Wrapper: The Outer Material Encasing a Product

August 31, 2024 3 min read Packaging Manufacturing Wrapper Packaging Encasing Material Product

In-depth exploration of wrappers as the outer material used to encase products, often synonymous with packaging material.

On this page

A wrapper is the outer material used to encase a product. This term is often synonymous with packaging and specifically refers to the packaging material itself. Wrappers can range from simple materials like paper or plastic to more complex multilayered composites. They serve various functions including protection, preservation, and providing information on the product enclosed.

Types of Wrappers

Paper Wrappers

These are commonly used for food products, gifts, and everyday items. Types include:

Wax paper: Often used for wrapping food items.
Kraft paper: Known for its strength and durability, commonly used for industrial purposes.

Plastic Wrappers

Plastic is versatile and comes in various forms such as:

Polyethylene (PE): Widely used in the food industry.
Polypropylene (PP): Known for its resistance to chemicals and moisture.

Composite Wrappers

These involve a combination of materials like aluminum, paper, and plastic to leverage the advantages of each:

Tetrapak: Commonly used for liquid packaging like milk and juice.

Functions of Wrappers

Protection

Wrappers defend the product against physical damage, contamination, and environmental factors. For example, a chocolate bar wrapper prevents it from getting crushed or contaminated.

Preservation

Certain wrappers are designed to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is an advanced technique used in food preservation.

Information

Wrappers often contain essential information such as brand names, nutritional facts, usage instructions, and bar codes for retail purposes.

Historical Context

The history of wrappers is closely tied to the evolution of packaging. Early wrappers relied on natural materials like leaves and animal skins. The industrial revolution and the advent of plastics revolutionized the packaging industry, making wrappers more efficient and widely available.

Applicability

Wrappers have applications in a wide array of industries including but not limited to:

Food & Beverage: Ensuring freshness and protection.
Pharmaceuticals: Providing tamper-evident and sterile packaging.
Consumer Goods: For ease of handling and marketing appeal.

Packaging: Broader term that includes all aspects of enclosing and protecting products for distribution, storage, and sale.
Envelope: Typically refers to a flat, flexible container used for documents or items.

FAQs

What materials are most commonly used in wrappers?

Plastic, paper, and composite materials are among the most commonly used materials for wrappers.

Are wrappers recyclable?

Many wrappers are recyclable depending on the materials they are made from; however, composite materials can be more challenging to recycle.

Do wrappers contribute to environmental pollution?

Yes, especially single-use plastic wrappers are a significant source of environmental pollution. Efforts are underway to develop more sustainable packaging solutions.

References

“Packaging Materials.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.
Soroka, W. “Fundamentals of Packaging Technology.” Institute of Packaging Professionals.
Selke, Susan E. M. “Plastics Packaging: Properties, Processing, Applications, and Regulations.” Hanser Gardner Publications.

Summary

Wrappers play a crucial role in the packaging and protection of products across various industries. They deliver multiple functions such as protecting against damage, preserving product integrity, and providing critical information. As sustainability concerns rise, the focus is shifting towards developing eco-friendly packaging solutions to meet growing environmental standards.