Packaging 101

Expansion Plans

Pyramid Packaging has made the exciting decision to move forward with the expansion plans of its current headquarters at 2901 Shermer Road, south of Willow Road.

Company President Bob Ploen says that he selected the Northbrook location in 2013 because the one-acre lot was ideal should the growth of his business require more space. After five years, the company feels it is the right time to expand its footprint.

The two-part expansion plan will more than double the size of the current building. It will expand to 13,500 square feet, to accommodate continuing business growth.

Ploen estimates the first phase of the project is expected to begin over the summer with the construction of a new 8,092 square foot building 12 feet south of the current building.

In phase two, the company plans to move into the new structure, tear down its current building, and add another 5,440 square feet.

We are proud to be apart of the Northbrook Chamber of Commerce. Click here to view our Chamber of Commerce profile.

To learn more about our exciting expansion plans and expanded offerings that the new space will provide, please email [email protected], or, fill out this form and a member of our staff will reach out to you promptly.

Protective Packaging Solutions

Innovative protective packaging solutions can enhance your company’s image with internal packaging that showcases your brand. It demonstrates a commitment to environmentally responsible packaging. However, it also minimizes the size and weight of the overall package for lower shipping costs.

Air pillows are available in Earthware recycled or biodegradable blends. These are tinted green specifically for customer awareness; or choose custom printed air pillows with your company branding.

Properly packing your products for shipping is critical because it reduces damages and returns. With proper packaging methods and materials, you can ensure your products reach their destination in perfect condition. APS manufactures a full line of AirPouch inflate-on-demand protective packaging products for a variety of uses, to which Pyramid Packaging also offers.

Our protective packing and void-fill air pillow products offer high quality alternatives to traditional peanut, foam, paper packing and bundle bubble materials. As a result, it is saving warehouse space, packing time and shipping costs.

Special packaging materials should be used for special product shipping. For instance, items like electronics and electrical components often require anti-static materials, such as our AirPouch Anti-Static film.

We offer a full line of high-quality bubble, air-pillow and tube materials for your specialized needs and our AirPouch specialists will help you determine the best products and protective packaging solutions for your operation.

About Pyramid Packaging
Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We are a supplier Autobag bags, bubble wrap and void fill packaging supplies. Contact us by filling out this form, call us at 847-272-3400 or email us at [email protected].

Case Study: Loveshaw CF-5 Case Former and LD-3SB Case Sealer

Loveshaw Case Study – CF-5 Semi-Automatic Case Former & LD-3SB Case Sealer.

An authorized Little David distributor was asked to visit a national co-packer to evaluate the benefits of a box former and a case sealer. The company was interested in increasing throughput by eliminating the existing manual process. Previously, the operators were hand erecting and bottom taping the box, inserting a partition, placing 4 pouches of product in the box and manually sealing the top of the box.

The equipment proposed needed to be mobile. It would also be moved frequently for use in multiple lines, but had to be operator-friendly for frequent case size changes. In coordination with Loveshaw, an onsite demonstration of the CF-5 with LD-3 SB extended drive case sealer with three flap folder was conducted at the facility. Therefore, a case study was created.


The Challenge

1. The manual process of erecting and bottom sealing was both slow and inefficient.
2. The weight of the product was also heavy; 18-20 lbs. per pouch with 4 pouches in a carton. The machine needed to be industrial grade.
3. The top sealing was equally slow and inefficient.


The Results

Firstly, the CF-5 secured and squared the case. Next, the operator inserted the partition, and placed the pouches into the box. Finally, the operator was only required to tuck the rear minor flap and the LD-3SB with 3 flap folder, folding the remaining flaps then top and bottom to seal the box. Following the results, the manager noted a 66% increase in throughput on the line because of the investment in Little David equipment.

To provide maximum use for the machinery in the facility, quick release brackets and castors were installed, therefore, the customer could use the LD-3SB on other production lines when not running the pouch line. As a result, the combination worked out well for the customer and they are impressed with the robustness and consistency of the Loveshaw system.

Following the case study, here’s an additional look at the performance features of the CF-5 and LD-3SB.


CF-5 Performance Features:

1.PLC driven: monitors and controls each step in the flap folding process providing precise and therefore repeatable sequence
2. Three points of safety: all three photo eyes need to be blocked at same time to activate
3. Operate from either side
4. No lubrication needed
5. Made with heavy duty steel and stainless steel
6. Case range: Length: 8″ – 26’5/ Width: 5″ – 20″/ Height: 3″-  inf. Narrow box option of 3.5″
7. Compact Footprint: Length: 44″ /  Width: 34″ /Height: 33″
8. Speed: operator dependent
9. 110 VAC, 60 Hz single phase, 2 Amp
10. Air requirements: 6.5 SCFM


LD-3SB Little David Performance Features:

1. Speed: 76 fpm
2. Case Range: Length: 3 – Inf / Width: 4 – 20 (narrow box option of 3″) / Height: 4″ -24″ (high mast option up to 34″)
3. Compact Footprint: 32″ x 33″ x 59″
4. Easy to operate
5. Single mast design for safety, quick, easy case changeover: slide and lock height and width wheel adjustment
6. Durable: Built with not only heavy gauge steel to last in the most demanding 24/7 operations, but also front and rear horizontal leg braces for added stability
7. CAC60 Case Locker Tape Cartridge with five patented features

To find out more, we have a range of case sealers and case formers available, or feel free to reach out via email at [email protected], as well as filling out a Contact Us form. You can also call us at (847)-272-3400.

Types of Flexible Packaging Films

Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of pre-opened poly bags in a wide range of film types for virtually any bag packaging application. Deciding on the best flexible packaging films for your packaging application can be a complicated process.

There are many variables to consider in order to best display and preserve your packaged product. Different poly bag materials are used for their unique characteristics, including clarity, strength, opacity, barrier properties, printability, puncture resistance, and other industry specifications.

There’s a right tool for every job and there’s a correct bag for every packaging application. Pyramid Packaging can help you select which of the following types of films & variables are required for your packaging application.

Some material types include films for mail order bags, mil spec bags, UV resistant bags, anti-static bags and much more.

Below are common types of flexible packaging films used.

Types of Flexible Packaging Films:

  1. Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDP) — offers superior strength and durability
  2. Low Density Polyethylene Films (LDPE) — the industry standard for strength and flexibility
  3. High Density Co-ex Blend Polyethylene Film — additive-free bag material with good clarity
  4. Polypropylene Film — excellent clarity and strength for retail bag packaging
  5. Polyester Laminated to Linear Low Density Polyethylene — offers excellent stiffness and gloss for maximum brand impact
  6. Anti-Fog — ensures bagged contents remain visible from condensation
  7. Barrier/Co-extruded Films — specially designed for resistance from aroma, gases, flavors and solvents
  8. Opaque Films — fully opaque, UV-resistant films protect and conceal contents military spec compliant films waterproof and greaseproof packaging that meets mil spec compliance
  9. UV Protective Films — protects bag contents from ultra-violet rays
  10. Static Dissipative Films — designed to dissipate static build-up in the bag
  11. Rust/Corrosion Inhibitor Films — corrosion-resistant bags protect contents against rust
  12. Specialty Films — engineered films for unique bag packaging applications

For more information, contact Pyramid Packaging using this form or email us at [email protected], as well as our phone number: (847)-272-3400.

Autobag DATA Count U-162 Counters

The Autobag DATA Count U-162 Counter, integrated with the Autobag 500 bagger, is engineered to fully automate the high-speed counting and packaging of bulk small products. As a result, it is a compact, flexible and a cost-effective system. It is designed with advanced counting technology from DATA Technologies. Its innovative product engineering is from Automated Packaging Systems.

Capable of counting up to 25,000 objects per minute, this hopper and vibratory feed track system uses an advanced mathematical algorithm to ensure high levels of accuracy. Utilizing the very latest technology, the Autobag DATA Count U-162 Counter is capable of detecting variable shaped products. These range from 0.5 – 25mm in size.

When used in conjunction with the Autobag 500 bagging system, a bulk supply of product is driven down the feed tracks and into a state-of-the-art vision-based system. Meanwhile, it is automatically counted to a pre-set quantity. The counted product is then funneled to a pre-opened bag, sealed and dispensed, while another bag is presented for loading.

Autobag Data COUNT-U-162 is a powerful packaging machine.

Genuine Autobag pre-opened bags-on-a-roll are system-matched for optimum performance. Significantly, the system and bags are backed by the industry’s most comprehensive engineering and field service network.


Established in 1968 & headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Pyramid Packaging is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant supplier of flexible packaging films.

Our packaging sales engineers can help you select the best film design and construction for your packaging application. Click here to contact Pyramid Packaging for more information. Or, call us at (847)-272-3400, as well as emailing us at [email protected].

Packaging Films for Every Application

Packaging films are used across countless industries to protect, preserve and present products while improving shipping efficiency and shelf appeal. At Pyramid Packaging, we supply high-quality flexible packaging films for food, pharmaceutical, industrial and consumer applications. Whether you need polyethylene, polypropylene, shrink films, barrier films or custom laminated structures, our packaging specialists help you select the right solution for your production equipment and product requirements.


How Packaging Film Is Made

Most packaging films begin as plastic resin pellets that are melted inside an extruder. The molten material is forced through a circular die to create a continuous tube, which is inflated using air in a process known as blown film extrusion. Once cooled, the film is wound into rolls that can later be printed, laminated, slit and converted into bags, pouches, shrink sleeves or stretch films.

Flexible packaging films offer numerous advantages over rigid packaging. They are lightweight, reducing shipping costs, require less storage space, provide excellent moisture resistance and are economical to manufacture. Modern films can also be printed with high-quality graphics and laminated to improve durability, sealing performance and barrier protection.


 

Types of Packaging Films

Selecting the right packaging film depends on your product, packaging equipment and performance requirements. Below are some of the most common packaging films used across industrial, food and retail applications.

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene packaging films are among the most versatile materials available. They provide excellent moisture resistance, flexibility and durability, making them ideal for poly bags, liners, stretch wrap and industrial packaging applications.

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene films offer excellent clarity, stiffness and heat resistance. They are commonly used for food packaging, retail products and applications where product visibility is important.

Barrier Films

Barrier films combine multiple material layers to protect products from oxygen, moisture, light and contaminants. These films help extend shelf life and maintain product quality for food, pharmaceutical and medical packaging. Learn more about our barrier films.

Shrink Films

Shrink films conform tightly to products after heat is applied, creating secure and attractive packaging. They are commonly used for bottled beverages, multipacks, consumer products and tamper-evident retail packaging.

Laminated Films

Laminated packaging films combine multiple materials to deliver specialized performance such as improved puncture resistance, stronger seals, enhanced print quality and superior barrier protection.

Film TypeTypical Gauge RangeTypical Uses
Polyethylene (PE)0.5–10 milBags, liners, stretch wrap
Polypropylene (PP)0.6–3 milRetail packaging, food packaging
Barrier FilmsMulti-layer constructionFood, pharmaceuticals, medical products
Shrink Films0.5–4 milBottles, bundles, retail packaging
Laminated FilmsCustom constructionHigh-performance flexible packaging

How to Choose the Right Packaging Film

Choosing the right packaging film depends on several important factors that affect product protection, production efficiency and overall packaging performance.

Product Type

Different products require different film properties. Heavy industrial products often require stronger, thicker films, while food and consumer products may prioritize clarity, flexibility or shelf-life protection.

Machine Compatibility

Packaging films should be compatible with your existing packaging equipment. Film thickness, sealing characteristics and shrink performance all influence machine speed, productivity and package consistency.

Barrier Requirements

Products that are sensitive to moisture, oxygen, odors or light often require specialized barrier or laminated films. Selecting the appropriate barrier structure helps preserve freshness and extend product shelf life.

Since 1968, Pyramid Packaging has helped manufacturers throughout North America select high-performance packaging films for demanding applications. As an ISO-certified supplier, our experienced packaging engineers work closely with customers to recommend the right film structure, thickness and performance characteristics for every application. Whether you need standard stock materials or custom packaging films, we can help develop a solution that improves product protection, packaging efficiency and overall production performance.

Ready to Find the Right Packaging Film?

Our packaging specialists can help you select the best film for your product, packaging equipment and production goals.

Request a Quote Today


Frequently Asked Questions

What are packaging films used for?

Packaging films protect, seal and present products while improving shelf life and shipping efficiency. Common types include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), barrier films and shrink films.

Which packaging film is best for food packaging?

Barrier films and laminated films are commonly used for food packaging because they provide protection against oxygen, moisture and contaminants while helping extend shelf life.

What’s the difference between polyethylene and polypropylene films?

Polyethylene films are more flexible and provide excellent moisture resistance, while polypropylene films offer greater clarity, stiffness and heat resistance, making them ideal for retail packaging.

Can packaging films be customized?

Yes. Packaging films can be customized with different gauges, laminations, barrier properties, printing options and seal characteristics to meet the specific requirements of your packaging application.

Food Metal Detectors

Food metal detectors are used for consumer protection. The consequences for a food related packaging company that is not using metal detectors can include lawsuits, recalls and hurt their brand image.

Parts of the food processing and packaging equipment like nuts, bolts or shavings can possibly fall off an accidentally be packaged with the items.

Metal particles that enter the product during the production process can also cause serious injuries. Food X-Ray machines and metal detectors, as a result, will automatically detect and reject contaminated product from the production line. This will save you plenty of time, money and energy in the long run and in particular, the end-user: Consumers.

These detectors are ideal for the following applications:

  • Baked Goods
  • Confectionery & Snack Foods
  • Convenience Food | Food-to-Go
  • Dairy and Egg Products
  • Dried Foods, Cereals & Grains
  • Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts
  • Meat, Poultry & Fish
  • Other / General Industries

Loma food x-ray detectors will provide effective protection against metal as well as non-metal contaminants.

You can reach out to Pyramid Packaging in a variety of ways. First, fill out our Contact Us form by clicking on this link. Next, you can email us at [email protected]. Finally, you can give us a call at (847)-272-3400 and a member of our customer service team will be sure to get back to you in a timely fashion.

Textile Packaging Equipment

Autobag’s Ergocon Textile Packaging Equipment system is engineered for high speed packaging of industrial laundered applications and textile services. The laundry packaging system uses an automatic feeder. It is fully integrated with the Autobag AB 255 wide bagger, to inspect and package up to 7,000 towels per hour.

The inspection and packaging operation begins by loading the bulk feed bin with clean towels or other industrial laundered items. Loading can be done while the system is operating.

Items are automatically fed from the bin to the pick conveyor for separation. Then, they are conveyed to the inspection area. After inspection, towels continue down the conveyor. Next, they pass through a counting eye. finally, they are automatically delivered to an open bag at the Autobag AB 255.

This commercial laundry equipment sets the pace of production. Speeds are adjustable to run slower for items requiring tighter inspection or faster to achieve high production rates.

The user-friendly control panel allows storage and recall of up to 14 jobs. It also can load building capabilities, show real time productivity data, onboard diagnostics, and more.

Optional features include a performance indicating light stack, laser level control system, reject count system, and an extended 71′ discharge conveyor. When used with genuine Autobag pre-opened bags, the Autobag Ergocon Textile Packaging Equipment System offers high-quality, reliability and flexibility for the commercial laundry industry.


To learn more, please contact us using this form. You can also reach out by emailing us at [email protected], or calling us at (847)-272-3400.

Self Propelled Stretch Wrapper

Highlight’s self propelled Fantom stretch wrappers give you the freedom to wrap loads anywhere in your facility without sacrificing consistency and film savings. The semi-automatic controls make wrapping varying sized loads simple and easy.

The self-propelled load tracking design means that products of any weight, length, or width can be wrapped. It also eliminates the need to move unstable loads. This powered pre-stretch system provides greatly increased film savings and performance.

Features of this stretch wrapper include an emergency stop button, which is automatically triggered when an object is in the way. Next, an auto film cut improves productivity by upwards of 30% by knowing when to cut off the film. Thirdly, the touch control manual provides intuitive control of robot settings, ranging from speed, battery indication and more. It can also hold multiple wrap “recipes”. The “Select Stretch” feature, located above the carriage, allows for the operator can change the film between 230%-270% easily. Finally, it is built well and sturdy, which will last you years after a purchase.

The on-board battery pack allows you to wrap 200 – 300 loads on a single charge.


For more information on a self propelled stretch wrapper watch the video below or contact Pyramid Packaging at 847-272-3400 or click here.

Pack Expo 2016

The Pyramid Packaging Team attended the Pack Expo show, which took place Nov. 6-9 in Chicago at McCormick Place. The show gave us an opportunity to meet with many of our suppliers since most exhibit at the show.

It also gave our packaging engineers the chance to see the latest in packaging equipment, films and supplies that may benefit our customers.

Pack Expo is the world’s largest processing and packaging event of the year. Check out our slideshow of companies that we represent.


Created with flickr slideshow.

You can contact Pyramid Packaging in a number of ways. First, you can fill out this form. Next, you can give us a call at (847)-272-3400. Thirdly, you can email us at [email protected].

Anti-Static Packaging for ESD-Sensitive Products

Anti-static packaging protects sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge (ESD) that can damage or destroy circuits during manufacturing, storage and transportation. Pyramid Packaging supplies a complete range of anti-static packaging solutions, including ESD shielding bags, moisture-barrier bags, static-dissipative materials and conductive packaging designed to safeguard valuable electronic products throughout the supply chain.

These bags are commonly made from low density polyethylene (PE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and have a pink or silver metalized color.

Anti-static shielding bags are used to store, transport and protect electronic components and printed circuitry boards. The bags will protect electronic items from damage when electrostatic discharge occurs. Static electricity occurs more often when there are low amounts of moisture in the air. Anti-static bags have a thin microscopic layer of water molecules at the film's surface which reduces the chances of a discharge from taking place. Additionally, controlling the humidity level of a room will reduce static electricity.

To create the anti-static effect, the bags are slightly conductive, which creates a Faraday Cage around bagged item which avoids any discharges from being deposited onto the item. These bags will dissipate static electricity so it cannot create electrostatic discharge (ESD) whereas a static shielding bag blocks the ESD. Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of the following types anti-static bags:


  • Reclosable/ziplock bags



  • Flat poly bags



  • Tubing



  • conductive flat bags



  • conductive bags reclosable/ziplock



  • conductive tubing



  • static shielding bags



  • cushioned static shielding bags



  • reclosable/ziplock


  • available in clear, pink, various sizes and thicknesses

Types of Anti-Static Packaging

Different electronic applications require different levels of electrostatic protection. The most common types of anti-static packaging include:

Static-Shielding Bags

Static-shielding bags feature a metalized layer that protects electronic components from external electrostatic discharge. They are commonly used for printed circuit boards, electronic assemblies and sensitive devices.

Static-Dissipative Bags

Static-dissipative bags reduce the buildup of static electricity by safely dissipating electrical charges. They are ideal for handling and transporting components that require moderate ESD protection.

Conductive Packaging

Conductive bags and materials create a Faraday cage around electronic components, providing maximum protection against electrostatic discharge during storage and shipping.

Moisture-Barrier Bags

Moisture-barrier bags combine ESD protection with resistance to moisture and oxygen, making them ideal for semiconductors, integrated circuits and other moisture-sensitive electronic devices.

When Do You Need Anti-Static Packaging?

Anti-static packaging should be used whenever electronic components are vulnerable to electrostatic discharge.

Typical applications include:

  • Printed circuit boards (PCBs)
  • Semiconductors
  • Integrated circuits
  • Computer components
  • Electronic assemblies
  • Medical electronics
  • Telecommunications equipment
  • Aerospace electronics
  • Automotive electronics

Using the correct ESD packaging helps prevent costly product failures while maintaining product reliability throughout manufacturing and distribution.


FAQ

What is anti-static packaging?

Anti-static packaging is packaging designed to prevent static electricity build-up that can damage sensitive electronic components.

What’s the difference between anti-static and static-shielding bags?

Anti-static packaging is a broad category that includes static-shielding bags, static-dissipative bags, conductive bags and moisture-barrier bags. Static-shielding bags specifically protect against external electrostatic discharge.

Who needs anti-static packaging?

Manufacturers of electronics, semiconductors, PCBs, medical devices and telecommunications equipment commonly use anti-static packaging to protect sensitive products.

Can anti-static bags be reused?

Many anti-static bags can be reused if they remain clean, undamaged and continue to meet ESD protection requirements.


About Pyramid Packaging
Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We are a supplier of stock and customized anti-static shielding bags. If needed, our experienced packaging engineers will work with you to develop a customized anti-static poly bag based on your design specifications (size, thickness, closure type, graphics). Call us at 847-272-3400, fill out our Contact Us form to learn more, or simply email us at [email protected].

Poly Bagging: Choosing the Right Poly Bagz

Choosing the right poly bag (film) for your packaging application can be a confusing process. If you’re not familiar with packaging films, you may think they are basically all the same but nothing could further from the truth. A Poly bag can come in different styles, materials, thicknesses, blends, barrier properties and available in loose pack and rolls.

What Are Poly Bags?

Poly bags are flexible packaging bags made primarily from polyethylene. They are used to protect, store and ship products such as food, clothing, hardware, chemicals and consumer goods. Poly bags are available in different sizes, thicknesses and styles, including layflat, gusseted and reclosable bags.

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Bag Types

Poly bags are also known as polyethylene bags or plastic bags. They are commonly used in a wide range of packaging applications, including food packaging, produce, dry goods, magazines, chemicals and products intended for storage or shipping.

The term “poly” commonly refers to polyethylene, the primary material used to manufacture these bags. Packaging bags and films are available in several materials, including LDPE, HDPE, PP and PET, with each offering different levels of strength, flexibility, clarity and moisture resistance depending on the application.

The most common poly bag styles include layflat bags, gusseted bags and reclosable zip-lock bags. Choosing the right material and bag style helps improve product protection, storage efficiency and packaging performance.

Choosing the right poly bag (film) for your packaging application can be a confusing process. If you're not familiar with packaging films, you may think they are basically all the same but nothing could further from the truth. A Poly bag can come in different styles, materials, thicknesses, blends, barrier properties and available in loose pack and rolls.

Types of Plastic Bags

  • Layflat poly bags
  • Gusseted bags
  • Reclosable (zip-lock) bags
  • Poly bags on a roll
  • Poly tubing
  • Anti-static bags

Poly Bagging for Automated Packaging Lines

Many manufacturers use automated poly bagging systems to improve packaging speed, consistency and labor efficiency. Poly bags on a roll are specifically designed for automatic bagging equipment, allowing products to be loaded, sealed and prepared for shipping with minimal operator involvement.

Automated poly bagging is commonly used in ecommerce fulfillment, medical device packaging, hardware, industrial components and retail applications where productivity and repeatability are critical.

If your operation requires higher throughput, Pyramid Packaging also supplies Autobag automatic bagging systems designed to work with poly bags on a roll for efficient packaging operations.

Learn more about our Autobag packaging systems.

Bag Materials

A Poly bag can come in an array of materials that including but not limited to LDPE, HDPE, PP and PET. Variables like the films clarity, oxygen and moisture barrier rates will help decide on which film type is best for your packaging application.


Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

These packaging films are inexpensive, have good clarity and often are used to package fresh produce, frozen foods, and baked goods. Artwork can be added to give the produce a customized look.


High density polyethylene (HDPE)

These packaging films are found in many of the same applications as LDPE and LLDPE. It is stiffer and more rigid than many other PE films. HDPE has good moisture barrier properties and is resistant to grease and oils. HDPE is often used inside a box to preserve its contents, such as cereal bags or cake mixes.


Polypropylene (PP)

These films are soft, clear have good moisture barriers and high oxygen transfer rates. Therefore, PP films are commonly used with bakeries and food markets. These films are similar, but less flexible than LDPE films.


Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

PET films are durable, heat resistant films with very good oxygen barrier properties. When PET films are laminated with metal foil (MET PET), it will increase the oxygen-water barrier and block UV rays. Metalized films for flexible packaging are essential when the product requires extra protection to ensure a longer shelf life. MET PET films provide protective properties for food requiring restricted visibility.


Frequently Asked Questions

What are poly bags?

Poly bags are flexible bags made from polyethylene used to protect, store and ship products.

What are the most common types of poly bags?

The most common types include layflat bags, gusseted bags and reclosable zip-lock bags. Each style is designed for different product shapes and packaging requirements.

What materials are poly bags made from?

Most poly bags are made from polyethylene materials such as LDPE, LLDPE or HDPE. Other flexible packaging applications may use polypropylene or PET films.


About Pyramid Packaging
Established in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films.

Browse our full range of poly bags — including layflat, gusseted, reclosable and custom options — to find the right bag for your application.

Pyramid Packaging can customize your plastic packaging films & barriers according to your blend, size & graphic design. Call us at 847-272-3400, fill out our Contact Us form, or [email protected].

Something Smells Good: The nose behind the Oxygen Transfer Rate

Oxygen transfer rate (OTR) allows a flexible packaging film to either reduce or allow the smell of an item to penetrate the film at a certain temperature.

Oxygen transfer rate is the amount of oxygen that penetrates a given area in one day. However the relative humidity can affect barrier properties of certain films. Plastic films with a high OTR are used to package fragrance soaps, and other products where the consumer would want smell the item before purchasing.

Oxygen transfer rate is the amount of oxygen that penetrates a given area in one day. However the relative humidity can affect barrier properties of certain films. Plastic films with a high OTR are used to package fragrance soaps, and other products where the consumer would want smell the item before purchasing.

Often, the smell of an item will help sell the product while protecting it from moisture, dust and handling. If an item has an undesirable smell like pet foods or fishing bait, a film with a low OTR would be used in order to reduce or eliminate its odor.

Some foods require a very low OTR that keeps oxygen out in order to extend its shelf life. Different films types like PE (most permeable), PP, and MET will all have different OTR rates.

If you need help in selecting the right packaging film for your product, contact Pyramid Packaging. Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services.

We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Call us at 847-272-3400, use our Contact Us form, or email us at [email protected].

Amazon FBA Packaging Supplies

Many businesses are now selling their products on Amazon. Companies are using their FBA (fulfillment by Amazon) to send it directly to the customer. Amazon FBA does have requirements on how the items need to be packed.

If they are not packed properly, it can create delays in the items getting into Amazon’s inventory. Additionally, using the correct packing material ensures your shipment moves quickly through the Amazon fulfillment center.

Amazon recommends using bubble wrap and inflatable air pillows. It does not recommend using peanut packaging, crinkle wrap or shredded paper. They also recommend that if poly bags with an opening of 5″ (measured when flat) or larger is used, are required to have a suffocation warning, either printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. The bags also need to be transparent, and must be a certain thickness.

Many businesses are now selling their products on Amazon and using their FBA (fulfillment by Amazon) to send it directly to the customer. Amazon FBA does have requirements on how the items need to be packed.

Sure, you can easily get some of your packaging supplies from a UPS Store, Home Depot or Walmart. However, if you are packaging a substantial amount, you can save money by buying in volume from a family-owned company like Pyramid Packaging.

We are supplier of on poly bags, bags on a roll, shrink wrap, stretch wrap, demand bubble wrap, air pillows and carton sealing tape. Established in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added, and ISO 9001 compliant supplier of packaging machinery, supplies, and services. Click here to contact us or call 847-272-3400.

High Barrier Film vs. Standard Barrier Films

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.

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