5 Must-Have Features in a Food Packaging Plastic Roll Film

With its flexible structure, packaging film has transformed the industry in recent years and has found its way into almost all industries. There are different types of flexible packaging films that cover the needs of all businesses. Pharmaceutical and medical products, food and beverages, heavy items and machinery, consumer equipment and thousands of other goods are packaged with all kinds of films.

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Choosing the suitable film will make your items be sent with better quality, remain healthy, maintain their strength, and most importantly, save significantly on the final cost. Buying a suitable packaging film requires a complete understanding of its types; for this reason, in this article, we will examine the types of packaging film, raw materials, similarities, differences, and applications of each of them so that you can choose the best product with full knowledge. Select and purchase.

1- Polyethylene film

The most popular nylon and packaging plastics are made from this recyclable material. Polyethylene is a plastic film made from ethylene, a hydrocarbon mainly obtained from natural gas or oil. The terms “plastic sheet”, “polyethylene sheet”, or “poly-film” are often used as synonyms for polyethylene film. The term polyethylene is abbreviated as “PE”. There are different types of polyethylene film, the most popular of which are:

• Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
• High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
• Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)

PE film can be purchased in different colours or transparent. In addition, there are different thicknesses. This film is the most common plastic used today and is used for a wide range of applications, including:

• packing
• Label making
• Production of plastic products (such as plastic bags)
• Covering machinery and equipment
• Protection of surfaces in painting

Of course, the primary material of stretch film and nylon shrink is usually polyethylene, and different manufacturing methods cause distinct characteristics. Polyethylene is the first choice for making packaging films in industries.

Advantages of polyethylene film

As explained in the previous section, PE film is the most widely used product in the packaging industry. In addition to the low price, polyethylene has many advantages that make it at the top of this list.

• Excellent protection, no leakage and excellent heat sealing
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Soft and resistant structure
• Excellent flexibility
• Impact resistant
• Ability to produce in different colours, transparencies and thicknesses
• Easy processing and affordable price
• Excellent resistance to moisture

For example, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is soft, puncture-resistant, highly transparent, and heat-sealable, making it an ideal choice for product packaging, tubing, and auto parts packaging. Slightly denser LDPE models are used to produce packaging bags for sharper objects.

2- Polyolefin film (POF)

Polyolefin is a durable, widely used, FDA-approved, food-safe plastic. The main feature of this material is its strength. Polyolefin film (POF) is thin yet strong, with high puncture resistance and sealing strength. The structure of this film is such that irregularly shaped goods can be packaged without any problems using it.

POF is 100% recyclable and offers impressive transparency, making products stand out more. Manufacturing companies may add tiny holes to the film during manufacture to give it exceptional flexibility. Applications of polyolefin film are generally in the following industries, although any product with small dimensions can be well packaged with it.

• Making toys
• Chocolate and candy covers
• Packing books, food and other small things

Advantages of polyolefin film

When producing this film, no harmful fumes are emitted during processing, and it is environmentally friendly. On the other hand, it is entirely recyclable, so the production of new products from oil sources is reduced. But this product has other advantages:

• High durability and excellent chemical resistance
• lightweight
• Excellent clarity and clarity
• Good resistance to weather changes
• Good tensile properties and tear resistance
• Abrasion resistant
• It has insulation and sealing properties
• Wide operating temperature range
• variety colouring
• Low-cost

3- Polypropylene film (PP)

Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic “additive polymer” made from a combination of propylene monomers. This material has a high melting point, which makes it suitable for hot liquids. It is also perfect for specific applications that require good chemical resistance. PP is mainly used directly in the packaging industry and is one of the most widely used packaging films. Of course, this material is also used in electrical equipment production, household appliances and automotive industries.

Polypropylene has a variety of uses, such as packaging consumer products, making plastic parts for the automotive industry, and producing special devices. Of course, polypropylene film is often used as the outer layer in multi-layer packagings, such as bags with polyethylene. Yogurt containers, take-out foods, medicine bottles, etc., are other items made of PP.

The advantages of polypropylene film

PP film can be produced in different ways, and for this reason, it shows different properties, but the following advantages are valid for all its derivatives.

• Excellent heat resistance
• High melting point
• Suitable for food packaging
• Good and stable adhesion
• Excellent hardness and scratch resistance
• Proper transparency

4- Polyvinyl chloride or PVC film

As PVC is reliable and lightweight, it helps the packaging maintain the integrity of the products. Of course, compared to other films, this film has a fragile structure. Also, its manufacturing process is associated with releasing toxic fumes, which is harmful to the workforce, and its factories must have proper ventilation.

Typical applications of PVC include various applications in the construction and building industries as well as healthcare, electronics, automotive and other similar sectors. PVC is used in plumbing and siding products, blood bags, and wire and cable insulation.

Advantages of PVC film

PVC is a thin thermoplastic film available in various shapes and coatings. Depending on the requirements and constraints of the industry, it can show different strengths or flexibility. This flexible nature has led to its use in various industries.

PVC is highly resistant to fire due to its high chlorine content. When burning, it does not ignite easily or produce much heat. However, since it can release harmful chemicals when melted or burned, appropriate precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of adverse health effects if used in industries where the material is used in operations involving flame or high temperatures. 

• Lasting and durable
• Resistant to damage caused by environmental conditions
• Suitable for use in harsh weather conditions
• Non-conductive (non-conductive)
• Fire resistant

5- Low-density polyethylene film (LDPE)

It is a type of polyethylene film, but due to its importance and wide application, we examine it separately. This material changes its shape when exposed to heat and can take a new shape many times without losing its structure and strength. LDPE is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with a nearly compact molecular structure. This film has many advantages, but what makes it popular is its soft, flexible nature and high adaptability for use in making different materials.

Advantages of low-density polyethylene film

The primary material of the film, LDPE, has been used in producing other materials, such as stretch film and nylon shrink. This film is easily recyclable, thus significantly reducing our environmental concerns.

• Affordable price
• A poor conductor of electricity
• Excellent resistance to high temperature
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Good flexibility
• Impact resistant

6- Thin plastic CPP film

The word CPP is abbreviated (Cast Unoriented Polypropylene) and is a plastic derived from polypropylene. CPP film is suitable for traditional and modern packaging applications, from side-seal pouches to stand-up pouches for textile and food packaging and document protection. CPP plastic has the advantages of low moisture permeability, good heat resistance,  thermal sealing, etc. It can make moisture-proof, heat-resistant, non-toxic and odourless packaging.

7- OPP packaging film

OPP stands for oriented polypropylene and is a type of propylene film. OPP is a flexible, colourless, odourless, tasteless, non-toxic packaging material with high tensile strength, impact strength and transparency. The production method of OPP film is that the molten polypropylene polymer is first made into a thick sheet or film through a long and narrow series. Then it is placed in a unique stretching device simultaneously or step by step at a specific temperature and speed. This film is made by stretching in two vertical directions (longitudinal and transverse) after cooling or appropriate heat treatment or special processing.

8- MOPP packaging film

MOPP stands for Monoaxially Oriented Polypropylene and is a uniaxial polypropylene film. The direction of tension is the mechanical direction. Mechanical direction has high tensile strength, lightweight, transparency, non-toxic, moisture resistance and good unidirectional tear performance.

The MOPP film production method is casting. A plastic extruder first melts the prepared plastic in the casting method. It is then extruded through a T-shaped structure that forms the mould and is cast as a sheet onto the rolling surface of a smoothly rotating cooling roller. Casting products have superior performance and high production efficiency and are suitable for mass production.

9- BOPP plastic film

BOPP stands for Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene, a biaxial polypropylene film. The anti-water vapour property of BOPP film has made it one of the best packaging films. BOPP film is produced so that the dense molecular polypropylene melt first passes through the extruder. After it passes through the T-die series, it is condensed into a sheet and then in a special stretching device simultaneously in both longitudinal and transverse directions. Extends And finally, films are produced after cooling.

10- Biaxial polyethylene (BOPE)

BOPE, short for Bi-axially-oriented Polyethylene, is the ideal solution for packaging products that require a high degree of protection. Some of the best features of this film are good puncture resistance, excellent heat tolerance, durability, moisture-proof construction and high transparency. The cost of making these films is relatively low.

Today, BOPE films are innovative solutions often used for items such as shopping bags, pharmaceutical packaging, and liquids and spices. Because these films are recyclable, they help companies stay true to the environmental sustainability commitments made to consumers. In addition, despite the long list of advantages, these films are inexpensive.

11- Biaxial polyethylene terephthalate (BOPT)

Abbreviated as BOPET (Biaxially-oriented Polyethylene Terephthalate), films are usually white or transparent and were first developed in the mid-s. The raw material of the film is stretched polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It is known for its transparency, reflectivity, high tensile strength, chemical and dimensional stability, gas and odour resistance properties, and electrical insulation.

This material is widely used as a surface film in laminates. When you laminate the packaging of any product using BOPET foil, you protect the food from oxidation. Food products do not lose their authentic flavour and can last longer. One of the most common ones is coffee foil packaging and bags for ready meals.

12-  Biaxially Oriented Polyamide (BOPA)

Like BOPET, BOPA film is known for its excellent tensile strength, durability, odour barrier and puncture resistance properties. But its most important feature is high transparency. Also, this film is a good barrier against oxygen and some chemicals. BOPA is ideal for packaging frozen and cooked food, vegetables, aquatic animals and medical machines, electronic products, etc. They are also suitable for agricultural products and some medical products.

13- Laminates

Laminate film is almost too common for food packaging. Flavoured beverages, such as sauces, canned foods and powders, are often in multi-layer packaging. These films usually consist of a multi-layer structure where one of the polymer or paper layers is covered with aluminium or metal films. Laminates are an excellent barrier to prevent food from losing its flavour.

Here are the main criteria to consider and questions to ask when selecting plastic film for industrial packaging:

The type of load:

What type of product are you wrapping? Is it a dry or wet product? What’s its size and weight? Select film thickness, width, and length according to the size and weight of your products. Also, take into account how smooth they are and possible sharp corners that could tear the film.

The type of plastic:

This depends on the nature of the product to be packed. Commonly used plastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Each has different properties in terms of strength, transparency, and flexibility.

Desired function:

What will your film be used for? Packaging, protection, heat retention, sealing, etc.?

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Some films have specific properties that make them resistant to chemicals, UV, or heat. Others are more transparent. Some also have electrical conductivity properties.

Duration of use:

How long do you expect your film to last, whether in transit or in long-term storage?

Respect for the environment:

More and more plastic films are recyclable or biodegradable. Naturally, we advise you to opt for this type of product for obvious environmental reasons.

In industrial applications, several types of plastic film are used, depending on their specific properties and applications. Here are some of the types of plastic film commonly used:

Stretch film

Stretch film is a versatile material, often made from extruded polyethylene in one or more layers, depending on its intended use. It is known for its flexibility as it can stretch from 125% to 500% of its original length.

There are two main types of stretch film, depending on the extrusion technique used.

1. Cast
   • This film is suitable for standard, even heavy loads with low-profile angles.
   • It offers good adhesion, high lengthwise strength, high transparency, and silent unwinding, and is generally compatible with automatic wrapping machines.
2. Blown
   • This film is suitable for heavy, angular, and uneven loads.
   • It offers very good adhesion, high strength in length and width, limited transparency, the ability to withstand low temperatures, and enhanced durability.

Advantages:

• Strong, puncture- and tear-resistant
• It adheres without sticking to the load.

Disadvantages:

• To effectively secure a load, the stretch film must be carefully stretched, which can make the packaging process more complex.
• However, some stretch film can be pre-stretched before use to simplify the packaging process.

Applications:

• Stretch film is used to wrap and secure pallets of products in the logistics industry.
• It is also commonly used for packaging fresh produce and foodstuffs.

Plastic film is a versatile product whose properties are largely influenced by the plastic of which it is made. Here are the main plastics used in the manufacture of plastic film:

Polyethylene (PE)

It is one of the most commonly used plastics in industry. It can be produced in single-layer or coextruded versions to meet a variety of needs. It shrinks at temperatures of around 150°C.

There are two types of PE: low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). PE film is generally 40 to 50 micrometers thick, but thinner versions are available, notably LDPE, which also has non-stick and anti-slip properties.

Advantages:

• PE film is renowned for its moisture resistance.
• It is flexible.
• It is transparent.
• It is the most economical.

Applications:

• Food packaging
• Bulk packaging
• Beverage can packs
• Packaging for furniture, household appliances, etc.

The color of the plastic film is an essential aspect of the packaging. Each color has its own specific use. The color you choose will depend on the company’s needs, the type of products packed, and the environments in which these products are stored or transported.

Transparent film

This is particularly useful for identifying packaged products. In a warehousing or production environment, transparency means you can quickly see which products are contained on pallets without having to remove the film. This improves efficiency and inventory management.

Black film

This provides effective protection against light. It is therefore used to protect light-sensitive products (photosensitive materials, chemicals). In addition, black plastic film offers a degree of privacy, as it conceals the pallet’s contents.

White film

This is similar to black film in terms of light protection. It has the added advantage of effectively protecting products from UV rays. This feature is important for products that could be damaged by prolonged exposure to the sun.

Translucent blue film

This film is commonly used in food packaging. The color blue is often associated with freshness and food safety, making it a popular choice for products intended for human consumption.

Other plastic film colors can be used to help identify products in a storage environment, allowing them to be distinguished at a glance and saving time during order picking. Red, for example, is one of these colors.

Cost can vary considerably depending on film type, thickness, and material. Here are some price estimates for the three main types of film:

Stretch film

Stretch film prices can range from 3 euros to over 100 euros per roll.

For film that is applied manually, prices range from 3 euros to over 50 euros, depending on the size of the roll. Less expensive film is generally suitable for light loads, while more expensive film is suitable for heavier loads or specific uses.
If you wish to apply your film with a wrapping machine, prices range from 30 euros to over 90 euros per roll.

Shrink film

Shrink film is available at prices ranging from 20 euros to over 400 euros per roll.
The price difference depends mainly on the width of the roll (prices increase with width) and the thickness of the film.

Examples:

• Very fine POF (10-15 microns) are more expensive, from 160 euros to 300 euros.
• PE film (40-50 microns) ranges in price from 60 euros to over 120 euros.
• PVC film (20-30 microns) ranges from 50 euros to over 100 euros.

Bubble wrap

Bubble wrap ranges in price from 3 euros to 100 euros for a roll approximately 1 meter long.

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• Standard bubble wrap costs between 3 euros and 20 euros.
• Antistatic bubble wrap costs between 5 euros and 30 euros.
• Anti-corrosion bubble wrap is available from between 10 euros to 50 euros.
• Isothermal bubble wrap ranges in price from 20 euros to 80 euros.