benefits of retort pouches

Benefits of retort pouch:
1. A pouch takes less time to reach sterilization temperature than can or jar, which is due to the thinner pouch profile and its larger surface area per unit volume. In addition, because the product near the surface is not overcooked, as it can be with cans and jars, the [product quality is better maintained. The product retains its color, remains firmer in texture and fresher in flavor, and experiences less nutrients loss. The pouch is especially beneficial for such products as delicate sauces, seafood, and entrees, where color and texture are important. Also, products such as vegetables can be packed in retort pouches with less brine (required for improving the heat transfer processes). Thus, there is less shipping weight and less discarding of brine.
2. A pouch product is commercially sterile, does not require refrigeration or freezing, and its shelf-stable at room temperature.
3. Pouched food can be eaten without heating, or it can be heated quickly by placing the pouch in boiling water for a few minutes. Frozen foods, in contrast, require heating for about half an hour. Thus, less energy is required for heating a retort pouch. Pouched food can also be heated in a microwave oven simply by removing it from the pouch before heating.
4. A pouch can be easily and safely opened by tearing it across the top at the notch in the side seal or by cutting it with scissors. There is no need for a can opener and no danger from can lids or broken glass. There is also no problem in handling a pouch immediately after removal from boiling water.
5. There is no need to get pots or pans—or even dished—messy. The food can be eaten directly from a pouch or served on dishes.
6. Pouches weight less than comparable cans and jars, thus reducing distribution costs.
7. Pouches, empty and full, take up less storage space than comparable cans, jars and trays. Empty pouches, for example, occupy up to 85%less storage space and cans.
8. Pouches, including paperboard cartons, will most likely require less energy to manufacture than cans, jars, and trays. In addition, studies indicate that the total energy required from harvesting to consumption is about 60% lower than for canned vegetables.
9. The combination of shelf stability without refrigeration and the light weight of a pouch make retort-pouched product idea for military use as well as for recreational camping.
10. The capability of serving single portion of foods makes the retort pouch desirable for the single market and the hospital-feeding market.
11. The ease of preparation and opening, as well as the elimination of the need for such storage space and refrigeration, makes the retort pouch desirable for use in the feeding of elderly.
12. The ability to package large quantities of foods in less bring makes the retort pouch desirable for use in institutional feeding.