Functions of Flexible Packaging

Flexible packaging[packaging?:DCP-H series packaging sample cutter plotter] consists of multi-layer laminated sheets of plastics (PVC[PVC?:PVC sample cutting machine], LDPE, HDPE, BOPP, BOPET), paper[paper?:paper sample maker cutting machine], cloth, or metal foils that are used separately or in combination for various packaging applications. Flexible packaging is laminates of plastics that have a unique set of properties that ensure toughness, moisture resistance, aroma retention, gloss, grease resistance, heat sealability, printability, low odour and taste. These find use in packaging food, tea, coffee, spices, chewing tobacco, bakery, confectionary, oils, and in certain other non-food applications such as household detergents, health and personal care, soaps, and shampoos.

Generally, flexible Packaging has main functions as follows:

• Protection: Flexible Packaging gives total consumer protection by keeping the product clean and protecting it from pilferage and adulteration
• Barrier:It provides good barrier properties against moisture and gases and protects food from damage and wastage
• Convenience:It provides convenience of handling and disposal after use
• Cost Saving in Material:Flexible Packaging is light — a one kilogram oil pack weighs less than 10 grams compared to at least a 40 gram HDPE jar or 32-35 gram of PET, thereby giving tremendous saving in raw material cost.
• Cost Saving in Storage and Transport: It fits closely to the shape of the contents and saves cost of storage and transport.
• Savings in Raw Material Consumption:Tremendous saving in raw material consumption, serving the national cause by extension of usage at least times four times.
• More Per Pack:It provides much more product per a given amount of package. Good examples include coffee, nuts and snacks that come in foil brick packs and pouches rather than in cans or jars; juice sold in pouches rather than in rigid containers, and household cleaner refills that come in thin pouches rather than in glass bottles.
• Smaller Units Possible:Thus the option to buy only the required quantity at a time.
• Conservation of Energy:Considerable conservation of energy for conversion. For a steel coffee can to be efficient as a foil brick pack, the can would have to be recycled at a rate of 85 per cent. However, steel cans are currently being recycled at a rate of about 45 per cent.
• Important in Lifestyles: Convenience foods, individually packed small servings, microwaveable meals, “easy opening” packaging, secure packaging for pharmaceuticals and hazardous substances, are all examples of packaging playing a role in assisting and promoting our lifestyles.
• Builds Brands:Helps product manufactures enhance brand images, increase sales and realize new market opportunities.