your Food Packaging Needs
Ecoway Global is a prominent provider of end-to-end packaging solutions to cater any packaging needs. As a leading flexible packaging company in UAE. Ecoway Global doesn't simply provide the bottom line packaging; they listen carefully to what their brand requires and offer a tailored design packaging solution to best suit the product's appeal and least environmental impact. Whether you need barrier films for sensitive products or a sustainable food packaging alternative, Ecoway Global is a reliable partner in the ever-changing and ongoing world of food packaging.
Conclusion
Evolution of flexible packaging is a continuing roller coaster drive by needs for greater function and greater regard for the environment. As the world changes and becomes more consumer-conscious and technologically advanced, flexible packaging companies are at the forefront of developing new solutions to meet a new generation. The material science breakthroughs that enabled the creation of flexible packaging, i.e., bio-based polymers, are now being used to address the opportunities that arise when you buy disposable coffee cups. Compostable and recyclable products are becoming increasingly popular in both industries
FAQs
Q: What are the major advantages of flexible packaging?
A: The major advantages are reduced material usage, reduced transportation costs, extended shelf life, and greater consumer convenience.
Q: What product types are normally packaged in flexible packaging?
A: All manner of products including food, beverages, medicines, personal care and industrial products utilise flexible packaging.
Q: Is there any regulation of flexible packaging?
A: Yes, for food safety, material content, and labeling, there are regional differences in regulations. There is a need to comply with applicable standards.