Bag and pouch packaging has seen an incredible evolution since the days of cellophane. With the development of Mylar® (the introduction of polyester into the mix) and subsequent technological advancements, plastic and foil bag packaging is more effective, versatile, convenient and attractive than ever before. Due to some of the features available, pouches are the packaging of choice for manufacturers and distributors alike. Perhaps no bag packaging packages contents better than stand up zip pouches.

Stand up zip pouches, usually referred to as stand up pouches, Mylar® barrier bags and stand up bags, are made of multiple layers of special film which are laminated together to create a barrier that is strong, durable, puncture-resistant yet flexible. The process is energy efficient and although multiple film layers are used, stand up pouches require less material to make than do most other packaging bags (up to 12 percent less).

When we talk about a zip pouch, we are talking specifically about a stand up pouch with available zip lock or zipper style closures that, combined with the barrier properties of the pouch, protect the contents from vapor, odor, moisture, light, air, pests and/or pets, as the product warrants. The zip pouch prevents spills and, for those products with an expiry date, seals in freshness, flavor and/or nutritional or chemical potency which, therefore, extends product shelf life.

The zipper closure is not the only convenient feature offered by zip pouches, however. Optional tear notches make the bag easy to open. The fact that stand up pouches really do stand up means that they store conveniently and save space in a garage, closet, kitchen or refrigerator.

Standing up on the shelf enables your brand to stand apart from the competition on the store shelf. For those products not too large or heavy, round and sombrero-style hang holes are also available, providing grocers and retailers a second display option. Display options are available as well as a result of the wide front and back pouch panels which easily accommodate company labels or custom printing in up to 10 colors.

Stand up zip pouches: Performance in packaging.