Metalized films have emerged as a popular choice for food packaging, offering exceptional barrier properties for food products at an affordable price. Its shiny, metallic appearance protects food products from external contamination and UV rays to keep them fresh for a long time. Its flexibility allows for multiple types of packaging such as heat-sealable bags, resealable pouches, confectionery and snack bars, and more.
What exactly is metalized film? And how does it tie to flexible packaging in general? This article explores the advantages of metalized film for snacks and how it contributes to their overall success in the market.
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What is Metalized Film?
Metalized film is a plastic film coated with a thin layer of metal, usually aluminum. This coating gives the film a shiny, reflective surface and enhances its barrier properties. They are commonly made from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) and/or biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET). The metalization process involves vaporizing aluminum in a vacuum chamber and depositing it onto the plastic film, creating a composite material with unique characteristics.
Advantages of Metalized Film for Snack Packaging
Superior Barrier Properties. Metalized film can reduce the permeability of oxygen, moisture, and other gases. By preventing the ingress of oxygen and moisture, metalized film helps extend the shelf life of snacks and prevent products from spoiling and going stale.
Enhanced Visual Appeal. Aside from its eye-catching reflective surface, metalized films are excellent surfaces for high-quality printing. Manufacturers can print vibrant graphics, detailed designs, and bold colors. This allows manufacturers to strengthen their branding and enhance the marketability of their products.
Light and Heat Resistance. Food that contains oils and fats can degrade when exposed to light. The film’s reflective surface offers superior light-blocking properties and some degree of thermal insulation. This will help protect food from temperature fluctuations and photodegradation during transportation and storage.
Cost-Effectiveness. Compared to other packaging materials, metalized films are lightweight. They require less material to achieve durable barrier properties and require less shipping effort to reach the proper clients. This means producing, transporting, and distributing metalized films is more cost-effective in the long run than other barrier materials.
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Metalized films offer a range of advantages that make them an ideal choice for snack packaging. Their superior barrier properties, enhanced visual appeal, light and heat resistance, and cost-effectiveness contribute to the overall success of food products in the market. By leveraging the benefits of metalized films, food manufacturers can ensure their products stand out on the shelves while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
For more information about metalized films made with BOPP and BOPET, visit PT Argha Karya Prima Industry Tbk (https://arghakarya.com).
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