Overwrapping

Overwrapping is a versatile packaging option that can greatly enhance visual appeal, shelf life, and bundling options in the food industry.

Overwrapping, similar to cellophane wrapping, is the application of a second layer of packaging over a product. This allows for optimal freshness and hygiene while offering a wide range of other benefits. It can also be used to combine two or more small packages into a multi-pack.

Benefits of Overwrapping

Besides its ability to be used as a combiner, which makes it ideal for applications such as large packages of bottled beverages, overwrapping can greatly enhance traditional forms of packaging — and, in some cases, can even eliminate the need for them altogether. Through the use of flexible materials and custom sealing, overwrapping allows for the following benefits in the food industry:

• Aroma control: Overwrapping can be used to create a near-hermetic seal to effectively prevent cross-contamination and the release of odor.
• Tamper protection: Applying a seal nearly impossible to duplicate once broken will protect against contamination and easily alert workers and consumers to unsafe packages.
• Extended shelf life: Protecting contents from environmental hazards and airborne bacteria, overwrapping allows for longer shelf life, saving companies both time and money.
• Reduced costs: By eliminating the need for more elaborate designs or heavier packaging materials, overwrapping results in lower costs and simpler labor operations.

• Ease of use: Easy-open or resealable options using design elements such as tear tape allow for simple, convenient user access.
• Custom promotional features: Overwrapping provides opportunities for enhanced hand-wrapped or high-end design effects, as well as product bundling and the addition of eye-catching marketing messages.
• Eco-friendliness: Overwrapping utilizes less packing material than traditional solutions, and is available in biodegradable and eco-friendly forms.

Compared to shrink wrapping and other wrapping styles, overwrapping provides a glossy finish that boosts shelf appeal with a professional look. It supports high-quality graphic printing, allowing for vibrant, eye-catching designs and the flexibility to feature unique branding and product information, including essential details like nutritional facts.

Polyolefin films, in particular, offer a wide color range and design intricacy, enabling brands to create visually striking and informative packaging that captures consumer attention and aids in purchasing decisions.

Overwrapping Materials

A wide range of materials can be used to customize overwrapping packaging. Depending upon the application, the following materials can be used:

• Medical-grade film
• FDA-approved food-contact barriers
• Standard clear, colored, or printed film
• Easy-open films
• Tamper-proof or security film
• Dust-, oil-, or grease-resistant material
• Water-resistant material
• Specialty merchandising or branded films