Airtight food packaging is the technique that allows vacuum packaging and, in this way, delays deterioration. To achieve this result, you need to consider certain practical aspects. Here we describe them.
The 5 keys to achieving correct airtight food packaging
Airtight food packaging prevents air from deteriorating foods and, once the technique is known, it is a simple process that can be done in series.
The truth is that, in some cases, these processes are necessary when an element is perishable. A practical example is meat, fish, or fresh fruit. The days it can be kept in perfect condition, even with refrigeration, are few. And, in this case, airtight packaging may be of interest to extend durability. Therefore, it should not be surprising that it is a technique with follow-up.
In fact, it is common in the food industry, for example. But what do we need to know for this process to be done correctly? Here we offer you some practical keys:
1. Verify that personnel have the necessary professional qualifications
The first thing you need to be clear about is that the personnel who will carry out the packaging work have the necessary training. Basically, they need to know how to use an automatic machine and be up to date regarding Occupational Risk Prevention. Brief training or a short course will be necessary, in principle, to meet this requirement. However, make sure it is regulated and that it actually serves the purpose you are going to apply.
There is another issue, which is to supervise with some frequency that these good practices are carried out. Sometimes, small oversights in personal hygiene or adjustments can bring very negative consequences. And, finally, remember that when new machinery is introduced, it is sometimes necessary to update knowledge.
2. Decide on the necessary packaging layers
The choice of the number of necessary packaging layers is another aspect to decide a priori. When it comes to food for domestic consumption, one layer is usually sufficient. However, if it comes to foods that are going to be commercialized, perhaps two or three layers will have to be applied. In addition, you also have to consider the pallet wrapping, conceived to be airtight. And, what’s more, the materials used can be different in each layer.
It is evident that, depending on the type of food, the packaging layers necessary for the product will differ. A piece of meat or fish is not the same as a can of preserves or a cardboard container that has to be packaged. Consequently, and for subsequent decisions, this has to be correctly defined.
3. Use good quality packaging materials
The quality of the packaging materials you use is also a defining aspect. Basically, strapping can be used or, more commonly, film. Now, not all film is of the same quality, so it is advisable to make sure that the supplier provides guarantees. It is worth, therefore, that you take this into account, because a defective film will have fatal consequences for food quality.
Airtight food packaging is generally done with film, since strapping is used for binding. And stretch film, without a doubt, offers more safety and preservation guarantees. Therefore, this is one of the necessary points so that there are no accidental breaks.
4. Use a wrapping machine that responds well
Wrapping machines are those that achieve packaging of pallets in good condition. When it comes to food, there is a first sealing phase, but subsequently, the pallet must be wrapped for several reasons. In this case, it is essential that you use a machine that provides you with guarantees. The Saturn S8 machine, for example, will allow you to process up to 160 pallets per hour with transparent film.
But moreover, using a machine is not only faster, but also safer. If it is properly adjusted and programmed, it reaches a level of precision difficult to achieve when handled by a human being. And, in addition, the human effort factor is minimized, being able to direct that workforce to other functions.
What we recommend is that, in each case, you choose the wrapper that best fits your needs. Quality is guaranteed by operation, but it is true that wrapping speeds can vary substantially.
Likewise, our wrappers have the advantage that they can perform anti-rain and anti-dust wrapping cycles. In order to offer and guarantee safer protection for the product. In the case of the food sector, it is something to consider since it allows the product to be well preserved and free from any damage.
5. Control process traceability
Controlling process traceability is another essential point for airtight food packaging to be successful. These are the main steps you need to take:
- Assign a batch to each product batch. Here it is especially important that, at the time of packaging, you take advantage to label. This way, if there is any problem, the damaged batch can be correctly isolated.
- Establish control of each phase of the process. This means that you clearly delimit what the responsibilities are in each case. And, undoubtedly, it will make the difference. Today there are several software systems that facilitate this control work, identifying the problem where it corresponds. In this way, responsibilities are more easily clarified and the incident is solved earlier.
- Perform quality tests before a massive process. This way, you will see if the machine works correctly or if you need to make prior adjustments. It is preferable to waste a little time than to spoil the entire batch. The truth is that this is going to help a lot and is a good practice that should always be implemented.
Traceability, for safety and economic profitability, has to be controlled because credibility is capital that should not be lost. Therefore, do not spare efforts in this part.
In conclusion…
Airtight food packaging, if done correctly, is an easy process that provides guarantees. Whether you are a producer or distributor, having adequate machinery is necessary. At Movitec we have a wide range of wrapping machines with maximum reliability and great speed. Do you want to know more about the available references? Contact us without obligation!