Potato Chips Packaging Bags FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Potato chips are one of the world’s most popular snacks—but have you ever wondered how they stay fresh, crispy, and flavorful for so long? A major reason is the quality of the packaging bag.

For snack brands, food factories, and distributors, choosing the right chips packaging bag involves many technical considerations such as materials, thickness, shelf life, and barrier performance.

This FAQ addresses the most common questions to help you select the best packaging solution for your potato chips products.

1. What materials are commonly used for potato chips packaging bags?

The most widely used materials include:

① PET / AL / PE (Aluminum Foil Laminated)

• Excellent oxygen and moisture barrier
• Maximum light protection
• Ideal for long shelf life or export products

② PET / METPET / PE (Metallized Film Laminated)

• Good barrier performance
• Cost-effective option
• Suitable for mid-shelf-life snacks

2. Why is the inside of a chips bag silver?

The silver layer is either:

• Aluminum foil, or
• Metallized film (METPET)

Both block light, oxygen, and moisture—keeping chips crisp and fresh.

3. What thickness is recommended for chips packaging bags?

• 70–90 microns — standard retail chips
• 100–120 microns — export or premium products
• Below 60–70 microns — not recommended

Thicker films offer stronger protection and durability.

4. Why is there so much air inside the chips bag? Is it underfilled?

This is not air — it is nitrogen gas.

• Prevents chips from breaking
• Reduces oxidation
• Maintains crispiness

Nitrogen is 100% safe and food-grade.

5. What bag types are best for potato chips?

✔ Classic Choice: Pillow Bag

• Compatible with high-speed packaging machines
• Cost-effective
• Widely used globally

Premium Options:

• Stand-Up Pouch
• Quad Seal Bag
• Zipper Pouch

6. Aluminum foil vs. metallized film — which is better?

7. Does the packaging bag affect the shelf life of chips?

Absolutely. Chips are extremely sensitive to:

• Oxygen
• Humidity
• Light

If the packaging lacks proper barrier material, chips may soften or lose flavor.

Shelf life reference:

• Aluminum foil bags: 6–12 months
• Metallized film bags: 3–6 months

8. Are eco-friendly chips packaging options available?

Yes — including:

• PLA biodegradable materials
• Mono-material recyclable PE/PP

However:

• Lower barrier performance
• Shorter shelf life
• Not ideal for oily snacks

9. Can potato chips packaging bags be custom-printed?

Yes. Custom options include:

• High-resolution gravure printing
• Glossy or matte finishes
• Metallic effects
• Spot varnish

Brands can fully customize design and size.

10. What should I look for when sourcing chips packaging bags?

• Food-grade certification (FDA, EU, etc.)
• Solvent-free lamination
• Strong sealing strength
• High-barrier materials
• Custom sizes and prints
• Stable mass-production quality
• Durability for long transportation

Conclusion

Potato chips packaging may look simple, but it plays a critical role in freshness, shelf life, and brand value. With this FAQ, you now have a clear understanding of materials, barrier needs, thickness, and packaging options — helping you make informed product decisions.