Bag in Box With Tap: Structure, Benefits & Liquid Dispensing Systems

Known in the hospitality trade as bag-in-box (BIB), this form of liquid packaging has grown far beyond its original niche. Soft-drink syrup lines, cold brew coffee dispensers, cocktail programs, iced tea, sauces and even syrups now depend on it, because it delivers cost efficiency, a lighter environmental footprint and better product quality at the same time.

How a Bag in Box With Tap Dispenses Liquid

Demand for BIB dispensing systems has expanded alongside the number of options available to serve the liquid. Many operators now choose a BIB system fitted with a tap, so the product can be poured straight from the bag in a process built around user-friendly efficiency.

• Tap placement: the tap usually protrudes through a pre-scored opening in the box, so nothing has to be opened or cut.
• One-way valve: once the tap is connected to a compatible bottle, the valve opens only under pressure from the dispensed liquid, which prevents oxidation and contamination.
• Boxed wine: in some commercial applications a special spout on the bag fits a built-in port in the lid of the box, letting wine be poured directly from the bag.
• Barrier film: a high oxygen barrier is built into the bag in every case, protecting the product from oxidation and extending shelf life.

Flexible Bags That Behave Like Rigid Cartons

Pouches keep gaining traction, yet some products still call for a more rigid structure that stands up on the shelf and is easy to stock. Advances in film stability have made stand-up pouches compare favorably with cartons in retail packaging. Manufacturers can also stiffen these flexible bags or shape them so the pack takes on a rigid appearance that mimics a carton and keeps its integrity on the shelf.

• Stiffer film: stands more securely and simplifies restocking
• Carton-like silhouette: shelf presence without losing brand identity
• Structural integrity: less collapse and slumping in the display

Closure Reliability You Can Measure

A specialized closure called a Vitop tap is an essential component of this type of bag-in-box system. It is tamper proof and has an impressive leak rate of 1 in 85 million, making it highly secure and reliable for both retail and foodservice use.

What Foodservice and Cleaning Brands Gain

For foodservice operators, a bag-in-box with tap reduces the amount of waste generated from the product. It is also easier to handle than a keg and more compact for tight spaces, and BIB systems can be replaced and cleaned far more quickly than a keg, minimizing downtime for staff.

• Easier handling than a keg, with a smaller footprint in tight back-of-house areas
• Faster replacement and cleaning, so staff spend less time on changeovers
• Longer shelf life, which helps streamline inventory management, reduce waste and save money

This type of liquid packaging suits restaurants, cafes, quick-serve restaurants, hotels and convenience stores, and is particularly well suited to businesses that rely on syrups and liquid detergents or cleaning products.

Evaluating a bag in box with tap for your own line? Guangdong Kody Packaging (Dongguan Kody Plastic Products Co.,Ltd. / Guangdong Kody Packaging Products Co.,Ltd.) supplies spout pouches, bag-in-box, stand-up pouches with tap, liquid packaging bags and laminated roll film, and can advise on the right format for your product. Contact us for a quotation and samples.