In the packaging industry, safety is always a top priority. Packaging not only protects products but also directly affects consumer health. In recent years, the market has shifted towards safe plastics that are BPA-free and non-leaching. Although many plastics are used, only a few meet strict food and pharmaceutical standards. This article introduces the top five safest plastics widely used in packaging production today.
WHAT ARE SAFE PLASTICS IN PACKAGING?
Safe plastics in packaging are materials that can come into direct contact with food or pharmaceuticals without posing health risks. They are free of BPA, do not leach harmful chemicals, and do not alter product flavor or quality. Beyond health, safe plastics must provide effective protection by limiting moisture, oxygen, and gas penetration.
Another crucial criterion is recyclability and environmental friendliness. Today’s trends require materials that are not only safe but also contribute to reducing plastic waste. For this reason, safe plastics are increasingly emphasized in the sustainable strategies of many businesses.
TOP 5 SAFEST PLASTICS IN PACKAGING
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene, marked ♷, is one of the most widely used and safest plastics. It withstands high temperatures and is microwave-safe. PP is non-toxic, non-leaching, lightweight, and durable.
Its applications are diverse, including food containers, lids, and pharmaceutical bottles. In pharmaceuticals, PP is often used for pill bottles, vials, and blister trays. With stability and safety, PP is considered the number one choice for direct-contact food and pharmaceutical packaging.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE, marked ♴, is known for exceptional strength and excellent moisture resistance. It is non-leaching and highly recyclable. This safety and stability make HDPE a staple in packaging production.
In practice, HDPE is used in milk bottles, water containers, medicine pouches, and shampoo bottles. Its durability ensures products remain intact during transportation. With proven safety, HDPE is trusted by many companies as a reliable packaging material.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET, marked ♳, is a familiar plastic in daily life. It is transparent, lightweight, and highly recyclable. PET is BPA-free and safe for food and beverages, though best suited for cold or ambient-temperature products.
Applications include water bottles, soft drink bottles, food trays, and vacuum-sealed packaging. Its clarity enhances product appeal, making PET a preferred choice in the beverage and food industries.
Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH)
EVOH has no distinct recycling code and is typically used in multilayer films. It is a premium barrier resin with excellent resistance to oxygen, carbon dioxide, moisture, and odor. EVOH extends shelf life by preserving product quality.
In food packaging, EVOH is used in sausage casings, processed foods, and modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP). In pharmaceuticals, EVOH protects medicines from air and humidity. While rarely used alone, EVOH plays a vital role in long-term product preservation.
Explore EVOH products distributed by Vichem here
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
PLA, marked ♹ or ♺, is a bioplastic made from renewable resources such as corn or sugarcane. Its greatest advantage is biodegradability, reducing plastic waste. PLA is completely safe and non-toxic for consumers.
Its main applications are in green packaging products like wraps, straws, cups, and single-use containers. Despite limitations in heat resistance and mechanical strength, PLA is valued for sustainability. It is an ideal solution for eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging trends.
SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING TRENDS
The packaging industry is undergoing a strong shift toward safety and sustainability. Consumers are increasingly concerned about health while demanding eco-friendly packaging. This drives businesses to prioritize materials such as PLA and multilayer films with EVOH.
Beyond safety, modern solutions help extend shelf life and reduce food waste. PLA offers a green pathway, while EVOH provides superior protection. Combining safety with sustainability is the key to the future of packaging.
VICHEM – AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR OF CERTIFIED CHEMICAL ADDITIVES IN VIETNAM
Vichem is an authorized distributor of certified chemical additives in Vietnam. We provide not only high-quality products but also international-standard after-sales services. Our services include:
- Technical consulting: Helping customers select the right products for printing technology and application needs.
- Color-matching tests: Vichem’s experts conduct professional tests to ensure print results meet design standards.
- Practical application support: Assisting customers in integrating pigments into production lines to achieve optimal efficiency.
For more information about our products, please contact us through the following channels:
📞 Hotline: 08 1790 1790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
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🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
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