The functions and advantages of retort pouch packaging are varied, and you can enjoy them once you know what these pouches are and how they work. Retort pouch packaging is an alternative to can and jar packaging. It uses thin laminated and flexible plastic made of several layers of varied materials.
The pouch comprises a polyester layer, an aluminum foil layer, and a polypropylene layer. Food processors first fill the retort pouch with the product and then seal it before treating it with high-heat sterilization. The process removes all bacteria and prolongs the shelf life of the food inside.
Retort pouches can be the perfect package for various items, from juices to curries and soups. Other foods include;
- Wet food
- Treats
- Pre-cooked vegetables
- Rice
- Yogurt drinks
- Pet products
- Sauces
Advantages of retort pouches
These pouches offer plenty of advantages for product manufacturers, retailers, and end users. The main advantages include the following;
Less use of preservatives
Preservatives are a concern for most people as they add the amount of chemicals the food contains. Fortunately, with the retort pouches, the food is sterilized and bacteria removed, allowing it to stay up to 18 months without adding preservatives.
Microwave compatible
The advancement in technology allows retort pouches to use EVOH or PVDC coating, which makes them microwave compatible. The coating also helps the pouches tolerate processing and storage conditions making the process efficient.
Better taste and aroma
Unlike canned packaging and other packaging options, the pouch allows the food to retain its aroma and original texture. That is an added advantage to the end consumer. It is possible because heating the food takes a short time compared to canning, so it does not kill all the nutrients and destroy the texture.
They allow customization
The pouches have a large surface area, giving you surface or your logo graphics and branding. You can also choose from different design styles, including square, flat, spout, and stand-up bottoms. You can also choose the pouch finish materials with aluminum, clear, and kraft options. There are also different sizes, and you can add features, too, from punched handles to spouts and gussets.
Easy operation for users
The pouch’s design makes it a breeze for users to access the food inside. There is no risk of being cut by a knife or broken glass, the container is flexible, and you only need to tear it across on the seam’s side or cut it apart with scissors. Heating the food is also easier as you would only need to place the pouch in boiling water or a microwave, and it will be ready within 3-5 days.
They are cost-efficient
Retort pouches are cost-efficient for production compared to other packaging options. First, their thing and flexible nature mean they take less time to pass heat, thus requiring lesser time for heat.
As such, it takes lesser heat to preserve the food saving on energy costs. It also takes less time to package the products making it easier to do more packaging with less time and resources. They cut down the production time by as much as 40% compared to traditional options. They are also lighter, making it easier to transport them.
They are sustainable and eco-friendly.
Using the retort pouches is sustainable, making them eco-friendly, and it makes economic sense for the company in the long run. First, they are energy efficient, meaning less income and energy resources are spent on heating.
Then the packaging itself is also easy to recycle the world over. The materials themselves and the packages come as a single unit making it easy for easy proper disposal.
No risk of corrosion
Food safety is maintained by the packaging, which provides durability so the food inside cannot be affected by external factors. The inner material is also non-reactive, so there are no risks of corrosion or the cover affecting the chemical makeup of the food.
Retort pouches offer a modern alternative to cans and jars with the same or even better effectiveness. They are cost-effective and logistics-friendly to manufacturers while being safe and easy to use for the customers. They also allow the end user to enjoy food with the same taste and flavor as it was made before preservation.
As more people become aware of the functions and advantages of retort pouch packaging, its demand increases, and the revenue from the industry is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5%. You can join these savvy businesses by getting your retort pouch packs from QQ Studio®. We stock a wide variety of packaging materials and give you excellent options like customization and biodegradable packaging. Visit our website today to pick your best option.