Mylar bags are an excellent choice if you are looking for an ideal packaging solution to pack and preserve food and other items. Today, many businesses and brands use these bags for the long-term storage of items; they serve better if you seal them properly. In addition, mylar packaging bags have become well-known in the packaging industry. According to a recent data report shared by Market Research Future;

The Mylar market size was mainly projected at 1.81 billion USD in 2022. This huge market volume depicts that custom packaging bags have great significance in storing food contents. 

In this article, we will only talk about mylar packaging bags. Let’s start the discussion. 

What Is A Mylar Bag?

A mylar bag is created from BoPET (biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate), laminated with polyethylene or aluminum layers. It is a great-performance packaging solution for long-term storage of food products or other items. This is popular for its remarkable features, like durability, extraordinary flexibility, versatility, sealability, integrity, freshness, resistance to oxygen, and also puncture resistance. The outer polyester film offers printability, while the metallized layers act as a strong barrier shield. The inner PE layer seals the items and keeps the packaging bag airtight. In simple words, mylar bags are a type of packaging solution that protects important products inside. You can read a more detailed guide on what is a mylar bag.

What Is A Mylar Bag Used For?

The use of a mylar bag depends on the product’s storage needs and its nature. Most commonly, perishable items are packed in these bags for long-term storage. 

These wholesale packaging bags are extensively used in the food sector. Other than this, these bags are used to pack in different industries, which include;

• Food Storage

Mylar packaging bags are excellent for storing dry food contents like beans, flour, and other spices because they help in blocking the moisture or oxygen from entering the bags, extending shelf life. If you enter any grocery store, you will see different food products packed in these bags. 

The most popular food items packed in mylar food packaging bags are;

• Pet food
• Dry fruits
• Spices
• Snacks
• Beans
• Pasta
• Coffee

 

• Pharmaceutical Industry

Custom mylar packaging bags are also used in the pharmaceutical industry to pack various medicines. Because medicines need special protection from dust and humidity. It is a go-to option for the entire pharmaceutical industry. 

Some products that come packed in these bags are;

• Cannabis 
• Capsules
• Tablets
• Powdered medicines 

 

• Cosmetic Industry

 

Cosmetic industries or brands use these bags because they can protect the product from contamination. At the same time, branding on mylar bags helps beauty products stand out on retail shelves. Here are some of the products that need to be packed in these bags.

Such as;

• Cleansers
• Powdered masks
• Eyeshadow kits

 

• Documentation Protection

Important documents are kept safe from humidity, dust, and other elements within mylar packaging bags. The items you pack are;

• Comics
• Books
• Documents
• Or other important papers

 

• Electronics

You can keep your electronic items safe in these mylar packaging bags from environmental damage. The electronic items that you can pack in these bags are;

• DVDs
• Cables
• Charges
• Circuit boards

What Are Mylar Bags Made Of?

As we all know, mylar bags are typically created from biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate film. It is a thick & soft polyester film mainly made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Moreover, it has a thin layer of film that is further stretched using rollers in a high-temperature oven. It provides transparency and is laminated with a shiny layer of aluminum and gold.

History of Mylar bags

Mylar, polyester film, was typically established in the 1950s by DuPont and ICI ( Imperial Chemical Industries). This material was branded in the mid-1950s. It has great properties, which include its high-tensile strength and gas barrier features. Mylar was trademarked by NASA for the Echo II balloon. 

Why Are Mylar Bags Different From Normal Plastic Packaging?

These mylar bags are completely distinct from plastic packaging bags due to the excellent barrier features. It provides resistance to any kind of extreme abrasive damage, moisture, oxygen, and punctures, making it a great choice for storing food items or other medications.

Key points that you should know about!

• High-Barrier Properties

They have a unique resistance to water vapor transmission (WVT), meaning they reduce the passage of oxygen and help preserve the freshness of goods. 

•  Metallization

Mylar packaging bags are often metalized with a durable layer of aluminum. It further enhances the barrier properties and offers protection from UV light. 

Why Are Mylar Bags Popular 

As we have discussed earlier, mylar bags are popular because of their great protective properties, including high resistance to water, moisture, and oxygen. 

In addition, their flexibility extends the overall shelf life of contents and easily maintains the freshness for a longer time. 

The reasons for their popularity are;

• Light Protection

The thick aluminum layer on these packaging bags blocks UV rays, which can harm the overall quality of food and other sensitive products.

• Gas And Moisture Resistance

Mylar packaging bags offer an effective barrier against moisture, gas, and oxygen, preventing mold growth and the breakdown of nutrients. 

• Odor Protection

These bags are great at preventing odors from escaping and entering the packaging bag, maintaining the quality of the content during shipping or transportation. 

Types & Sizes of Mylar Bags

The types of mylar packaging bags totally depend on various factors like thickness, style, style, or design. Some famous types of mylar bags are as follows;

• Die-cut bags
• Custom-shaped bags
• Holographic bags
• Smell-proof bags
• Mylar bags For Freeze Dying

It also has some style options, which include;

• Resealable bags
• Ziplock bags
• Vacuum-sealed bags
• Child-resistant bags 
• Spout mylar pouches 

Mylar Bag Sizes

Whether you are in the cosmetic industry or the food industry, selecting the right size for your bags is essential. There are some standard-sized options that companies usually use. In addition, the great thing about mylar packaging bags is that they can be customized in any size, from small to extra large. Some commonly used sizes are;

• Small 

Small-sized mylar ziplock bags offer different dimension options to businesses and brands alike. You can easily pack your tiny items in these packaging bags. 

The available size options are;

•  2”x3”
• 3”x5”
• 4”x6”

Best for: Store single-serve snacks, herbs, spices, and small accessories.

• Medium 

There are key variations in these medium-sized bags as well. These dimensions help brands in packaging their premium and delicate products. 

• 5”x7”
• 6”x9”
• 7”x8”
• 8”x10”
• 12”x16”

Best for: Large portions of dried items like coffee, herbs, nuts, fruits, and other electronic items.

• Large

To pack large items or more than one product, you can use different size options for the large size mylar packaging bags. Such as;

• 16”x18”
• 19”x29”

Best for: Perfect for packing rice, sugar, flour, beans, cosmetics, and dried flowers. 

More size options that are considered extra-large are given below. Let’s take a look at it.

• One gram
• 3.5 grams (⅛ oz)
• 7 grams, or ¼ ounce
• ½ ounce, or 14 grams
• One-fourth pound
• Half a pound
• One pound

Thickness of Mylar Bags

The thickness of mylar bags measures in mills, which are equal to one-thousandth of an inch. The thicker the mil of the bag, the more puncture-resistant your bag will be. 

Moreover, the different thickness levels that you need to know;

• 4.5 mil:  Perfect for lightweight products like seeds, documents, papers, and non-damaging electronics.
• 7 mil: This thickness level offers a good balance between affordability and puncher resistance. It’s a suitable option for most food storage applications.
• 10 mil or higher: Great for durability and heavy-duty storage requirements, like long-term food storage or emergency supplies. 

Small Pouches Vs Large Gallon Bags

Small pouches or large gallons differ in their use. These two have different features and properties. Small pouches are suitable for portioning snacks or organizing small products, while large gallon bags are specially designed for bulk storage of food or shipping of larger items. In addition, small pouches are excellent for keeping tiny items like pills, small hardware devices, or small craft supplies.

Compared to small pouches, 3.5 mil gallon bags can keep non-food items, like toys or other apparel products. 

Zip-Lock Vs Heat-Sealed Vs Vacuum-Sealed

Zip-lock bags offer suitable storage for items with less protection against dust and air, while, on the other hand, heat-sealing has an airtight barrier, which is great for the longer shelf life of the specific items and other industrial uses. 

In addition, a ziplock packaging bag is considered ideal for short-term storage and instant access. Or vacuum sealed mylar bags are excellent for bulk contents. 

How to Use Mylar Bags (Step-by-Step Guide)?

Using mylar packaging bags is a simple method. This simple step-by-step guide will walk you through the use of packaging bags. Let’s start the guide!

• Prepare Your Workspace Or Supplies

You need to check that the specific work area is dry and cool to avoid any kind of moisture. Gather all your wholesale supplies and start the process.

• Label The Mylar Packaging Bags

Before filling, label each mylar bag clearly with the mentioned food type, manufacturing date, weight, and expiration date. This step helps with inventory management. 

• Fill The Custom Bags With Dry Goods

Only use dry food items that are less in moisture or equal to 10%. Avoid food high in grease or oil, as these can leak faster. Freeze-drying foods before packaging your items can kill germs and improve longevity.

In addition, fill the mylar packaging bag, leaving about 2-3 inches of space to allow for the fine sealing process. Gently shake the bag to settle the goods and reduce air pockets.

• Add Oxygen Absorbers

Put the right amount of oxygen absorbers based on the size of the custom packaging bag, normally 300cc per 1-gallon bag. Before you start sealing the packaging bag, add them right away to increase and boost their overall effectiveness. 

• Seal The Bags

Use an appropriate heat sealer or flat iron to seal the custom mylar bag at the recommended temperature for the estimated bag thickness. For extra security & protection, perform a double seal. Test the bag by smoothly squeezing it to check for any air leaks or escapes. 

Quality Check And Storage

After sealing the bags, wait 24 hours to allow oxygen absorbers to work properly. To ensure the packaging bag is fully airtight, you have to perform a squeeze test again. Store your bags in a dry place. 

Remember that if you use the bags correctly, then there is a chance of their extended shelf life. 

Best Foods To Store In Mylar Bags

Food Products	Shelf Life
Pasta and Noodles	Up to 30 years
Brown Rice	1-2 years
Beans	8-10 years
Dried Vegetables	8-10 years
Dried Fruits	10-15 years
Pasta	10-15 years
Rye	Up to 8 years
Barley	Up to 9 years
Candies or Chocolates	Less than 1 year
Roasted Coffee	12 to 24 months (up to 2 years with proper sealing and oxygen absorbers)
Baby Milk formula	5-10 years
Dehydrated Meat	1-3 years
Salt & Sugar	Indefinite period
Cocoa Powder	10-20 years
Tea	20-30 years
Herbs Whole	5-10 years

 

3 Different Methods To Seal Mylar Bags

Here are various methods to seal Mylar bags:

• Heat Seal

One of the most common methods that can be used for mylar heat seal bags. This method creates a heat impression on the surface to lock the edges of the packaging bags. The main purpose of this technique is to prevent the content from contamination. 

Use manual sealers, like an iron, straightener, impulse sealers, or an automatic sealing machine. 

• Vacuum seal

Using vacuum sealing helps to remove excessive oxygen by pulling the packaging material into contact. Removing oxygen from the bags prevents chemical reactions that cause food contents to leak or spoil. This sealing method is a great way for oxygen-sensitive products. By doing this, the shelf life of the items will extend. 

• Zipper sealing

Using these built-in bags prevents your items from contamination. Manufactured from polyester and provides great durability with a closure property. This is an easy resealing method that offers a moisture barrier. 

Mylar Bags vs Alternatives

Mylar packaging bags provide long-term protection for dry food content, but are not very reusable, whereas alternatives like glass jars, plastic bags, and vacuum sealing provide reusable storage and are heavy and fragile in nature.

Custom Mylar Bags

Pros

• Excellent barrier properties
• Long-term storage
• Economical
• Offer great flexibility
• Space efficient

Cons

• Requires a heat sealer
• No physical protection
• Not ideal for wet foods
• Limited sustainability

Vacuum Sealer Bags

Pros

• Versatile for food contents
• Prevents freezer burn
• Airtight seal
• Reduces food waste

Cons

• Oxygen permeability
• Light exposure
• Limited shelf life
• Can be costly
• Required a vacuum sealer 

Plastic bags

Pros

• Widely available 
• Cost-effective
• Lightweight
• Versatile for short-term

Cons

• Poor barrier properties
• Not for long-term use
• Short shelf life
• Fragile
• Environmental concerns 

Glass jars

Pros

• Reusable & sustainable
• Vacuum-sealable
• Waterproof & airtight
• Visible contents
• Durable & non-reactive 

Cons

• Heavy and bulky
• Breakable
• Limited light protection 

Who Uses Mylar Bags?

Mylar bags are mostly used by households, farmers, wholesale grocery suppliers, e-commerce sellers in the market, or coffee roasters for long-term storage of their items, thanks to their ability to block moisture and oxygen. However, it extends shelf life for items like dried goods, coffee beans, and herbs. It is used in various industries.

• Preppers & Households

Mylar packaging bags are great for storing dried food, such as rice, beans, freeze-dried items, or pasta. It will keep your food content for an extended time, up to 25 years. 

Ideal bag option: Thick, heat-sealable bags, flat mylar bags ( 5-7.5 mil)

• Grocery Suppliers & Farmers

Suppliers can use these wholesale bags to store bulky dry goods like seeds and vegetables. 

Ideal bag option: Gusseted mylar bags

• Coffee Roasters

They are commonly used to keep a vast range of food products, such as dry herbs and coffee beans. It has an aluminum foil layer that helps keep the scents of coffee for a longer time. 

Ideal bag option: Resealable, stand-up mylar pouches

• E-Commerce Sellers

Sellers of different products, like pet treats, use mylar packaging bags to ensure their items arrive fresh and intact to clients. 

Ideal bag option: Custom printed resealable mylar bag

Buying Guide 

The buying guide is simple and straightforward. You just need to understand various factors, like thickness, oxygen absorbers required, and the question of where to buy.

Let’s dig into the details.

• Thickness

Thickness	Best for
3.5 mil	Snacks, supplements, coffee, and lightweight dry goods.
5.75 mil	Long-term food storage, which includes pasta, flour, and beans.
10+ mil	Emergency kits or industrial goods

 

• Oxygen Absorbers

 

Bag size	Standard Recommendation
1 Quart	100cc oxygen absorber
1 Gallon Mylar Bag	300cc oxygen absorber
5 Gallon Mylar Bag	2,000 oxygen absorbers

 

• Where To Buy

 

Retail vs. Wholesale	Online vs. Local
Retail (for smaller quantities)	Local packaging supply stores ( Amazon)
Wholesale (for bulk quantities)	Directly from manufacturers and wholesale distributors ( Plus Printers)

 

What To Check Before Buying

You need to look for the following things when buying mylar packaging bags, which include material certifications and reviews from customers. For food-grade use, you have to ensure that the packaging is completely FDA-compliant. Ask the supplier or wholesaler for an authentic certification paper, especially if you are purchasing in bulk.

Furthermore, check for reviews of the customers on the supplier’s website or other platforms. By this, you can simply access the product quality and their customer service. 

In Conclusion

Now, you understand the significance of sealing Mylar packaging bags for long-term food preservation. Fortunately, we provide simple and easy steps for the proper sealing of packaging bags. In addition, a right guide on a mylar bag is essential, that’s why we carefully mention all important steps to simplify the process.

Interested? Join hands with us to buy different types of mylar bags if you need. 

FAQS

What Is The Purpose Of Mylar Bags?

Mylar bags are used to protect food contents from air, oxygen, dust, and moisture to extend the shelf life of products. 

What Cannot Be Stored In Mylar Bags?

You should not store moist foods that produce gas, products with sharp edges, and reactive chemicals. 

What Is Another Name For Mylar?

Another common name for Mylar is BoPET (Biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate).

How Do You Know If Oxygen Absorbers Are Working Fine In Mylar Bags?

If the mylar packaging bags feel “hard as rock” as the vacuum seal becomes apparent within a few hours. If the bag isn’t firm or the pockets of the bag don’t show signs of activity, it clearly indicates a seal compromise on a non-functional absorber.

What Is So Special About These Mylar Packaging Bags?

Mylar packaging bags are mainly considered special because their multi-layer manufacturing offers the best barrier against air, light, and moisture.