Which Vacuum Pouch Thickness Do You Need? 65mu vs 90mu

At Parkers Food Machinery Plus, we get asked a lot about vacuum pouch thickness. It’s a simple detail that makes a big difference. If you’re packing meat, cheese, cooked foods, or ready meals, the choice between a 65mu or 90mu vacuum pouch affects strength, shelf life, and presentation.

This guide will help you understand the differences clearly, using examples based on real needs we see every day from our commercial customers.

Understanding Microns and Why They Matter

Microns, or “mu”, refer to the thickness of the pouch. One micron equals one-thousandth of a millimetre. In food packaging, every micron matters. Too thin, and you risk punctures or seal failure.

Too thick, and you may be spending more than you need to, especially for lighter, soft-packed items.

At Parkers, we supply vacuum pouches in both 65mu and 90mu, in a wide range of sizes. Each thickness has its purpose, and choosing the right one helps you avoid waste, improve hygiene, and get better results from your vacuum packing process.

What is a 65mu Vacuum Pouch Best For?

A 65mu vacuum pouch is a versatile, cost-effective option. It’s commonly used for:

• Fresh meat cuts (with no sharp bones)
• Cooked meats and sliced deli products
• Cheese and vacuum-packed vegetables
• General sous vide applications

These pouches are strong enough for everyday use and provide a clear, professional finish. For most soft-textured or boneless items, 65mu is perfectly sufficient.

You can find our full selection of 65mu vacuum pouches here. They’re available in various sizes to suit everything from small retail packs to bulk catering quantities.

When is 90mu the Right Choice?

A 90mu vacuum pouch provides a thicker layer of protection. It’s the go-to option for more demanding uses:

• Bone-in meat products like ribs or chops
• Hard cheeses with sharp edges
• Heavier or denser portions, such as large joints or roasts
• High-abuse environments like transport or export

This extra thickness gives you peace of mind if there’s a higher risk of puncture or handling damage. It’s also popular with butchers and meat processors who deal with bone-in cuts daily.

Explore our range of 90mu vacuum pouches here. If you’re unsure which size suits your needs, our team can point you in the right direction.

Do You Always Need Thicker Pouches for Safety?

Not always.

Thicker doesn’t mean better in every situation. Using a 90mu pouch for soft items like sliced ham or grated cheese is often unnecessary. You may be paying more without gaining any performance advantage.
We usually recommend sticking with 65mu unless:

• You’ve had issues with bursting or leakage
• You’re packing something with pointed or sharp contents
• Your items are handled frequently or shipped in bulk

If you’re packing for direct-to-consumer or local wholesale delivery, 65mu is typically strong enough.

Compatible with Most Vacuum Sealers

Both 65mu and 90mu vacuum pouches from Parkers are compatible with chamber vacuum sealers. They meet food safety standards and are suitable for vacuum sealing machines used in butchers, delis, commercial kitchens, and food manufacturing.

You can pair your vacuum pouches with our vacuum sealing machinery, which is selected to work reliably with a variety of pouch types and sizes.

How to Store and Handle Vacuum Pouches

Whatever thickness you choose, vacuum pouches should be stored in a clean, dry area and kept flat to avoid creasing. Make sure your sealing surface is dry and free from oils or product residue for the best seal.

Once sealed, store your vacuum-packed goods in line with your usual cold chain or shelf-life management protocols. Proper use of vacuum pouches can significantly extend shelf life while keeping your product looking professional and hygienic.

Choosing the Right Size for the Job

Size is just as important as thickness. A pouch that’s too small may not seal correctly, and one that’s too large can look untidy and waste material. At Parkers, our vacuum pouches range from compact 150x200mm sizes right up to 400x600mm for large roasts or catering portions.

If you’re unsure what size or thickness works best for your operation, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help with recommendations based on the products you’re packaging.

Trusted by UK Butchers, Processors and Caterers

We supply vacuum pouches to food professionals across the UK. From small family butchers to commercial food manufacturers, our customers rely on consistent quality and fair pricing.

All our vacuum pouches are food-safe, BRC-compliant, and competitively priced. Whether you need a single case or regular pallet volumes, we can supply what you need efficiently.

For more technical information on vacuum pouch specifications, Packaging Europe is a great external resource for keeping up with trends and developments in food-grade packaging materials.

Selecting the right vacuum pouch thickness comes down to product type, handling, and storage needs. A 65mu pouch is ideal for most everyday items. If you’re dealing with bone-in cuts, heavy portions, or high-abuse handling, then 90mu gives you the extra protection you need.

If you’re still unsure which option fits best, you’re welcome to get in touch with the team at Parkers. We’re always happy to help find the right fit for your setup.

Explore our full range of vacuum pouches here and discover dependable quality at competitive prices.