FLEXIBLE POUCH MATERIAL GUIDE
Food-grade pouches · Structure reviewed for your product
What does PET + PE mean in a custom pouch specification?
The material selector describes a laminate, not one homogeneous plastic sheet. Here is how to read the outer, optional interlayer and inner sealant choices used in the instant estimator.
Get an instant estimate ↘How the laminate selector is organised
| Layer | Options in the estimator |
|---|---|
| Outer film | PET by default; PA or EVOHPE can be selected as alternative review starting points. |
| Optional interlayer | None by default, or VMPET when a metallised, opaque layer may be appropriate. |
| Base / sealant film | PE, shown as the fixed inner layer in the current calculator. |
| Finish | Gloss or matt for the online estimate; windows, selective finishes and foil details require a specialist quote. |
Why is PET + PE the default?
It gives customers a clear, consistent starting point when they do not yet have a technical laminate specification. It does not mean PET + PE is automatically correct for every product. Oxygen, moisture, aroma, light, chemical compatibility, sealing temperature and mechanical stress can all change the recommendation.
If you want FORMPACK to recommend the structure, include what is being packed, the target fill weight, desired shelf life or barrier priority, storage conditions and whether filling is manual or automatic.
When does VMPET enter the discussion?
VMPET is presented as an optional metallised film layer. In this calculator it is the relevant selection when the brief calls for an opaque pouch or improved light blocking. It also changes the appearance of transparent areas, so windows or selective opacity need a manual design and production review.
The online choice is deliberately simple. It does not promise a particular barrier value; those requirements must be confirmed against the exact laminate and the packed product.
How should thickness be selected?
The common quotation settings are 8C, 10C, 12C and 15C. Select “Recommend for me” when the product and handling conditions should drive the choice. The calculator uses a conservative provisional 15C assumption only while that recommendation is pending; a normal fixed-thickness selection does not carry that assumption.
Thickness affects estimated material weight and therefore delivered cost. The production specification should also consider seal integrity, stiffness, puncture resistance, drop performance and the filling process. A sample or production test may be needed before the final structure is approved.
How does printing affect the quote?
Without uploaded artwork, the live price is based on a transparent, unprinted pouch. With artwork, the interface estimates a colour-plate range. Photographic or continuous-tone artwork starts from four CMYK process plates; distinct spot colours and white underprint may add plates. The displayed £75–£100 per plate is planning guidance, not final prepress approval.
READY TO PRICE A REAL SPECIFICATION?
Build the pouch, see a delivered estimate, then ask a specialist to verify it.
No account is required. Standard production MOQ starts at 5,000 pieces, with a 14–21 day production target after specification and artwork confirmation.
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