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    Sometimes when we buying or customizing vacuum sealer bag, often emphasize the thickness, often believing that thicker bags indicate better quality. In fact, thicker bags do not necessarily mean better quality. The appropriate thickness of a vacuum sealer bag depends on its size, and using a thicker bag incurs higher costs.

    For example, in the case of aluminum foil vacuum sealer bags, the material cost of aluminum foil is not cheap. If the vacuum sealing bag is too thick, it may lose flexibility and become prone to damage when folded during storage. Additionally, in low temperatures, excessively thick vacuum sealer bags can become brittle and easily rupture.

    What is Vacuum Sealer Bag?

    custom vacuum seal bags are storage bags that work with a vacuum sealer machine. Vacuum sealing is the process of removing air from the bag before it is closed. When done correctly, this method can extend the shelf life of the contents by slowing down oxidation and inhibiting the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast. Therefore, vacuum sealing is often used to preserve food, although it can also be used to protect important documents or materials from air and moisture.

    Most vacuum sealer bags are made of durable, flexible plastic material, with multiple layers of different polymers or plastic types, and one side usually has a textured pattern. This texture is essential for the vacuum sealer machine to successfully extract air from the bag. When the opening of the bag is placed into the vacuum sealer machine, the machine will suck out the air, then use heat to seal the opening, forming a tight barrier.

    These bags are used in both home and commercial settings, to improve the food storage of meat, vegetables, cheese, and more, making them a more lasting, fresher choice, and reducing food waste. Vacuum sealer bags can be obtained in pre-cut sizes or as rolls, which can be cut and sealed at one end to create custom-sized bags.

    Three raw steaks vacuum-sealed in a clear plastic bag by KanzoPack.
    Vacuum Sealer Bag
    KanzoPack embossed vacuum sealer bag rolls with one bag filled with dry pasta on a wooden surface.
    Vacuum Sealer Bag Roll

    How to Selecting Vacuum Sealer Bag Thickness​

    The selection of vacuum sealer bag thickness should also consider the usage environment and purpose that we just mentioned in FAQ. Different occasions and requirements may demand different thicknesses of vacuum sealer bags.

    For instance, vacuum sealer bags used in high or low temperatures should have thicknesses that can adapt to temperature changes to ensure performance and effectiveness. Additionally, vacuum sealer bags used on vacuum sealer packaging machines should have thicknesses that match the machine for smooth operation and efficiency.

    Different materials require precise exposure to heat during the sealing process to ensure effective fusion. Sealing temperatures typically range between 250°F and 450°F, depending on the bag's material.

    Differernt Temperatures for Sealing Vacuum Bags:

    • Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE) – Optimal sealing range: 270-370°F

    • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Recommended sealing range: 300-350°F

    • Polypropylene – Requires a higher sealing temperature of 380-450°F

    The right sealing temperature is pivotal for establishing a strong, leak-proof seal on bags. If the heat is insufficient, proper sealing may not occur; conversely, excessive heat can lead to melting or burning through the bag material.

    Using a thermally-controlled sealing device is essential, and testing temperatures with sample bags is recommended to determine the optimal heat setting. Achieving a precise sealing temperature is crucial for securing items within the bag and extending shelf life – a valuable tip for those involved in packaging.

    A black vacuum sealer machine sealing a seasoned raw steak in a plastic bag next to a plate with another steak.
    A KanzoPack vacuum sealer machine packaging a seasoned steak for preservation.

    Advice on Selecting the Right Vacuum Sealer Bag

    Here is some advice from KanzoPack for you when you are confused about selecting the right vacuum sealer bag:

    Different products may require different thicknesses of vacuum sealer bags depending on their shape, size, and durability.

    For example, products that have sharp edges or corners, such as bones, nuts, or metal parts, may need thicker bags to prevent punctures or tears. On the other hand, products that are soft, flexible, or delicate, such as bread, cheese, or flowers, may need thinner bags to preserve their shape and texture, and we recommend 3-4 mil.

    Recommended Thickness

    You can refer to the table below for some general guidelines on the recommended thickness of vacuum sealer bags for various products:(1 Mil is 1/1000th of an inch)

    Product Thickness (mil)
    Nuts 4 - 5
    Metal Parts 4 - 5
    Bread 3 - 4
    Cheese 3 - 4
    Flowers 3 - 4
    Meat 3 - 4
    Fruits 3 - 4
    Vegetables 3 - 4
    Cookies 3 - 4
    Coffee Bean 3 - 4
    Tea 3 - 4
    Candy 3 - 4
    Medicine 3 - 4
    Pet Food 4 - 5

    Products Not Suitable for Vacuum Sealing

    Vacuum sealing is a versatile form of food storage. However, there are some items that you should not vacuum seal:

    • Liquids - They can't be vacuum sealed as the machine will suck the liquid from the bag and not be able to create a proper seal, this means your food will leak.
    • Carbonated drinks - When you remove the air from around a carbonated drink (soda, energy drink, beer, etc.) you're left with a vacuum that may or may not be strong enough to cause the plastic sides of the bottle to collapse. It's more likely, however, that the internal, atmospheric pressure on the liquids would be enough to squish the liquids into the shape of the void left by the exiting air, meaning that any vacuumed soda will quickly inflate its encasement like a balloon.
    • Fatty foods - The fats inside the food can turn rancid under vacuum conditions, and you certainly don't want to be sealing any food that could potentially clog the vacuum sealer itself.
    • Sharp objects - Items like unpacked metal objects, for example, could easily puncture the sides of the vacuum bags.
    • Raw potatoes, onions - Both items release gases that can sometimes affect the seal.
    • Opened cans or jars - Because the internal part of the container remains unsealed, so the food contained inside could still spoil if you're putting it away for very long.
    • Items with a high moisture content - like lettuce, as the item could oxidate and become soggy very quickly.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Vacuum Sealer Bags

    Answer: The thickness of vacuum sealer bags directly impacts the freshness, protection, and durability of the product. Different thicknesses of bags are suitable for different types of products, depending on their shape, weight, and characteristics.

    Answer: Products with sharp edges, substantial weight, or susceptibility to punctures, such as metal parts or meat, require thicker vacuum sealer bags to provide enhanced puncture resistance and prevent damage or leakage.

    Answer: Soft, flexible, or delicate products, such as bread, cheese, or flowers, are generally recommended to use thinner vacuum sealer bags (3-4 millimeters) to maintain their shape and texture. Contact us to get the right recommended Vacuum Sealer Bags.

    Answer: Yes, good thickness uniformity in the vacuum sealer bag film contributes to achieving better print registration accuracy, ensuring consistent print quality.

    Answer: Besides thickness, it's important to pay attention to whether the thickness is uniform. Uniform thickness helps achieve consistent heat sealing quality and avoids localized poor heat sealing. Additionally, higher thickness in vacuum sealer bags generally requires a higher initial heat sealing temperature, and vice versa.
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    KanzoPack vacuum sealer bag rolls and a bag filled with pasta on a wooden table.
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