Food, medicine, and other items go into mylar bags for good reason. They keep everything fresh and safe. But what’s the deal with them? I’ll break it down for you.
What Is Mylar?
Basically, mylar is plastic. It’s made of polyethylene terephthalate. Water bottles and some food containers are made from PET. PET gets strong and flexible when it’s stretched really thin. That’s why Mylar works.
Mylar bags start as thin sheets of PET plastic. These sheets are coated with a layer of aluminum. The aluminum gives the bags their shiny, silver look. It also makes them better at blocking air, light, and moisture. After coating, the sheets are shaped and sealed to form bags.
Mylar bags need the aluminum layer. It keeps out things like oxygen, light, and water that spoil food. It’s this layer that makes the bags work. Besides being lightweight, aluminum adds little thickness to bags.
Are Mylar Bags Just Plastic?
Well, not exactly. A mylar bag isn’t just plastic because it’s coated with aluminum. PET plastic and aluminum combine to create Mylar.
Yes, Mylar bags are safe. PET plastic and aluminum are approved for food use. Many companies use them for storing coffee, dried fruits, and even emergency food supplies. They don’t leak chemicals or affect the taste of food.
What Makes Mylar Bags So Strong?
PET plastic with an aluminum coating makes Mylar bags strong. It’s tough and doesn’t tear without serious stress. Since the aluminum adds extra protection, Mylar bags can handle rough use.
Mylar bags come in custom and standardized sizes. Some are small and used for snacks. There are also a variety of sizes you can have produced. You pick the size based on what you’re storing.
There are a few types of Mylar bags. Some are thicker and better for long-term storage. Others are thinner and used for everyday packaging. Some bags have a zipper for easy opening, while others need to be sealed with a heat sealer.
Mylar bags are airtight because of their design. The aluminum coating blocks air, and the seams of the bag are heat-sealed. When sealed properly, no air can get in or out. This keeps food fresh for a long time.
Why Are Mylar Bags Used for Food Storage?
Mylar bags are great for food storage because they keep food safe from air, light, and moisture. These are the main things that cause food to spoil. By keeping these out, Mylar bags can keep food fresh for years.
Some Mylar bags can be reused. If you open a bag carefully, you can clean it and use it again. However, this only works if the bag hasn’t been damaged. Bags used for long-term storage might not be reusable because they are sealed tightly.
Are Mylar Bags Recyclable?
It depends. PET plastic can usually be recycled, but the aluminum coating makes it harder. Some recycling centers accept Mylar bags, but not all do. It’s best to check with your local recycling center to see if they accept them.
Mylar bags can last a long time if stored properly. If they are sealed correctly and kept in a cool, dry place, they can keep food fresh for 5 to 25 years. However, the actual lifespan depends on the quality of the bag and the storage conditions.
You can store almost anything in Mylar bags. People use them for food like rice, beans, pasta, and dried fruits. They also store medicine, seeds, and important documents. Mylar bags are even used for emergency kits because they keep items safe for a long time.
Conclusion
Mylar bags are made from PET plastic and coated with aluminum, making them strong, airtight, and great for storage. They protect items from air, light, and moisture, which helps keep food and other items fresh for years. Whether you’re storing food, seeds, or emergency supplies, Mylar bags are a reliable option. With proper sealing and care, they can last a long time and give you peace of mind.