Retort Pouches & Films – Frequently Asked Questions
MJB Plastics manufactures high-performance retort pouches and retort films designed for food processors and brands across the U.S. and worldwide. Our flexible, heat-resistant packaging solutions are engineered to extend shelf life, reduce shipping weight, and maintain product freshness without refrigeration. Whether you’re packaging ready-to-eat meals, sauces, seafood, or pet foods, our in-house extrusion and lamination capabilities ensure consistent quality, superior barrier protection, and full compliance with FDA and military standards. Explore the FAQs below to learn more about materials, formats, sustainability, and production details for our custom retort packaging solutions.
1. What are retort pouches?
Retort pouches are heat-resistant, flexible laminated packages designed to withstand high-temperature sterilization. They provide the same shelf stability as cans but with less weight, reduced storage space, and improved convenience.
2. What products are typically packaged in retort pouches?
Common applications include ready-to-eat meals, soups, sauces, seafood, pet foods, and military rations (MREs). Any product requiring long shelf life without refrigeration can benefit from retort packaging.
3. What materials are used in retort films?
Retort laminations typically include multiple layers such as polyester (PET) for print and heat resistance, Nylon (NY), aluminum foil for barrier protection, and polypropylene (CPP) for sealing. MJB’s laminations use in-house manufactured foil for superior barrier integrity and consistency.
4. What are the benefits of retort packaging compared to cans or jars?
- Lightweight and compact– reduces shipping and storage costs
- Faster heat penetration– shorter sterilization time, preserving flavor and texture
- Customizable shapes and sizes– for improved shelf appeal
- Eco-friendly options– lower carbon footprint compared to metal cans
5. What shelf life can I expect from retort pouches?
Properly processed retort pouches can provide 12 to 24 months of shelf life depending on the product, filling method, and storage conditions.
6. Are retort pouches recyclable?
Traditional foil-based retort structures are not yet curbside recyclable. However, recyclable and mono-material retort films are in development. MJB offers sustainable alternatives upon request.
7. What are your lead times and production capabilities?
Our standard lead time is 8 weeks delivered. We operate 17 high-speed Totani pouch lines and extrude our own barrier films and foils in-house for maximum quality and consistency.
8. What sizes and formats are available?
We offer custom sizes in various formats:
- 3-side seal and stand-up pouches
- Spouted and gusseted designs
- Printed rollstock for form-fill-seal (FFS) systems
9. Can you provide pre-printed rollstock for retort applications?
Yes. We supply printed rollstock and pre-made pouches using rotogravure printing for premium print quality and heat resistance.
10. Do you meet U.S. military and FDA standards?
Yes. Our materials are FDA compliant for food contact and meet U.S. military and EU retort pouch standards. We are a trusted supplier for government shelf-stable food programs.
