Resealable packaging started out in the baby wipes subsegment, and have since expanded into the food packaging industry.

Consumers want products that make their lives more convenient; and in recent years, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies have uncovered new ways to cater to these needs through innovative packaging options. 

 

Resealable packages have become an increasingly popular option because they improve efficiency without compromising quality. In fact, this option has become so popular that TLMI has forecasted the industry to grow by more than 78 percent in the next three years.  

 

Beyond convenience, resealable packaging reduces waste, preserves freshness and allows for easy access and easy transport. CPGs in the food industry are catching on to the benefits of resealable packaging, but some still grapple with seeing the benefits and using the materials required to effectively offer their product in a resealable package. 

 

Resealable packages were first used for baby wipes, as parents needed them on the go. Resealable packaging has since expanded to a number of CPGs, and has made the biggest impact in the food industry. 

 

The major benefits to the food industry are the ability to allow for food portion control, extended freshness, transportability and the ability to prolong the expiration date. Food packagers are now able to offer consumers a solution to consume their favorite snack when they want it without worrying about how they will preserve it for later. This eliminates the need for containers or plastic bags for leftovers. 

 

Before embarking on a packaging overhaul, CPGs need to understand what materials are best for specific products. Effective resealable packing can only be accomplished by using materials that are strong enough to stay closed without bonding permanently. Most polypropylenes offer excellent tear resistance and durability for open and closure of flexible packaging substrates. In addition, polypropylene is a material that is often used for resealable packaging. 

 

Reseal applications are very film- and adhesive-intensive, and require specialty adhesives based on the type of container. When using resealable packaging for foods, it is important to consider what will be sealed in order to choose the materials that will preserve freshness longest.

 

For example, when wrapping cheeses and meats, it is critical that the food not breathe. Therefore, CPGs should opt for a material with a tight seal and a high barrier film. The high barrier film is critical for preventing moisture, vapor and oxygen transition back and forth when sealing cheese and meats. 

 

On the other hand, fruits and vegetables need to breath and should be wrapped in films with higher degrees of breathability and vapor transition. There are specialty films for either moisture vapor barrier or breathable applications depending on how the application will be used. Evaluating the application to determine the best film is critical in properly creating a resealable package. 

 

Looking at performance attributes is also essential when determining the types of films and adhesives used for a particular application. Films and adhesives should offer clean removability so there is no residue remaining on the inside of the package that can transfer to the application. In addition, CPGs should use a laminate that offers excellent tear resistance and durability for opening and re-closure of flexible packaging substrates. The release liner should provide excellent surface smoothness for good adhesive wet out and should serve as an excellent die cutting base for flexible substrates. 

 

Taking the time to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each material will enable CPGs to produce a resealable package for a specific application. 

Resealable packaging has come a long way since being used strictly for baby wipes and have recently made a big splash in the food industry, but expect the trend to continue to make further inroads in industries, including: household cleaning products, personal care products and car care products. 

 

 

 

Flexcon 

www.flexcon.com