Thermoforming is a highly efficient packaging process used by food manufacturers to create custom packages directly from roll stock film. It is commonly used for meat, seafood, cheese, ready meals, and other food products that require secure packaging and extended shelf life.
Unlike tray sealing, which uses preformed trays, thermoforming machines create the package during the packaging process, helping reduce material costs and improve production efficiency.
How Does Thermoforming Work?
A thermoforming machine follows a simple process:
- Form: Bottom film is heated and shaped into a package.
- Fill: The product is placed into the formed cavity.
- Optional MAP or VSP: Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) or Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) can be added to extend shelf life.
- Seal: Top film is heat sealed to the package.
- Cut: Packages are cut and discharged for labeling and shipment.
Benefits of Thermoforming
Thermoforming offers several advantages for food manufacturers:
- High-speed production
- Lower packaging material costs
- Custom package designs
- Compatibility with MAP and VSP
- Consistent package quality
- Reduced packaging waste
These benefits make thermoforming an excellent choice for medium- to high-volume production environments.
Common Applications
Thermoforming is widely used for:
- Fresh meat and poultry
- Seafood
- Cheese and dairy products
- Ready-to-eat meals
- Processed foods
- Pet food
Thermoforming vs. Tray Sealing
Thermoforming creates packages directly from roll stock film, while tray sealing uses preformed trays. Thermoforming is often preferred for high-volume production and custom packaging designs, while tray sealing offers greater flexibility for multiple tray formats.
Veripack Thermoforming Solutions
RTG Packaging offers Veripack thermoforming systems designed to improve efficiency, reduce packaging costs, and support advanced technologies such as MAP and Vacuum Skin Packaging.
Contact RTG Packaging today to learn how thermoforming equipment can improve your packaging operation.