Breathable side-gusseted pouch

The breathable side-gusseted pouch offers a transparent format that shapes itself around the fill for packing fresh vegetables and fruit. For washed, peeled or cut produce, the gas exchange of the pack must be matched to the respiration of the contents and to storage. The side gussets make room for the product, and the transparent surface allows the contents to be shown. To choose the right version, we examine the condition of the product and the actual packaging process together.

Gas exchange around fresh produce

Fresh produce continues to respire after harvesting and preparation. The gas permeability of the pouch must therefore match the needs of the specific fill. A different balance may develop for different varieties, whole and cut produce, and different fill weights. Temperature and the free space left in the pack are also part of this system. We start from these details when choosing the breathable material, and a packing trial under the planned storage conditions helps with the decision.

A side gusset for fills of varying shape

The gussets open out during filling to create the depth of the pouch. This makes it possible to match the size to the piece size and volume of the vegetables or fruit. It is worth leaving enough room in the pack so that the product does not press against the top seal and filling can be organised gently. With the right weight and distribution, an upright display can also be achieved. A trial with the real fill shows how the gussets behave and what shelf shape can be expected. With pieces that bruise easily, it is worth observing the movement of the gusset and the arrangement of the fill together.

A pack size for one usage cycle

The breathable side-gusseted pouch is a pack without a press-to-close zip. It is advisable to choose a quantity that matches the usage habits of the customer or processor. Opening the pouch changes the conditions inside, so storage and usage instructions for the product should be given a clearly visible place. Chilling, hygienic preparation and gentle handling form the process together with packaging. The pouch supports these, while a seal suited to the product must be created.

Visible produce, clear labelling

The transparent surface shows the product, so you can factor in its role when designing the artwork. We also make versions printed with your own logo and custom artwork. Alongside the gussets and the back seal, an area must be set aside for labelling that is easy to read on the filled pouch. During packing, a clean sealing band and an evenly arranged gusset help sealing; this is especially important for wet fills or fills containing small pieces.

To design a breathable side-gusseted pouch, please tell us what product goes into the pack, how it is prepared and in what quantity. Knowing the chilling and retail conditions, we can agree the material and the format. At Kollár Pakk we match the side gusset, the fill space and the look of the pack to the characteristics of the fresh produce.