BON, BOPET, and BOPP: Comparing Top Performers in Flexible Packaging
Posted on October 10, 2025
When it comes to high-performance flexible packaging, three materials consistently lead the pack: Biaxially Oriented Nylon (BON), Biaxially Oriented Polyester (BOPET), and Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP). Each of these films offers unique characteristics that make them ideal for specific applications — from food and medical to industrial and personal care.
🎯 Application Snapshot:
| Film | Common Applications |
| BON | Vacuum pouches, meat & cheese packaging, retort* & boil-in-bag applications, bag-in-box liquid packaging, sterile healthcare packaging, chemical Pouches |
| BOPET | Snack food wrappers, pharmaceutical packaging, blister packs, high-barrier laminates, electrical insulation, “universal” strength layer in laminations |
| BOPP | Bakery items, dry snacks, labels, overwraps, candy, heat shrink overwrap |
* as an inner layer in a multi-layer structure.
🔬 Key Performance Characteristics:
| Property | BON | BOPET | BOPP |
| Tensile Strength | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Oxygen Barrier | Good | Moderate | Low |
| Moisture Barrier | Low | Moderate | Good |
| Heat Resistance | Very good | Excellent | Fair |
| Clarity | Very good | Very good | Excellent |
| Puncture Resistance | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Printability | Very good | Excellent | Excellent |
💰 Cost Considerations:
- BON tends to be more expensive but excels in demanding applications requiring toughness and heat resistance.
- BOPET offers a middle ground with higher strength and thermal stability. Best for high speed packaging applications.
- BOPP is the most cost-effective, widely used for high-volume consumer packaging.
⚙️ Features & Benefits:
- BON: High toughness, abrasion resistance and heat resistance make it ideal for packaging of wide variety of bag-in-box applications and retortable packaging. Also, when combined with barrier layers (e.g. foil), it is ideal as a protective film for long-term storage of equipment and parts.
- BOPET: High dimensional stability and excellent printability; a favorite for laminations used in high-speed packaging (e.g., stand-up pouches, condiments).
- BOPP: Lightweight, low cost, excellent clarity and moisture barrier — a go-to for dry foods and snack items.
🏁 Bottom Line:
Selecting the right film depends on your specific product and packaging needs.
Need help determining the best fit?
📞 Contact Cadillac Products Packaging Company today:
🌐 www.cadprod.com | ✉️ contactus@cadprod.com | ☎️ 800-837-0055