Food flexible packaging is widely used in the packaging of various foods due to its advantages such as lightness, low cost and easy processing. However, to ensure food safety, extend the shelf life and meet consumer demands, the following matters should be noted in the design, material selection, production and storage of flexible packaging:
1. Material selection and safety
Flexible packaging materials (such as plastic films, aluminum foil, composite films, etc.) must comply with food safety standards to prevent harmful substances (such as plasticizers, heavy metals) from migrating into food. Give priority to using food-grade materials such as PE, PP, and PET, and ensure that they have good barrier properties (such as oxygen barrier and moisture barrier) to delay food oxidation and deterioration.
2. Packaging sealing property
Poor sealing can cause food to become damp, oxidized or contaminated by microorganisms. During production, the heat sealing temperature, pressure and time must be strictly controlled to ensure a firm seal without leakage. After packaging is completed, a sealing test should be conducted (such as vacuum degree test or water bath leak detection).
3. Safety of printing inks and adhesives
The ink used for printing patterns and the adhesives of composite materials must comply with food hygiene standards to avoid the residue of harmful solvents such as benzene and ketone. Give priority to water-based inks or UV-curable inks, and ensure that the printed layer is isolated from the food contact surface (if using the inner printing process).
4. Temperature resistance and applicability
Different foods have different requirements for the heat resistance of packaging (such as high-temperature sterilization and frozen storage). For instance, high-temperature retort bags need to withstand temperatures above 121℃, while frozen packaging should be resistant to cracking at low temperatures. The appropriate material structure should be selected based on the characteristics of the food.
5. Physical protection and convenience
Flexible packaging should have certain puncture and tear resistance to prevent damage during transportation. At the same time, when designing, the convenience of consumers' use should be taken into consideration, such as easy-tear openings, zipper closures, and standable bags, etc.
6. Storage and transportation conditions
Finished product packaging should avoid direct sunlight, high temperatures or humid environments to prevent material aging or performance degradation. During transportation, it is necessary to prevent squeezing and friction to avoid damage to the packaging.
7. Environmental Protection and Sustainability
With the increasing environmental protection requirements, biodegradable materials (such as PLA, PBAT) or single-material structures can be given priority for easy recycling. At the same time, reduce excessive packaging and lower the environmental burden.
8. Label and regulatory compliance
The packaging labels should clearly indicate the production date, shelf life, storage conditions, ingredient list and other information, and comply with the Food Safety Law and relevant national standards.
Conclusion
Food flexible packaging should take into account safety, functionality and environmental friendliness. From material selection to production, every link should be strictly controlled to ensure that the packaging not only protects the quality of food but also meets the requirements of consumers and regulators.
