PVC Food Wrap is a thin plastic film that is mostly used to seal and secure food items in containers. Once the food items are sealed, they can stay fresh for a longer time. You can buy PVC food wrap in individual rolls or a box with a cutting edge on it.
Plastic wrap is traditionally made of Polyvinylidene Chloride, but today there are other options that have become very popular. One popular alternative to PVC food wrap is the one made of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), although it has a downside, which is a poor amount of cling.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food wrap is commonly used for:
- Catering
- Wrap fruits, vegetable, cheese, and sandwiches
- Cooked meats, etc.
Do you wish to find out more about PVC food wrap? Read on.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is food wrapped in plastic?
PVC Food wrap is used to wrap food as it clings to itself and to food containers to form a tight seal. Stretch film maintains the freshness of the food by preventing air from coming in.
It also keeps moisture away from dry foods and protects wet foods from losing moisture. Another benefit of using stretch film is to seal in the odour and keep it from extending over to other foods stored nearby.
2. Is it safe to wrap food in plastic wrap?
Yes, it is safe.
No evidence suggests that PVC food wrap is harmful, but it is a good idea to keep the wrap at least 2 centimetres from food items.
3. How thick is plastic wrap?
Most plastic wraps are 35 – 40 gauge.
4. What is the difference between PVC food film and Non-PVC food wrap?
Stretch film was first made from Polyvinylidene Chloride (also known as PVC), the most common material. Non-PVC food wrap is mostly made from Low-Density Polyethylene.
The main difference between both of them is that PVC food wrap is a cling film while Non-PVC is not.
5. Can PVC food wrap be used in the microwave?
Yes, but it is a good idea to poke holes for steam ventilation. Moreover, the stretch film mustn’t come into contact with food high in fat. You should know that fat can melt plastic wrap if heated to a high temperature.
6. What stretch film size should I use?
The size of the stretch wrap is determined by your needs as there are different thickness and widths for all types of applications.
7. Can PVC food wrap be used in the freezer?
Yes, it can be used to freeze foods. The best way to wrap food for the freezer is to do it tightly, and make sure to leave out any excess air. By removing all the air, you can prevent freezer burn.
8. Can I use plastic wrap in the oven?
No, plastic wrap should not be used in:
- Ovens
- Stovetops
- Toaster ovens
The PVC food wrap will melt if used in any of the above cooking items.
9. Can Plastic wrap be heated?
As mentioned, the stretch film cannot be heated in the oven or with other forms of direct heat. Remember that plastic wrap can melt when heated.
10. Is PVC food wrap environmentally friendly?
PVC food wrap manufacturers, such as Thong Guan takes priority in keeping the Earth as clean as possible. The polyethylene films we produce are safe for the environment. Why is PVC food wrap environmentally friendly?
- Recyclable
- Does not contain or produce any toxic or hazardous by-products
- Provides sanitation
- Long-lasting, so there is no wastage
- Using PVC food wrap reduces the growth of mold, algae or infections by pests and rodents.
11. Is plastic wrap a good insulator?
Plastic wrap has many benefits but unfortunately it’s not a good insulator. It may help with heat retention, but aluminum foil is a better insulator. The best way to use plastic wrap as an insulator is to use two layers with air in between.
Takeaway
Food wrap is a thin plastic film that is mostly used to seal food items in containers to keep them fresh for a longer time. It is also used for storage and transportation.
PVC food wrap clings to many smooth surfaces without adhesive. This is one of the main benefits of using Polyvinylidene Chloride instead of NON-PVC food wraps.
Remember the most important role of PVC food wrap is protection and preservation so it is great for catering, restaurants and even supermarkets as it protects the food from moisture, light, insects, and animals.
Last but not least, remember when you use PVC food wrap, you are also reducing food waste and saving the environment.
