Difference between Waxed Bags and Glassine Bags

The difference between packaging supplies is what that gives packagers a choice to go for the right option. For instance, you can use either a corrugated box for outer packaging or a chipboard box, based on your requirements. Similarly, there is a difference between waxed bags and glassine bags. And so, they serve difference packaging purposes.

In this article, we are going to discuss this difference between both kinds of the bags.

Dry waxed bags

Waxed paper bags are widely used for the packaging of food items. The paper used in the making of these bags is coated with paraffin wax during manufacturing process. The main purpose of this wax is to make the paper suitable for the packaging of foods that are oil or covered in condiments. However, this paper is not limited just to the packaging of foods. It is quite commonly used for the packaging of items which need to be protected from oils, moisture and many different types of pollutants.

One major drawback of these paper bags, however, if that they are not immediately recyclable or compostable. That is due to the effectiveness of wax applied to the paper during manufacturing process. Nevertheless, this paper cannot be put into the category of packaging materials which are not eco-friendly because it biodegrades anyway.

Glassine bags

While these bags are also used for the food packaging, they are made for the packaging of different foods than the ones which can be packaged using dry waxed paper bags. Glassine is basically a smooth and shiny paper which is made to resist water, air and grease through a process which is called supercalendering. After the paper is pressed and dried, it is run through the cylinders which are covered with fiber and steel. This process flattens the fibers on the paper to make them facing one direction.

The best thing about glassine paper is its translucent nature which allows the customers to see what’s packed inside the paper. Items which can be ideally packed in this paper are usually the bakery foods like candies, cookies and other baked goods. Nonfood items which can be packed in this paper may include soap and candles.

Since there is no chemical used in the manufacturing of this paper, it is composed of only paper fibers which are flattened. And the best thing is that this paper is fully recyclable and compostable.