Why Packaging Materials Matter More Than You Think

Food packaging does a lot more than just “hold” your product—it protects, preserves, presents, and even promotes it. Whether you're packaging snacks, sauces, or frozen meals, choosing the right material makes all the difference for shelf life, product safety, branding, and sustainability.

Plastic, paper, metal, glass, and biodegradable films are the top five food packaging materials. Each has its strengths depending on your product, shelf-life requirements, and environmental goals.

1. Plastic Packaging

Plastic is still the most widely used material in food packaging—and for good reason.

• Common Types: PET, PE, PP, PVC, HDPE, LDPE
• Why it's popular: It's lightweight, flexible, cost-efficient, and seals well
• Great for: Snacks, frozen food, condiments, ready-to-eat meals
• Machine Compatibility: Works perfectly with our sachet packing, pillow packing, and stand-up pouch machines

However: Not all plastics are easily recyclable, and customers are demanding more sustainable options. That’s where mono-material films and thinner laminates come in.

2. Paper & Paperboard Packaging

Paper and paperboard are making a comeback—thanks to their eco-friendly image and great printability.

• Why it's loved: Renewable, recyclable, consumer-friendly look
• Great for: Cereal boxes, fast food wraps, bakery trays, tea bags
• Machine Compatibility: Can be used with sachet and pouch machines, especially when laminated with a heat-sealable layer

Tip: Paper doesn’t offer strong moisture or oxygen barriers on its own. That’s why most paper-based packaging used in our machines includes a protective inner layer.

3. Metal Packaging (Aluminum & Tinplate)

If shelf life is your top priority, metal is your go-to.

• Why it works: Provides an airtight seal, blocks light and oxygen, extremely durable
• Great for: Canned goods, beverages, sauces, pet food
• Machine Compatibility: Compatible with retort pouch systems, liquid fillers, and tin sealing lines

Bonus: Aluminum is 100% recyclable and doesn’t degrade after reuse—good for sustainability points!

4. Glass Packaging

Glass offers a premium look and feel. It’s inert (doesn’t react with food) and provides an airtight, tamper-evident seal.

• Why it’s ideal: Long-lasting, preserves flavor, 100% recyclable
• Great for: Sauces, baby food, jams, high-end beverages
• Machine Compatibility: Best with glass ampoule filling, bottle capping, and sealing equipment

Heads-up: Glass is heavy and fragile, which affects shipping and storage—but it’s unmatched in luxury branding.

5. Biodegradable & Compostable Materials

Going green? Biodegradable packaging is your eco hero.

• Common Types: PLA (corn starch), cellulose, plant-based films
• Why it’s trending: Compostable, renewable, matches consumer demand for eco-packaging
• Great for: Organic snacks, single-use packs, sustainable brands
• Machine Compatibility: Compatible with our heat-adjustable sealing machines (ask us for custom settings)

Note: These materials can be sensitive to heat, humidity, and sealing pressure—your machine must be fine-tuned for them.

6. How to Choose the Right Material for Your Product

✔️ Based on Food Type

Product Type Best Material Options

Dry goods Paper, laminated plastic

Liquids & condiments PET, HDPE, glass

Fatty or oily foods Metal cans, aluminum pouches

Organic snacks PLA, biodegradable films

✔️ Based on Shelf Life

Shelf Life Recommended Materials

Short (1–2 weeks) Paper, biodegradable films

Medium (1–6 months) Plastic (PE, PP), laminates

Long (6–24 months) Metal, glass, high-barrier films

✔️ Based on Sustainability Goals

Goal Packaging Solution

Recyclable Glass, aluminum, PET

Compostable PLA, cellulose

Lightweight/reduced waste Mono-material films, thin laminates

7. Comparison Table

8. Industry Trends to Watch

• Eco shift: More brands are demanding biodegradable or recyclable packaging
• Mono-material films: Easier to recycle, gaining popularity in Europe & North America
• Machine adaptability: Packaging lines must now handle a variety of materials and sealing conditions
• Innovative coatings: Paper and bio-films are getting stronger and more moisture-resistant

LTPM CHINA is always ahead of the curve, offering machines that can be customized for tomorrow’s packaging needs.

9. Common Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use biodegradable films on my existing machines?

A: Yes, but sealing time, temperature, and pressure may need adjustments. We can help configure that.

Q2: What’s the best packaging material for high-fat foods like nuts or oils?

A: Metal or high-barrier plastics work best—they prevent oxidation and spoilage.

Q3: Which materials work best with high-speed packing?

A: PET and multi-layer plastic films—they seal fast and withstand mechanical stress.

Q4: Is compostable the same as recyclable?

A: No—compostable breaks down naturally, recyclable materials go through processing to be reused.

Q5: Can your machines be customized for different packaging materials?

A: Absolutely! We offer turnkey solutions tailored to your material and product type.

10. Summary

Whether you're packing granola bars or gourmet sauces, the material you choose affects performance, sustainability, and cost. Understanding the pros and cons of each type—and how it interacts with your packaging machinery—is key to success.

At LTPM CHINA, we build flexible, customizable packing machines that work with all major packaging materials. Whether you need to switch to eco-friendly films or improve your sealing efficiency, we've got your back.

Ready to match your product with the right material and packaging machine?

Get in touch with our technical team today for expert advice and a custom solution tailored to your factory.