TCL creates first-of-its kind printed, stand-up, ovenable pouch

TCL Packaging (Telford, UK), a printer and converter of packaging films, has launched an industry-first printed, stand-up, ovenable pouch for a new line of frozen, fish-based cook-in-the-bag meals that can be found at UK-based supermarket Asda. The printed Doypack took one year to develop and is suitable for microwave and conventional oven cooking up to 200°C. The pouch can also be stored as frozen. 

The Doypack, which was developed in-house, is constructed from PET to allow rigidity and stability while cooking with no loss in performance. The stand-up pouch format is particularly suitable for microwave ovens as it fits easily inside and can be safely handled when the contents are hot and poured out for serving.

The product has been fully certified by Smithers Pira for food safety up to 220°C, 450°F Gas 7 and exceeds requirements of current EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004. This covers chemical migration from all materials and articles in contact with food.

Production employs the newest ovenable inks and uses a new pouch-making conversion process which facilitates exceptionally strong seals, aided by high lamination bond strength. The pack is also easy to handle during the packing process because of its anti-slip properties.

“This is a technically complex and innovative product that we expect to transform how certain foods are packed,” said Markus Jarvstrom, Technical Director. “The performance of both pack and print at temperature for both cooking from scratch and reheating has been extensively tested throughout development.”

“This new product offers a real alternative for products such as sauces, ready meals and soups currently sold in rigid plastic and glass packs. It reduces packaging and waste and is recyclable at appropriate facilities”