Factors influencing shelf life – Barrier Technology

Shelf life refers to the time period during which a product remains usable, safe, and retains its desired qualities.  Understanding the dynamics of shelf life means that manufacturers are able to make informed decisions about specific packaging needs, so as to ensure that the product reaches the consumer in optimum condition.

This is particularly important for food products but also for things like laundry powders that need to be kept 100% moisture-free. Crucial in determining the shelf life of perishable goods, are the barrier properties of the packaging materials. Getting this right is essential to the success of the product and the brand, maintaining freshness and taste and keeping the product safe for consumption or for optimum efficacy.

What are barrier properties?

Barrier properties refer to the inherent characteristics of packaging materials that control the transfer of gasses, light, moisture and microorganisms between the product and the external atmosphere.

Certain types of packaging are better equipped to help specific products maintain their freshness and usability. So, choosing the right primary and secondary packaging is key.

Packaging options

Flexible packaging provides the barrier, either as a monolayer or as a multilayered material.  Laminations and coatings are added to the packaging material based on the needs of the product.  However, once you have determined the barrier type you need, the next issue is how much of a barrier is necessary.

Too much packaging reflects on the cost and reduces margins, too little packaging results in customer dissatisfaction and potential damage to the brand.

What types of materials are used as barrier coatings

Metallised films/foil laminates

Thin layers of metal deposited on plastic films enhance gas and moisture barrier properties. These films are widely used in flexible packaging due to their efficiency in preserving product quality.

High-barrier plastics/plastic laminated films

Various polymers, such as ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), are engineered to offer superior barrier properties. These plastics are best applied for food packaging and other industries requiring extended shelf life.

Paper coated

Often used for packaging dry foods like cereals and snacks.

Continued innovation

We have designed and developed a range of flexible packaging solutions using materials that meet today’s challenges, both from a consumer and a sustainable perspective.

Mono-material Laminates – enviRM

Our single plastic mono-material laminates can incorporate recycled materials and barrier options, including high barrier for products requiring extra shelf life.

Industrial Compostables -greenfoRM

Our range of compostable Bio-based laminates which decompose under certain conditions. They are direct food contact safe and have excellent barrier properties.

Heat Sealable Papers – paperforRM

Our heat sealable papers provide an alternative to plastics and can be supplied with barrier properties which provide excellent protection against gas, moisture and grease.

We have a team of highly technical packaging experts who understand barrier technology, not only from a specific product point of view but also taking into consideration the sustainability and recyclable properties of the different barrier coatings used.

Talk to us today.  We’re happy to help.