Flexible Packaging: Shelf Life and Gas-Filled Considerations

Packaging plays a crucial role in marketing a product. The packaging material and design not only protect the product but also influence the customer’s purchasing decision. Roll stock and pouches are two popular types of flexible packaging used widely across various industries. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into roll stock and pouches and compare and contrast them to help you decide which one is the best option for your packaging needs. What is Roll Stock? Roll stock, also known as roll-fed packaging, is a type of flexible packaging material that comes in a roll form. It is commonly made of plastic materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester. Roll stock is a popular choice for packaging products such as snacks, pet food, candy or similar products. Roll stock can be customized to meet the specific needs of a product. It can be printed with high-quality graphics, which is great for branding and marketing purposes. Roll stock can also be made in different sizes, thicknesses, and colors to suit different packaging requirements. Roll stock is produced in large rolls and then cut and formed into the final shape by the packaging manufacturer or co-packer. The manufacturing process is cost-effective, making it a good choice for companies looking to save money on packaging costs. Roll stock takes up less storage space than pre-made pouches because it is produced in large rolls. This makes it easier to store and transport. What are Pouches? Pouches, also known as pre-made bags, are another popular type of flexible packaging. Unlike roll stock, pouches are pre-made and come in various sizes, shapes, and styles. They are commonly made of materials such as plastic films, laminates, and aluminum foil. Pouches can be customized with high-quality graphics and designs, making them a popular choice for branding and marketing purposes. They are used to package a wide range of products such as supplements, powders, foods, beverages and personal care items. Pouches are made by sealing the edges of pre-made bags to create a sealed container. This process creates a tight seal that prevents air and moisture from entering the package, providing better product protection than roll stock. However, because pouches are pre-made and come in standard sizes and shapes, they can be more expensive than roll stock. Differences between Roll Stock and Pouches Here are the key differences between roll stock and pouches: Manufacturing Process Roll stock is produced in large rolls and then cut and formed into the final shape by the packaging manufacturer or co-packer. Pouches, on the other hand, are pre-made and formed into the final shape during the manufacturing process. Roll stock require either vertical or horizontal 4-fill seal machine also known as a vertical or horizontal wrapper. Size and Shape Roll stock can be made in any size or shape, depending on the product’s packaging requirements. Pouches, on the other hand, come in standard sizes and shapes. Printing Roll stock offers more flexibility when it comes to printing. The entire surface of the roll stock can be printed with high-quality graphics, while pouches have limited space for printing. Cost Roll stock tends to be more cost-effective than pouches because it is produced in bulk and is customizable. Pouches, on the other hand, are pre-made in stock and come in standard sizes and shapes, custom pouches can be made for specific sizes, making them more expensive. Storage Space Roll stock takes up less storage space than pouches because it is produced in large rolls, while pouches take up more storage space because they are pre-made and cannot be stacked. Product Protection Pouches provide better product protection than roll stock because they are pre-made and have sealed edges that prevent air and moisture from entering the package. Which One Should You Choose? Both roll stock and pouches have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice ultimately depends on the specific needs of your product. Roll stock is a good choice if you need a flexible packaging material that can be customized in terms of size, shape, and printing. It is also cost-effective and takes up less storage space, making it a good choice for companies with limited storage capacity. Roll stock is ideal for products that don’t require a specific shape or size and don’t need the extra protection provided by a pre-made pouch. Pouches, on the other hand, provide better product protection and are a good choice for products that are sensitive to air and moisture. They are also a good choice for products that require a specific size or shape. Pouches are an excellent option for products that need to stand out on shelves and grab the attention of customers due to their customizable printing options. When deciding which packaging material to use, consider factors such as cost, size, shape, printing, and product protection. If you are interested in roll stock, pouches or other flexible packaging, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Roll Stock Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts

Flexible packaging is in the throes of a revolution, with several innovative materials surfacing that promise to change the landscape of the industry. Traditionally, flexible packaging has relied on materials such as plastic and paper. However, environmental considerations, as well as advancements in materials science, are ushering in a new era of flexible packaging options. Let’s delve into the cutting-edge materials that are steering the future of flexible packaging. Biodegradable and Compostable Films Consumer awareness and regulatory pressures are pushing the packaging industry towards environmentally friendly alternatives. One such innovative material is biodegradable and compostable films, made from bio-based polymers such as Polyactic Acid (PLA) and Polycaprolactone (PCL). These materials, derived from renewable sources like cornstarch, sugarcane, or potatoes, degrade naturally over time, significantly reducing their environmental footprint. The challenge lies in their production cost and durability, which scientists are tirelessly working to improve. Edible Packaging Materials The concept of edible packaging has piqued the interest of consumers and industry experts alike. It offers a zero-waste solution to packaging, where the packaging material itself can be consumed or composted. Innovations include films made from seaweed, proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides. One standout example is Notpla, a London-based start-up, which developed an edible packaging material from seaweed extract. These materials are safe for consumption and significantly lower the volume of waste generated. Nanotechnology in Packaging Nanotechnology is making substantial inroads into the packaging industry, thanks to its potential to improve material properties. Nanocomposites, made by incorporating nanoparticles into traditional polymers, can improve the barrier properties, strength, and heat resistance of packaging materials. Additionally, nano sensors embedded in the packaging material can detect food spoilage and alert consumers, adding an extra layer of safety to food packaging. However, regulations governing the use of nanomaterials in packaging are still under development, which can affect their widespread adoption. Smart Packaging Materials Smart packaging materials can interact with the product or the environment to extend the product’s shelf life, enhance safety, and improve consumer convenience. These materials include oxygen scavengers, moisture absorbers, and temperature indicators. Intelligent films that change color when exposed to microbial contamination or when the product is past its ‘use by’ date are already being used in food packaging. The field of smart packaging materials is rapidly expanding, driven by advancements in sensor technology and data analytics. Recycled and Recyclable Materials The use of recycled and recyclable materials in flexible packaging is gaining momentum. Recyclable mono-materials, which are made from a single type of polymer, are easier to recycle compared to multi-layered materials. These mono-materials can maintain the same performance characteristics as traditional packaging materials while reducing the environmental impact. Initiatives like the Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging (CEFLEX) are working towards advancing the circular economy model for flexible packaging, emphasizing the use of recycled and recyclable materials. Final Thoughts: Flexible Packaging Innovations The flexible packaging industry is poised for a significant transformation. Driven by environmental concerns, technological advancements, and consumer demand, these innovative materials are rapidly reshaping the industry. However, many of these materials are still in their developmental stages or facing regulatory hurdles. The challenge lies in finding a balance between performance, cost, sustainability, and consumer acceptance. Despite these hurdles, the future of flexible packaging looks brighter and more sustainable than ever before. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts