Retort Pouches in Grand Rapids, MI

Retort pouches are flexible packaging that withstands the high-temperature, high-pressure sterilization process used to produce shelf-stable food products — replacing the traditional metal can with a flexible format that offers superior consumer convenience, better nutritional retention, faster processing times, and dramatically superior brand presentation through full-surface printing. Our retort pouches are manufactured from validated multilayer film constructions meeting the demanding thermal, mechanical, and barrier requirements of commercial retort sterilization.

The Retort Process

Retort sterilization heats food products to 240–250°F/116–121°C under pressure in autoclave retort systems — temperatures sufficient to achieve commercial sterility (12-log reduction of Clostridium botulinum) for shelf-stable food production. Retort pouches must maintain seal integrity, film integrity, and barrier performance throughout this process and during the subsequent shelf life of the product (typically 18–36 months at ambient temperature).

Retort Pouch Advantages vs. Cans

• Faster heat penetration: Thin pouch profile heats more uniformly than cylindrical can — shorter process times, better nutrient and flavor retention
• Consumer convenience: Tear-open flexible pouch vs. can opener — preferred by consumers across demographic groups
• Superior printability: Full-surface CMYK rotogravure printing vs. label-only can communication
• Reduced weight: 70–80% lighter than equivalent metal can — lower shipping costs
• Shelf space efficiency: Flat-packed retort pouches require less retail shelf space than equivalent can displays