Shrink packaging and vacuum sealing are often considered quite similar. These two packaging methods can be indistinguishable by appearance, as they both use transparent materials and can be sealed using heat. However, keen observers will notice distinct differences between them, particularly in terms of thickness.

 

What is shrink packaging?

Shrink packaging is a method that involves heating plastic film to shrink tightly around the surface of a product, providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance and protection against moisture and dust.

 

What is vacuum sealing?

Vacuum sealing is a process of placing a product in a sealed bag and extracting the air from it to create a vacuum, thereby preserving the freshness and quality of food.

 

What are their differences?

 

Material thickness: Shrink packaging typically uses thin heat shrink film, while sealed packaging may involve thicker plastic bags or containers. Shrink packaging requires thin film that can shrink during the heating process, while sealed packaging requires sufficient thickness to provide sealing performance. Vacuum-sealed packaging is approximately four times thicker than shrink packaging.

 

Packaging equipment: Shrink packaging often requires specialized heat-shrink equipment that can provide high temperatures for shrinking. Vacuum sealing can be achieved using simpler equipment such as heat sealers or manual sealers.

 

Oxygen: Shrink packaging with heat-shrink film forms a sealed barrier that prevents oxygen from entering, protecting food or other products from external damage. Vacuum sealing removes air through equipment, thus extending the shelf life of food.

 

Why are they similar?

 

Transparency: Shrink packaging film and vacuum-sealed packaging are both transparent thin films that allow clear visibility of the contents. They have a similar appearance.

 

Heat sealing: Both types of packaging can be sealed using heat, achieving a sealed effect.

 

Appearance: They are both in roll form and have identical appearances.

 

Summary

While shrink packaging and vacuum sealing share many similarities, shrink packaging primarily focuses on product protection by preventing the entry of air and contaminants or protecting against external damage. Vacuum sealing removes air to extend the shelf life of food, making it suitable for protecting products sensitive to air exposure.