Mylar bags are nowadays famous for their unique featured packaging. These bags are made of film, made of polyester which is sandwiched between the layers of aluminum foil. This creates a flexible and very lightweight packaging solution. There is a lot of misconception going around regarding mylar bags. Some have this idea that mylar bag is a product but it’s a wrong misconception. Let's start with the introduction of the mylar bags.
Custom mylar bags 101: A short introduction
Mylar is a registered trademark of the company known as Dupont Company. This term was coined for a special type of polyester film.
According to a study of an American packaging institute, mylar bags are very effective for the customer's approach. The reason is its metallic finish which gives a shiny look ultimately capturing attention to the shelves.
These bags provide insulation to make it super safe for your food and beverages. Similar to how "Xerox" is used for any copying machine, "mylar bag" has become a common term for a specific type of plastic packaging used for food storage
1. Not all mylar bags can be used for cooking
With the research, I came to know that a lot of consumers heat their food in the oven while still in the packaging. so It is important to confirm whether the material specification of your packaging contains RCPP or LDPE. The reason behind it is whenever LDPE is heated it will release a very harsh and strong smell that may harm your food items.
Therefore we must use an RCPP material for the mylar bag to be used in the cooking environment. It is A friendly reminder for the consumers in order to make sure that they understand the purpose of your bags.
For choosing a perfect customized mylar bag you must adhere to its thickness for greater protection.
2. Mylar Bag Thickness
These bags come in varying thicknesses, measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). The most protective thickness is 4.5-4.6 mil. This thickness offers a well-balanced combination of affordability and protection. It's suitable for storing most dry goods like rice, beans, pasta, and dehydrated foods for extended periods.
Choose the Right Thickness for your product
Follow a simple and general rule to purchase the thickest mylar bag that suits your needs and budget. Thicker bags protect your food temperatures and also protect against light exposure, and moisture fluctuations that can degrade quality. Remember, while thicker bags offer superior protection, they may also be slightly more challenging to work with due to their stiffness.
3. Aluminum Foil vs. Aluminum Plating
The effectiveness of a mylar bag as a barrier against light, oxygen, and moisture depends on two key factors: its thickness and the type of aluminum used in its construction. Here's a breakdown of the two most common types of aluminum and their properties:
Aluminum Foil
The superior barrier protector.
Pros
- These are thicker and heavier, offering exceptional light and oxygen protection.
- These are Opaque and completely block light penetration, preventing light degradation of your food.
- These are more durable and puncture-resistant compared to aluminum plating.
Cons
- More expensive than aluminum plating.
Aluminum Plating
A budget-friendly alternative.
Pros
- These types of bags are more lightweight and adaptable, allowing for better handling and bending.
- Generally less expensive than aluminum foil.
Cons
- These bags are of thinner construction resulting in less effective light and oxygen barrier properties compared to foil.
- May allow some light transmission, potentially affecting light-sensitive foods over time.
4. The Power of Nylon
If you are planning to remove oxygen then go for the nylon incorporated into the structure of the bags. Here's why nylon is a valuable addition
- Nylon significantly increases the bag's tear and puncture resistance, making it ideal for storing sharp-edged foods like pasta or dehydrated vegetables.
- The added elasticity of nylon allows the bag to conform better to the contents, ensuring a tight seal during vacuum sealing.
5. Let's clarify BPA-Free and Food-Grade Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are typically constructed from multiple laminated layers. To ensure the safe storage of food, the innermost layer that comes into direct contact with your edibles should be made from either LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) or RCPP (Cast Polypropylene). Always Verify with the manufacturer that they utilize 100% virgin raw materials
Final thoughts
To conclude, Some mylar bags can't handle the heat, so if you're thinking about using them for cooking, make sure they're made for it. Just like a winter coat, mylar bags come in different thicknesses. Thicker bags protect your stuff for longer, but they might be a bit stiff. Make sure your mylar bag is safe for food! Look for one that's BPA-free and labeled "food-grade." you can pick the perfect one by learning this much about mylar bags.
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