BOPP vs. CPP Films: An In-Depth Overview for Modern Packaging

BOPP and CPP films are foundational materials in flexible packaging, each engineered to support different performance expectations. Although both originate from polypropylene, their distinct production methods result in unique mechanical behaviors, sealing characteristics, and end-use advantages. Understanding how these films differ helps converters, brand owners, and packaging engineers choose the right structure for efficiency, print quality, and product protection.

Understanding BOPP Film

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) is produced by extruding polypropylene into a sheet and stretching it in two directions. This dual-orientation process significantly enhances optical clarity, stiffness, and strength while improving moisture resistance. BOPP’s stable surface properties also make it highly receptive to printing and coating.

Primary Attributes:

• Exceptional transparency and gloss

• High tensile strength and stiffness

• Excellent print performance (especially after corona treatment)

• Low density, enabling high yield and cost efficiency

• Solid moisture barrier and good dimensional stability

BOPP is a cornerstone substrate for snacks, dry foods, labels, and numerous retail packaging formats that demand visual clarity and rigidity.

Understanding CPP Film

CPP (Cast Polypropylene) is produced through a cast extrusion process where molten PP is deposited onto a chill roll, resulting in a smooth, flexible, and seal-friendly film. Unlike BOPP, CPP is not biaxially stretched, giving it a softer feel and significantly better seal performance.

CPP is commonly manufactured in several specialized grades, including general-purpose, metallized, and retort versions.

Primary Attributes:

• Excellent sealing strength without added coatings

• Strong moisture resistance

• Good clarity and gloss

• Enhanced tear resistance, especially in the machine direction

• Ability to withstand high-temperature processes (retort-grade structures)

CPP is highly effective in bakery bags, fresh produce, apparel packaging, and multi-layer laminate structures.

How BOPP and CPP Differ

Manufacturing Approach

Category	BOPP	CPP
Orientation	Stretched in both MD and TD	Lightly oriented (MD)
Process Type	Tenter-frame or bubble process	Cast extrusion with chill roll
Key Outcome	High strength + clarity	High sealability + softness

Performance Characteristics

Properties of BOPP

• High stiffness and rigidity

• Excellent optical clarity

• Strong barrier against moisture

• Good ink adhesion and print definition

• Limited heat-seal performance unless modified

Properties of CPP

• Soft and flexible handling

• Outstanding heat-seal behavior, including low-temp seals

• Good moisture barrier

• Suitable for retort sterilization and high-temperature cooking

• Greater tear strength along MD

Where Each Film Excels

Common BOPP Applications

• Snack packaging

• Pressure-sensitive labels

• Confectionery wraps

• Gift and flower wrap

• Tape facestock

• Clear retail packaging

Common CPP Applications

• Bread and bakery bags

• Produce packaging

• Laminated pouch structures (BOPP/CPP, PET/CPP)

• Retort pouches for soups, sauces, and ready meals

• Clothing, bedding, and textile packaging

Heat-Seal Capability

• BOPP: Seal performance is limited unless a heat-seal layer is added.

• CPP: Naturally sealable, often chosen for its strong and wide heat-seal window.

Film Thickness & Barrier Expectations

• BOPP: Usually thinner, providing stiffness and clarity with efficient yield.

• CPP: Generally thicker, offering excellent moisture protection and robustness in high-temperature applications.

Key Categories of BOPP Film

Heat-Sealable BOPP

Designed for bag-making and high-speed packaging, available in single- and double-seal formats.

Anti-Fog BOPP

Ideal for fresh produce, preventing condensation while maintaining transparency and preventing dehydration.

Matte BOPP

Paper-like aesthetic with a refined, soft visual finish; used in premium labels, brochures, and specialty packaging.

Twist-Wrap BOPP

Offers controlled rigidity and twist retention for confectionery items.

Additional Specialized BOPP Grades

• Straw packaging film

• Release film

• High-barrier protective wrap

• Aluminum-seal film

• Low-static grades

• UV-shielding film

• Antibacterial film

• Ultra-clear high-transparency film

• Low-migration film

• Heat-resistant flame-retardant film

• Label-grade film for wrap-around labels

Key Categories of CPP Film

Lamination-Grade CPP

Used with BOPP, PET, or nylon for flexible pouches; available in multiple sealing ranges from ultra-low to standard.

Metallized CPP (MCPP)

Boosts oxygen barrier, light blocking, and aesthetics for snacks, bakery items, and shelf-stable foods.

Retort-Grade CPP

Engineered to withstand sterilization from 121°C to 135°C depending on grade—ideal for high-fat, liquid, and ready-to-eat meals.

Printing-Grade CPP

Used alone for garment bags, floral wrap, and sanitary packaging where direct printing is required.

Other Functional CPP Options

• Antistatic

• High-rigidity

• Anti-freeze (for cold-chain goods)

• Anti-fog

• CPP/PE coextruded films

Distinguishing PP, OPP, and BOPP Films

Though closely related, these films differ in structure and feel:

• PP (non-oriented): Soft and flexible; used in textiles, hygiene products, and non-woven materials.

• OPP (oriented in one direction): Glossy, crisp, and commonly used in adhesive tapes and garment packaging.

• BOPP (biaxially oriented): High clarity, strength, and superior printability; widely used in food and retail packaging.

Understanding BOPP Labels & Clear BOPP Labeling

BOPP labels are valued for their durability, versatility, and clarity. They outperform paper labels in moisture-rich, chemical-exposed, or high-friction environments.

Why BOPP Works So Well for Labels:

• Holds up to water, oils, solvents, and chemical exposure

• Accepts ink beautifully with consistent anchorage

• UV-resistant for long-term color retention

• Adheres well to glass, HDPE, PET, metal, and textured surfaces

• Flexible enough to contour to curved containers

Finish Options:

• White BOPP: Opaque, premium appearance

• Clear BOPP: Creates a seamless “no-label look”

• Matte BOPP: Low-shine, soft aesthetic

• Gloss BOPP: Adds luster and visual depth

BOPP labels are widely used in food, beverage, beauty, household goods, healthcare, and artisanal products.

Final Thoughts

While both BOPP and CPP films are core materials in flexible packaging, they serve distinct roles.

• BOPP delivers clarity, stiffness, print excellence, and high yield—ideal for branding and retail shelf performance.

• CPP offers sealing strength, flexibility, and thermal stability—ideal for pouches, retort applications, and protective packaging.

Both remain recyclable within PP streams and can be engineered for specialized performance depending on the application.