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What is retort pouch packaging?

19.02.25

Content:

Retort packaging is an advanced type of flexible packaging designed for high-temperature sterilization, making it ideal for long-term food storage. In 2017, Aris Pack successfully passed all necessary tests for retort packaging production, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.

What makes retort packaging unique?

Retort material is a multi-layer laminate with enhanced barrier properties, specifically developed for liquid and ready-to-eat foods that require extended shelf life. It serves as a modern alternative to traditional tin cans, offering numerous benefits:

  • High-temperature resistance: Products can be sterilized and thermally processed directly in the package at temperatures ranging from 120°C to 140°C.
  • Preserves natural taste: The packaging ensures that the natural flavor of the food remains unchanged.
  • Extended storage convenience: Even after opening, food can be stored in the same package.
  • Cost efficiency: Retort pouches are significantly cheaper to produce than metal cans.
  • Space & weight reduction: Compared to cans, retort packaging takes up much less space and weighs considerably less, making it easier to transport and store.
  • Easy to open: No knife or can opener is needed, as the package includes user-friendly tear notches.

Applications of retort packaging

Ready meals for outdoor activities and busy lifestyles

Retort packaging allows natural foods to be thermally processed without preservatives, ensuring freshness for up to 12 months without refrigeration. These pouches are ideal for travelers and urban professionals looking for quick, convenient meal solutions. Popular packaged meals include:

  • Ready-to-eat soups, such as borscht and mushroom puree soup
  • Bean dishes and stews
  • Meat dishes with grains

With its lightweight and compact design, retort packaging is a game-changer for camping trips and travel adventures.

Military rations

Retort pouches are essential for military food supplies. Manufacturers of meat dishes, sauces, soups, fish, canned goods, jams, and porridge with meat prefer retort packaging due to its durability and practicality. Unlike bulky cans, these flexible vacuum-sealed pouches can be easily carried in pockets or backpacks, making them a perfect solution for soldiers in the field.

Pet food packaging

One of the largest global markets for retort packaging is pet food. Studies indicate that up to 60% of canned pet food worldwide is produced in retort pouches.

Sterilization is a crucial step in pet food production, ensuring microbiological safety throughout the product’s shelf life. The process also enhances the aroma and taste of meat-based pet food due to the Maillard reaction. The sterilization temperature for pet food ranges from 110°C to 130°C for 7 to 20 minutes, depending on the product type and packaging size.

Retort packaging formats and customization

Aris Pack manufactures various types of retort pouches, including doy-pack and three-seal bags, in multiple sizes:

  • Pet food packaging: 85g, 100g, and 150g
  • Ready meals for human consumption: 250g to 400g

Additional convenient features include:

  • Tear notches for easy opening
  • Euro hole for hanging display
  • Spout attachment for liquid products

Retort packaging also offers extensive customization options, allowing brands to implement creative designs with high-quality rotogravure printing.

Conclusion

Retort bags is revolutionizing the food and pet food industries with its superior functionality, extended shelf life, and cost-saving benefits. As a lightweight, space-efficient, and easy-to-use alternative to traditional cans, it continues to gain popularity in various sectors, from military rations to premium pet food solutions.

With Aris Pack at the forefront of retort packaging production, businesses can benefit from innovative, high-quality solutions tailored to their needs.