When you purchase food or juice pouches, you might notice that some packages appear swollen or puffed up. This phenomenon, often referred to as bloated packaging, can be concerning. Generally, there is a warning written on pouches advising that if a packet is bloated, it should not be purchased.
Causes of Bloated Packaging
Bloated packaging is a clear indication that bacteria are present inside the packet. Bacteria feed on the contents of the pouch and produce gas. Since this gas cannot escape from the sealed packet, it accumulates inside, causing the pouch to bloat. This is commonly observed in vacuum sealed food puffed up due to microbial activity.
Bacteria can infiltrate food packaging in several ways:
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During Manufacturing: If the packaging machine is contaminated by bacteria, a large number of pouches can get infected, leading to bloated food packaging.
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Through Punctures: The packaging may get punctured due to rough handling or during transportation. Such damage exposes the food to bacteria, moisture, and air. Some retailers might reseal the pouches upon detecting a puncture. However, the bacteria may have already entered, and resealing will not allow the gas to escape, resulting in blow up packaging.
Safety Concerns
Food packaged in bloated pouches may contain harmful bacteria and, hence, is not fit for consumption. It's essential to inspect packaging for any signs of swelling, especially in vacuum sealed food puffed up, as this could indicate spoilage.
Prevention Measures
To prevent bloated packaging, it's crucial to ensure that the packaging process is hygienic and that the materials used are robust and puncture-resistant. Proper storage and handling during transportation also play a significant role in maintaining the integrity of the packaging.
At Stand Up Pouches, we prioritize food safety by offering high-quality, puncture-resistant packaging solutions. Our stand-up bags are made of multiple layers of superior quality barrier film that protect the contents from a range of environmental and physical hazards, effectively preventing issues like bloated packaging.
