Contamination at the packaging manufacturing stage is often overlooked, because when it comes to food safety, we generally place the emphasis on the preparation of the food itself. However, food packaging is a critical element in the overall manufacturing process. Packaging, and especially the food packaging machines used in the manufacturing process, play a vital role in making sure that the final product is suitable for consumption.
There are a number of different kinds of food packaging containers. Each has a unique design to effectively protect the product. In this article, we will be talking about lidding film, its distinct traits and applications.
What is Lidding Film?
Lidding is typically used as a closure on plastic bowls, cups, or trays that hold products like yogurt, soup, meats, cheese, and many other food products. Lidding is often a laminated construction, made up of foil, paper, polyester, PET, or all kinds of other metalized and non-metalized materials that make up the film.
The film is specially engineered to peel without shredding. It retains a strong adhesion and tight seal for an extended shelf life.
Typical Attributes of Lidding Film
- Peelable
- Microwave-safe
- Anti-fog
- Freezer-safe
- Self-venting
- Grease and oil resistant
- Printable
- High barrier
Three of these attributes are especially important. When it comes to lidding, you want your package to be peelable, temperature resistant, and anti-fog. Here’s why:
- Peelable: Food manufacturers want to offer their customers convenience; essentially, they want their products to be easy to use. Packaging companies know how to create lidding film with just the right peel strength to make the product easy to open while still keeping the product secure and protected in a durable package.
- Temperature Resistant: These packages often hold foods like frozen, pre-cooked meals. These products must be kept frozen before consumption because cold temperatures keep harmful bacteria from growing and multiplying. To keep the food safe, refrigerators should be set no higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit and freezers set at zero degrees Fahrenheit. In order to make the meals edible, most consumers heat the food up in the microwave. Therefore, the packaging needs to stay secure in a wide range of temperatures.
- Anti-Fog: Consumers want to be able to see what they’re about to eat. Food manufacturers do not want the transparent parts of the lidding film to become foggy when the contents are moist (i.e. when they are being microwaved).
Packaging is important to selling a food product and keeping that product safe for consumption. When selecting a type of packaging for your product, keep lidding film in mind for all of its beneficial attributes.
