Ever opened a brand-new packaging pouch and caught a whiff of something… not so fresh? That’s the odor from plastic packaging films1, and it’s more common than you’d think.
Plastic packaging odors often stem from material composition, manufacturing processes, or environmental factors. To reduce odor, choose high-barrier materials, optimize production conditions, and use odor-absorbing additives.
But what if you want to make sure your packaging stays fresh and neutral? Let’s break it down.
What type of plastic is smell proof?
Some plastics are better than others when it comes to blocking odors. If you need smell-proof packaging, you’ll want to go for high-barrier materials.
Smell-proof plastics include multi-layer films like EVOH, PVDC, and aluminum-laminated structures. These materials prevent odor leakage and help maintain product freshness.
Why do some plastics trap odors better?
Not all plastics are created equal. Some materials, like standard polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), are more porous, meaning they allow tiny odor molecules to escape. But when you introduce high-barrier films, like:
| Plastic Type | Smell-Proof Features |
|---|---|
| EVOH (Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol) | Excellent barrier against oxygen and odors. Often used in food packaging. |
| PVDC (Polyvinylidene Chloride) | High resistance to moisture and smells, common in vacuum-sealed packaging. |
| Aluminum Laminates | Completely blocks odors, but not always eco-friendly. |
These materials create a strong barrier, keeping external odors out and internal scents locked in.
When should you use high-barrier packaging?
If you’re packaging strong-smelling items—like coffee, spices, pet food, or protein powder—you’ll want to use high-barrier films. This not only keeps your product fresh but also prevents contamination from external odors.
How do you get rid of packaging smell?
Ever noticed that “new plastic” smell? That’s usually from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), residual solvents, or material breakdown.
To reduce packaging odors, use low-odor materials, optimize manufacturing processes, and consider odor-absorbing additives like activated carbon or zeolites.
Practical ways to minimize plastic odors:
There are several ways to tackle unwanted packaging smells:
| Solution | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Use odor-absorbing additives | Materials like activated carbon, baking soda, or zeolites help absorb VOCs. |
| Choose low-VOC plastic resins | Opt for materials with fewer residual chemicals to reduce initial odor. |
| Optimize curing and drying processes | Ensuring proper drying during manufacturing minimizes lingering solvent smells. |
| Ventilation and aging | Letting pouches air out before sealing can help dissipate odors. |
What causes the smell in the first place?
Some odors come from the plastic itself, but others come from manufacturing processes. For example:
- Heat-sealing residues – Some adhesives or inks used in printing can leave a faint smell.
- Solvent-based printing – If inks or coatings aren’t fully cured, they can retain a chemical odor.
- Environmental absorption – Plastic films can absorb surrounding odors if stored improperly.
If you’re sourcing packaging for food or sensitive products, always check with manufacturers about their odor-reduction processes.
Conclusion
Nobody likes smelly packaging. By choosing the right materials, optimizing production, and using odor-reducing additives, you can keep your packaging fresh and neutral—just the way it should be.
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Many people notice an odor when opening new plastic packaging. If you’ve ever experienced this, it’s likely due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), residual solvents, or environmental absorption. By understanding these causes, you can make informed choices about materials that help minimize unwanted odors, whether you're a manufacturer or a buyer. ↩
