Cling film, also known as cling wrap, plastic wrap, or food wrap, is a thin, transparent plastic film used for wrapping and preserving food and other items. Below are the details about cling film:
1. Materials Used:
-
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): The most common material, offering flexibility and cling properties.
-
Polyethylene (PE): An alternative to PVC, often used for food-safe and eco-friendly films.
-
Biodegradable Materials: Eco-friendly cling films made from plant-based materials like cornstarch.
2. Features:
-
Transparency: Allows for easy identification of the wrapped items.
-
Cling Ability: Adheres tightly to surfaces like bowls, plates, and food items.
-
Flexibility: Can stretch slightly to conform to the shape of the item.
-
Moisture Barrier: Prevents moisture loss and protects food from drying out.
-
Breathability: PVC films allow slight permeability to oxygen, keeping food fresh.
-
Temperature Tolerance: Works well in refrigerators and at room temperature.
3. Sizes:
-
Width: Typically ranges from 9 to 18 inches for household use, and up to 24 inches for industrial applications.
-
Thickness: Varies from 8 to 15 microns for household use and can go up to 25 microns for commercial/industrial purposes.
-
Roll Length: Household rolls (30-300 meters), commercial rolls (500-3000 meters).
4. Applications:
-
Food Preservation: Covers leftovers, fruits, vegetables, meats, and bakery items to keep them fresh.
-
Packaging: Used in commercial food packaging for meats, fish, and other perishables.
-
Storage: Protects food items in refrigerators and freezers.
-
Non-Food Uses: Securing items for transport, art projects, or DIY tasks.
5. Types:
-
PVC Cling Film: Flexible, strong cling properties, suitable for wrapping fresh foods like meats and vegetables.
-
PE Cling Film: Softer, less clingy but often used for eco-friendly purposes.
-
Microwave-Safe Cling Film: Designed to withstand higher temperatures during microwave use.
-
Antifog Cling Film: Prevents condensation, ensuring clear visibility in food packaging.
6. Benefits:
-
Extends the shelf life of food by reducing exposure to air and moisture.
-
Maintains food flavor and texture by preventing odor transfer in refrigerators.
-
Easy to use for wrapping irregularly shaped items.
-
Lightweight and cost-effective.