In the global market, in terms of flexible packaging, retort applications are gaining ground and arewidely regarded as the future mainstream trend note. In below figure, was presented the trend of the market for retortable pouches. Specifically, retortable flexible packages are produced via utilisation of laminated materials, which are, in turn, manufactured by high-heat-resistance base materials, special inks and adhesives suitable for sterilisation.
Foods are initially prepared raw or cooked and then heated to 116-127oC for sufficient time periods under high pressure. This process eliminates all commonly occurring microorganisms, simultaneously increasing the food lifetime. The process is similar to the canning; nevertheless, using flexible packaging materials that are resistant to sterilization and conform to all quality and safety requirements, traditional packing methods can be superceded.
Some important advantages of flexible packaging for retort applications are:
- Better processing conditions of foodstuffs (excessive cooking of the content is avoided due to larger contact surface of flexible materials, which leads to taste improvement),
- Reduction in cooking time (by 30-50%),
- Reduction in mass of packaging materials,
- Lower storage costs relative to cans (<96%),
- Lower transportation cost (1 truck with printed reels is equivalent to 25 trucks loaded with cans),
- Lower volume (increased utilization of warehouse/storage space),
- Higher quality design, enhanced marketability/aesthetic appeal.
A. Hatzopoulos S.A. Industry has the equipment and expertise (know-how) to produce retort packaging contented the high requirements of these structures. Hatzopoulos portfolio has the possibility to produce unprinted and printed materials, transparent or not. Our priority is to ensure food safety and to satisfy our customers and the final users.
