TABLE I Defects for Flexible Pouches
DEFECT
CLASSIFICATION(S)
MAJ A MAJ B MINOR
Tear, hole, or open seal
410
Swollen pouch
411
Rupture of pouch when kneaded IAW the package
515
instructions /1
Not clean
613
Pouch exhibits delamination and ruptures when tested
516
Objectionable odor
517
1. Pouches exhibiting delamination in the body of the pouch will be examined for
rupturing as follows: lay the pouch on a flat surface and apply moderate downward
pressure with hands on both sides of the delaminated area. Pouches exhibiting
delamination in the seal area will be examined as follows:
a. Test for spreading of the delamination by holding the pouch between the
thumb and forefinger of each hand with the delaminated area located at the contact
point between the thumbs and forefingers. Flex the delaminated area rapidly while
exercising care not to tear the pouch with your fingernails.
b. Test for rupturing by laying the pouch on a flat surface and applying moderate
downward pressure with one hand on the product side of the delaminated area.
2. The following shall be scored as minor defects if present within 1/16 inch of the food
product edge of seal:
a. Small concave impressions or cavities indicating slight tray imperfections or
hand particulates affixed to the seal head and contact the lid and tray.
b. Small (that is, 1/32 inch or less in any direction) convex bumps or points on
the seal area indicating small imperfections on the seal head. NOTE: This anomaly is
typically visible on successive trays coming off the heat sealer.
c. Minor impressions or scorching of the top layer of the lid material on the seal
area indicating soft particulates on the seal head being "burned-off" during sealing.
NOTE: This anomaly is typically visible on successive trays coming off the heat sealer.
d. Areas of "wave-like" striations or wrinkles along the seal area indicating slight
tray imperfection, improper lid tensioning, or vacuum release prior to lid cooling/setting.
MD0718
4-17