Your Guide to FSSC 22000 Certified Bags

Your Guide to FSSC 22000 Certified Bags

Certifications are a necessary component of the food supply chain because they help protect several food safety standards through routine surveillance and inspections. Along with the standards they require, obtaining a certification demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to their goods’ quality, safety, and compliance. 

The food packaging industry relies on several certifications, including the FSSC 22000 Certification. Each one focuses on important aspects of the production process and ensures that specific regulations are met every step of the way. 

What Does It Mean to be FSSC 22000 Certified? 

The food production industry uses the FSSC 22000 Certification to confirm the safety of food-grade plastic through strict food safety standards that span from production to purchase. As a complete food safety certification, an FSSC 22000 Certification is one of the most important things a plastic bag manufacturer should have to develop plastic products for food packaging.

What Are The Components of an FSSC 22000 Certification?

The requirements for FSSC 22000 Certification consist of three major components. Each one must be completed in order to achieve certification. 

ISO 22000

The FSSC 22000 utilizes existing international and independent standards, like ISO 22000, as the baseline for the requirements of a food safety management system. 

Sector-Specific Prerequisite Programs

Additionally, obtaining an FSSC 22000 requires using some sector-specific prerequisite programs that can help ensure the maintenance of hygienic and sanitary environments within each organization. 

FSSC 22000 Additional Requirements

Finally, some requirements in addition to the scheme are used to ensure consistency and integrity while adding agility in attending to potential food safety issues. 

What Are The Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification? 

As a globally recognized standard, FSSC 22000 Certification offers an array of benefits for the food packaging industry and other parties in the food production supply chain.

Some of the major benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification include:

  • Increased food safety across the entire production and packaging process
  • Reduced risk of recalls due to controlled safety hazards
  • Increased efficiency resulting from streamlined food safety processes and reduced errors 
  • Enhanced reputation and improved customer confidence 
  • A certification model that can be used in the entire food supply chain
  • Minimized risks for all certified organizations in the supply chain process
  • Industry-wide acceptance and recognition by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI)
  • Required consistent, high-quality audits to verify safety standards
  • Helps manufacturers comply with local laws and regulations 
  • Required recertification every three years

Is A-Pac Manufacturing FSSC 22000 Certified? 

Yes! A-Pac Manufacturing is FSSC 22000 Certified. Our food safety management system was initially certified in 2018, and our FSSC 22000 Certification remains current for manufacturing poly bags and polyethylene film. Since 2018, we have completed thousands of orders following the Food Safety System Certification Scheme. 

Invest in High-Quality Food Safe Plastics For Your Small Business

Whether you’re just getting started in the food industry or simply need a trusted supplier of food-safe plastics, A-Pac Manufacturing can help. Our manufacturing process has obtained a number of food safety certifications, including FSSC 22000, so you can always rely on the safety and quality of our products. Plus, with our unique “no order minimums” approach, there’s no better certified plastic supplier for small businesses. 

If you’re in need of an FSSC Certified manufacturer that works with small businesses, contact our team today and request a quote for your food-safe order!

How to Choose the Right Poly Bag to fit your needs cta
What Production Time To Expect for Custom Poly Bags

What Production Time To Expect for Custom Poly Bags

A carefully planned process is crucial to custom plastic bag production. Generally, plastic bag suppliers expect their manufacturing process to last a few weeks. During this time, the manufacturer works diligently to understand your needs, create product samples, develop a final product, and ship the order. 

When each step is followed carefully, the process is seamless and results in a high-quality custom product created to meet your specific business needs. 

What Factors Determine Plastic Bag Production Time

The total plastic bag production time at A-Pac takes at least three weeks but can vary greatly depending on the specifics of each order, and some suppliers may require longer lead times. 

Significant factors that can affect plastic bag production time include: 

  • Size – length, width, depth, and thickness
  • Style – seals and handles
  • Quantity 
  • Branding – custom logos and colors 
  • Other additives – food grade capability, clarity, etc. 

Your lead time may be shorter if you already have a printed design and an approved proof with the supplier. However, the order may take longer if you’re printing a new order with many unique features, a nonstandard style, or custom logos. Remember, as the complexity of a design increases, so do lead times.

How Long Should My Lead Time Be? 

To make sure your custom plastic bags arrive when you need them, be sure to plan ahead. Our average lead time is three weeks. This allows plenty of time for designing, approving proofs, production, and unforeseen shipping delays. 

So, if you need the bags completed by January 1, you’ll need to place an order on or before December 1 (earlier if your bag’s design is complex). 

How We Make Custom Poly Bags 

Although seemingly complex, the process required to produce plastic bags is relatively easy to follow. At A-Pac Manufacturing, we’ve implemented a five-step process that ensures you’ll receive a high-quality, custom product without unreasonably delayed lead times. 

This is how we do it:

Step 1: Design and Proof Approval

Production of poly bags can’t begin until the bag’s design is complete. Once you’ve worked with us to choose your colors and create a striking design, we can develop a proof of the bag that features all your requested elements, including size, style, color, branding, etc. Then, the proof is sent to you for approval. 

Once you receive your proof, you may realize that your logo doesn’t stand out like you imagined or that the handles aren’t as large as you need them to be. If the proof isn’t meeting your expectations, you can request changes, and we’ll develop a new proof and send it to you again. After you approve the proof, we’ll move forward with production. 

Estimated timeframe: up to one week, but can extend longer. 

Step 2: Poly Film Production

With the specifications of the bag design laid out, the film is ready to be produced. We will manufacture the poly film for your bags to the desired gauge (mil strength), color, bag clarity, and food-grade capability. 

Our poly film is manufactured through a process called extrusion molding. In this process, the polyethylene is melted from pellets, then pushed through a die to form a bubble which facilitates the cooling of the film to the required thickness. Then, the film is used to create bags. 

Step 3: Poly Film to Custom Plastic Bags

Once cooled, the film is rolled onto a spindle for easy dispensing. The film can be easily unwrapped, cut, and sealed to form the main body of the bags. Handles are cut into the bags during this stage, and any special sealing options are also added.

Step 4: Branding

The next step makes the bags unique to your business – adding your custom branding. During this part of the production, the bags are printed with logos, text, or any other elements requested in your proof. Once branding is complete and the manufacturing process is over, the bags are ready to be sent to the client. 

Step 5: Shipping

The last step is to prepare the bags to ship by your preferred method. Shipping time often depends on the distance to the destination and the order size but generally takes about 5-7 business days from standard businesses. At A-Pac Manufacturing, our shipping time is only 1-3 business days! 

Place a Rush Order With A-Pac

Need custom plastic bags on a tight schedule? For orders of custom plastic bags, most suppliers offer lead times of four to five weeks – or sometimes longer. If you need a faster turnaround, A-Pac Manufacturing may be able to help you get your bags sooner! 

Our estimated design and production schedule typically take three weeks; in some cases, we can work with you to reduce production time even further.  

If you need custom plastic bags quickly, give our team a call. Our experts can help you design an outstanding product, and they can provide you with a time estimate for your order’s production. When you choose A-Pac for your manufacturing needs, you can be confident that you’ll have the best bags for your business when you need them.  

Request a quote, and place your custom order today. 

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Invest in Custom Wicketed Bags For Your Business

Invest in Custom Wicketed Bags For Your Business

If you’re looking for practical packaging solutions, wicketed bags could be the right option for your business. They offer convenience and strength for food, medical, and industrial packaging, among others. So, whether you need to package bread or metal parts, wicketed bags are a fantastic option for your business needs. 

What Are Wicketed Bags? 

The unique features of wicketed bags have made them a packaging method that can fulfill various needs. Wicketed bags are defined by the metal wire, known as a wicket, that holds them together and eases the packaging process. The wicket is inserted into small holes at the top of each bag, and the bags are laid over each other. This setup allows each bag to be dispensed individually and efficiently. 

Additionally, these high-clarity plastic bags are also known for their strength. Of course, with plastic bags, increased strength also means increased weight capacity and durability. The practicality and effectiveness of these bags make them an excellent option for any application. 

How Your Business Should Use Wicketed Bags 

Due to the versatility of wicketed bags, they can serve businesses in various forms. Industries like food, manufacturing, and retail often rely on these bags for two main uses, packaging and advertising. 

Packaging

Due to the versatility and durability of wicketed bags, they are used to package many goods. Some of the most common applications for wicketed bags include: 

  • Produce bags
  • Food packaging
  • Bakery bags
  • Bread bags
  • Product bags
  • Small parts bags 
  • Hardware bags 

Advertising

Although plastic bags are seemingly mundane objects, they carry significant advertising power. Wicketed bags are easily customized to promote any product or brand. Therefore, every plastic bag your business uses is an opportunity for advertising that you should utilize to increase your customer base and grow your business. 

Benefits of Custom Wicketed Bags 

Wicketed bags are an excellent option for packaging, and they offer many benefits that can significantly improve your production processes. These are some of the most notable benefits of wicketed bags

  • Ease of use | Wicketed poly bags are easy to dispense, open, and close, making packing quick and simple. 
  • Food freshness | The durable, food-safe material used in producing wicketed bags makes them ideal for keeping debris, moisture, and pests away from edible goods. 
  • Durability | Whether you’re packaging sharp, heavy, or fragile objects, the durability of these bags ensures the utmost protection. 
  • Lightweight | Excellent for shipping goods without affecting weight limits. 
  • Reduced production costs | Easy packing boosts productivity and reduces production costs.  
  • High customizability | Offered in various sizes, thicknesses, colors, and materials. 

How to Customize Wicketed Bags 

Whether you need to package uniquely-shaped objects or drive brand awareness, custom wicketed bags can help achieve your business goals. These bags can be customized in many ways, making endless combinations. 

Size

Wicketed bags can be manufactured in various sizes, accommodating an enormous array of products. A-Pac Manufacturing offers wicketed bags in the following sizes: 

  • Small: 4 x 8 inches to 9 x 12 inches
  • Medium: 12 x 14 inches to 14 x 16 inches
  • Large: up to 25 x 37 inches 

Materials 

  • LDPE – tough, flexible, and moisture resistant
  • HDPE – lightweight, strong, and non-abrasive
  • LLDPE – durable, puncture resistant, and low clarity
  • Metallocene – thin and strong
  • VCI – low density, rust protection, and moisture resistant
  • EVA – elastic, tacky, and sealable
  • UVI – UV ray protection 

Available Colors

Any shade of the following hues: 

  • Red
  • Yellow
  • Green
  • Blue
  • White
  • Black

Printing

With the help of our powerful printing capabilities, you can customize wicketed bags for your business even further. Add logos or descriptors to make the bags functional and unique while strengthening your brand. 

Customize Wicketed Bags for Any Application With A-Pac

The advantages offered by wicketed bags are many. That’s why so many industries rely on A-Pac Manufacturing to develop high-quality wicketed bags. The best part? We offer two essential perks – customization and no minimum order requirements. So, no matter the specifications of your bags, we can make them. 

Ready to place an order? Contact our team to request a quote and get started. 

How to Choose the Right Poly Bag to fit your needs cta
Why Is Polyethylene Used for Food Packaging?

Why Is Polyethylene Used for Food Packaging?

If you’ve ever wondered why polyethylene is used for food packing, the short answer is that it offers many unique properties that make it easy and safe to use on edible goods. Polyethylene packaging can also be produced in mass quantities and various forms, making it the go-to solution for most food packing needs. 

What Is Polyethylene Packaging? 

Since its discovery in the early 1930s, polyethylene has become the most widely used plastic in the world. Polyethylene comes in various forms, ranging from strong, durable plastics to soft, flexible materials. It’s commonly used in the development of many types of goods, including toys, furniture, pipes, cables, bottles, bags, and tubing. 

Benefits of Using Polyethylene for Food Packaging

As one of the most commonly used plastics for food packaging, polyethylene offers many advantages that can affect durability, safety, and shipping costs, among other factors. 

Some of the most notable benefits of using polyethylene packaging for food include the following: 

  • Non-toxic | Polyethylene is a food-safe material that does not react with food products or leach harmful chemicals into foods.
  • Versatile | Polyethylene is easily customizable and easily made into various shapes and sizes, making a suitable packing material for a wide range of food products. 
  • Cost-effective | Affordable and easy to produce, which aids in keeping production costs low. 
  • Lightweight | Easy to transport and ideal for shipping food products without significantly affecting weight limits. 
  • Durable | It’s a strong material that can resist the rigors of shipping and handling.  
  • Enhanced protection | Polyethylene is an excellent barrier to oxygen and water vapor, which can help extend the shelf life of many food products. 

What Types of Polyethylene Packaging Does A-Pac Offer? 

There are many classifications of polyethylene, but the types most often used in the production of clear, flexible packaging are low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). Due to their pliability, versatility, and durability, both LDPE and LLDPE are ideal for producing bags, films, and sheets used in the packaging of consumer goods. 

Most notably A-Pac uses LDPE and LLDPE to produce plastic packaging materials that include: 

  • Flat poly bags
  • Wicketed poly bags
  • Gusseted poly bags
  • Poly bags on rolls
  • Sideweld Poly Bags
  • Bottom-seal poly bags
  • Staple-pack poly bags
  • Custom-printed poly bags 

Common Applications of LDPE and LLDPE

Polyethylene Tubing and Packaging Bags 

The versatility of LDPE products, like polyethylene tubing and bags, makes them ideal for wrapping consumer goods. The thickness of poly tubing and bags typically ranges anywhere from .75 to 6 mil. 

Most packaging on the thinner side can be used for delicate goods like fruits and vegetables, while thicker packaging is best suited for sharp or abrasive objects like nails and screws. Additionally, polyethylene tubing can be cut and sealed at any length allowing it to fit an even more comprehensive range of products. 

Stretch Film

Most extruded packaging films are made with LLDPE. A high stretch rate, low shrinkage temperature, and clarity make LLDPE the ideal type of polyethylene packaging for bundling items like canned goods and water bottles. 

For Unlimited Polyethylene Packaging Solutions, Choose A-Pac

The best advantage of polyethylene packaging is its customizability. Whether it’s size, color, thickness, or branding, A-Pac can manufacture unlimited combinations. We understand that your business has unique needs, and we strive to meet them with every order. That’s why we’ve paired customizable products with no minimum order requirements. 

Whether you need polyethylene packaging for perishable goods or industrial packaging, we can make it. To learn more about our range of products, get in touch with our team or request a quote to get started.

How to Choose the Right Poly Bag to fit your needs cta
What Are the Best Poultry Bags for Food Storage?

What Are the Best Poultry Bags for Food Storage?

Whether you’re selling chicken, turkey, or quail, storing poultry properly is essential to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. Poultry bags are a type of food storage bag that can help you keep your chicken, turkey, or other poultry products fresh for longer. But what are the best poultry bags for food storage? Let’s explore some of the options and features you should consider.

How To Find the Best Bags for Poultry Storage

When choosing the best bags for poultry storage, you need to consider vital factors, including the following:

Material

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing poultry bags is the material they are made of. Ideally, you want to choose bags that are food-grade and safe for storing poultry. Polyethylene (PE) is a common material used for poultry bags because it is durable, resistant to tears and punctures, and easy to seal. Look for bags that are BPA-free and meet FDA requirements for food contact.

Quality and Durability

Poultry bags should be able to withstand the weight and moisture of the meat without tearing or leaking. You don’t want to risk contamination or freezer burn due to a low-quality bag. Look for bags that have a high gauge (thickness) and are designed for heavy-duty use. A-Pac Manufacturing offers a variety of poultry bags that are designed for long-term storage and transportation, such as the Heavy Duty Poly Poultry Bags and the Tamper-Evident Gusseted Poultry Bags.

Customization

If you are selling poultry products or transporting them for commercial purposes, you may want to consider customized poultry bags. Customized bags can be printed with your company logo, product information, and other branding elements. This can help you stand out from the competition and build brand recognition.

Styles Types of Poultry Bags

There are several types of poultry bags available, each with their own features and benefits. One popular option is sideweld poly bags, which have a strong, durable side seal that runs the length of the bag. These bags are ideal for packaging whole birds, parts, or ground poultry products.

Flat poly bags are another option for poultry storage. These bags are flat and have no gussets or folds, making them perfect for portion control and separating individual cuts of poultry. They can be sealed with a twist tie, heat sealer, or clip.

Gusseted poly bags are similar to sideweld poly bags, but they have side gussets that expand to provide extra space and allow the bag to stand up on its own. These bags are ideal for packaging larger cuts of poultry or whole birds. They are made with sturdy polyethylene that resists tearing and punctures.

Poly bags on rolls are a convenient option for high-volume packaging. These bags come on a roll and are perforated for easy tearing. Staple-pack poly bags are pre-folded and stapled for easy dispensing. They are commonly used in butcher shops and meat counters. Finally, bottom-seal poly bags have a strong, sealed bottom that provides extra support for heavier poultry products. They are ideal for packaging bone-in cuts or whole birds.

Contact A-Pac Manufacturing for All Your Poultry Storage Bag Needs

Choosing the right poultry bags for food storage is important for maintaining the quality and freshness of your poultry products. Consider the material, quality, durability, customization, and type of bags when making your decision. A-Pac Manufacturing offers a wide selection of poultry bags that are designed to meet the needs of both home cooks and commercial businesses.

How to Choose the Right Poly Bag to fit your needs cta