Stretch Banding vs Shrink Wrapping in Pharma Packaging

Stretchband Packaging
2 days ago
2 min read

Understand the pros, cons, and compliance factors when choosing between two common pharmaceutical packaging methods.

What Is Stretch Banding?

Stretch banding is a modern packaging method that uses tensioned film to secure grouped items—without applying heat. This is particularly beneficial for the pharmaceutical industry, where product sensitivity and packaging integrity are critical.

The process involves wrapping a narrow film band around items like cartons or blister packs. The band is then sealed with ultrasonic welding or adhesive—offering both secure bundling and tamper evidence.

Typical use cases in pharmaceutical packaging:

Bundling medicine cartons for distribution
Wrapping vials or ampoules in trays
Grouping blister packs for secondary packaging

✅ Learn more about pharma stretch banding applications

What Is Shrink Wrapping?

Shrink wrapping involves enclosing products in shrink film and applying heat (via tunnels) to shrink the film around the package. It creates a tight, transparent seal, often used for display multipacks or logistical bundling.

Common pharma applications:

Multipack formats of over-the-counter medications
Tamper-evident overwraps for prescription packs
Bulk transit packaging

Key Differences for Pharmaceutical Packaging

🔥 Heat Sensitivity

Stretch Banding: ✅ Safer for biologics and temperature-sensitive drugs, as no heat is used.
Shrink Wrapping: ⚠️ Involves heat tunnels that may affect heat-sensitive APIs or packaging materials.

⚡ Energy Consumption & Sustainability

Stretch Banding: ✅ Energy-efficient—no heat tunnels, lower carbon footprint.
Shrink Wrapping: ❌ High energy use from heat-sealing and tunnels.

Did you know? Stretch banding can reduce energy use by up to 70%.

⚙️ Speed and Automation

Stretch Banding: ✅ High-speed systems with flexible inline integration, ideal for batch changeovers.
Shrink Wrapping: ⚠️ Fast but less adaptable due to fixed tunnel configurations.

💷 Material Cost Comparison

Stretch Banding: ✅ Up to 70% less film required, reducing plastic usage and cost.
Shrink Wrapping: ❌ Full enclosure means more film and higher per-pack cost.

Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

Both methods can comply with MHRA, EU, and FDA guidelines for tamper evidence and safety. However, stretch banding offers several compliance-friendly advantages:

Clear label visibility for serialization and batch tracking
Easier to align with UK and EU sustainability targets
Lower Scope 2 emissions for ESG reporting

Final Verdict: Which Is Right for Your Line?

Feature	Stretch Banding	Shrink Wrapping
Suitable for heat-sensitive?	✅ Yes	⚠️ Risk with heat
Energy efficient?	✅ Lower energy use	❌ High electricity required
Automation ready?	✅ Quick changeovers	⚠️ Less flexible setup
Plastic usage	✅ Minimal material	❌ High material volume
Tamper-evidence compliant?	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

Bottom line: For pharmaceutical manufacturers looking to optimise cost, sustainability, and product safety, stretch banding is the superior solution—especially when dealing with heat-sensitive or high-throughput environments.