Why PE shrink film is replacing PVC for bottle multipacks and bundling, and how to choose the right material for clarity, safety and cost.
What PVC Shrink Film Is (and Why It Is Declining)
PVC shrink film was historically cheap and high-clarity, but it releases corrosive hydrochloric acid when burned, is harder to recycle, and faces tightening restrictions in many markets. Many brands are phasing it out for sustainability and compliance reasons.
What PE Shrink Film Offers
Polyethylene (PE) shrink film is recyclable through common streams, has good clarity and strength, and shrinks at lower temperatures that suit heat-sensitive bottles. It is now the default for beverage multipacks, canned goods bundling and retail multipacks.
Key Differences at a Glance
PVC wins on rock-bottom price and very high clarity; PE wins on recyclability, lower shrink temperature, and a cleaner environmental profile. PE also tends to be tougher, reducing punctures in transit. For most consumer-facing bundles today, PE is the safer long-term choice.
Which Should You Choose
If you ship beverages, brewery or retail multipacks and care about recyclability and brand image, choose PE. Reserve PVC only for legacy equipment where retrofit cost is prohibitive — and plan the switch. Confirm your shrink tunnel temperature range matches the film.