A high barrier film is a type of packaging film engineered to provide extremely low oxygen and moisture transmission rates, helping extend product shelf life and maintain freshness. High barrier films are commonly used in food packaging applications where products are sensitive to oxygen exposure, moisture loss or contamination.

Compared to standard barrier films, high barrier films typically incorporate advanced materials such as EVOH, metalized polyester (MET PET) or multi-layer laminations to deliver superior protection for perishable products.

Food packaging film is essential for protecting food products, extending shelf life and maintaining freshness throughout storage and distribution. Pyramid Packaging supplies a wide range of food packaging film solutions, including high-barrier laminations, BOPP, MET PET and EVOH films designed for applications ranging from dry goods to fresh and refrigerated products. Selecting the right film depends on oxygen, moisture and aroma barrier requirements as well as packaging equipment and product characteristics.

They provide protective properties for food items requiring restrictive visibility and will also increase the product’s shelf-life, and freshness.

Oxygen transfer rate (OTR) is used to measure the amount of oxygen that passes through a film. A good rule of thumb is this: The lower the number, the better the film barrier.

Additional barrier properties include UV protection, odor prevention, moisture  and gas barriers. Deciding on the barrier film for your packaging application can be a complicated process.

There are many variables to consider in order to best preserve your packaged product.

Below are a list of the most common type of barrier films used for food packaging.

Foil (aluminum) backings

These offer the best best barrier protection with an OTR of 0. Foil is often used in candy wrappers, as well as preserving chocolate.

EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol)

These barrier films have a OTR at .6 cc EVOH barriers are often used to package items such as meat, fish & poultry related products.

MPET

When OPP/BOPP films are laminated with metal foil (MET) it will increase the film’s oxygen & water barrier & block out UV rays. Additionally, because of the film’s stiffness, it is used as a wrap for hard candies, chocolates & is resistant to heat and moisture.

KPET

This is a soft saran coated PET film with good transparency. It is used as a substrate to laminate with other films. KPET has excellent gas, moisture and vapor properties making suitable for packaging of dry goods and protecting fragrant related items.

PET (polyester)

This is very good oxygen barrier, heat resistant & strong film with good durability. PET film is an excellent laminating substrate for stand-up pouches. Therefore, when PET films are laminated with metal foil it will increase the film’s oxygen — water barrier & block out UV rays.

Metallized films for flexible packaging are essential when the product requires extra protection to ensure a longer shelf life. MET PET provides protective properties for food items requiring restricted visibility.

Nylon barrier films

These films have a high melting point and are used for cooking applications such as boiling, microwaving & baking. As a result, it has very good clarity, moisture barriers & is considered a very strong film.

Polypropylene barrier films

This material is soft, clear glossy film with good moisture barriers and high oxygen transfer rates. It is often used for plastic food bags.

LLDPE barrier films

This type of films are inexpensive and have good clarity. It is used to package fresh, produce, frozen foods & baked goods. Because of its high OTR of 2500 cc, it work well when the package requires oxygen.

Choosing a Food Packaging Film by Application

Different food products require different film structures and barrier properties. Selecting the correct food packaging film depends on how sensitive the product is to oxygen, moisture and environmental conditions.

Dry Goods

Products such as snacks, grains and powders typically use BOPP or laminated films that provide moderate moisture barriers and strong seal performance.

Frozen Foods

Frozen products require films that maintain flexibility at low temperatures while preventing moisture loss and freezer burn.

Fresh Produce

Fresh fruits and vegetables often require breathable films that allow gas exchange while protecting the product during transport.

Meat & Cheese

High-barrier films such as EVOH or MET PET are commonly used to prevent oxygen exposure and extend shelf life for perishable products.

Food-Safe & FDA-Compliant Films

Food packaging materials must meet strict regulatory and safety requirements. Pyramid Packaging offers food packaging film options that comply with FDA guidelines and industry standards for food contact materials.

Available features include:

• FDA-compliant materials
• Food-grade laminations
• High-barrier structures for sensitive products
• Seal integrity for contamination prevention
• Custom film constructions based on product requirements

Our team can help ensure your packaging meets both regulatory standards and performance expectations.

Choosing the right food packaging film requires balancing barrier performance, machinability and cost. Pyramid Packaging works with manufacturers to develop customized film solutions that improve shelf life, reduce waste and optimize packaging operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What film is best for food packaging?

It depends on the product. High-barrier films such as EVOH and MET PET are ideal for oxygen-sensitive foods, while BOPP films are commonly used for dry goods and snacks.

What is food packaging film made from?

Food packaging film is typically made from materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), BOPP, PET and multilayer laminations.

Why are barrier films used in food packaging?

Barrier films help prevent oxygen, moisture and contaminants from affecting the product, extending shelf life and maintaining quality.

What is a high barrier film?

A high barrier film is a packaging film with very low oxygen and moisture transmission rates, used to maximize product shelf life and protect sensitive products.

About Pyramid Packaging

Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We also create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Pyramid Packaging can customize your plastic packaging films & barriers according to your blend, size & graphic design. Call us at 847-272-3400 or contact us here.