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Packaging Comparison: Glass Jars or Retort Pouches?
                 

Glass Jars or Retort Pouches?

  • Icon What is the difference in packaging?
  • Icon Which packaging to choose for canning

Products for Autoclaving:

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)
9700 UAH
More details
Buy

Doy-pack RETORT 160x210x41 GREEN 130µm (for autoclave sterilization) 50 pcs.

Doy-pack RETORT 160x210x41 GREEN 130µm (for autoclave sterilization) 50 pcs.
550 UAH
More details
Buy

Autoclave lid twist off 82 mm (50 pcs)

Autoclave lid twist off 82 mm (50 pcs)
350 UAH
More details
Buy

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)
9700 UAH
More details
Buy

Doy-pack RETORT 160x210x41 GREEN 130µm (for autoclave sterilization) 50 pcs.

Doy-pack RETORT 160x210x41 GREEN 130µm (for autoclave sterilization) 50 pcs.
550 UAH
More details
Buy

Autoclave lid twist off 82 mm (50 pcs)

Autoclave lid twist off 82 mm (50 pcs)
350 UAH
More details
Buy

Watch a video about retort pouches and jars:

Which is better for canning?

Canning is a traditional way to preserve food and create delicious canned goods. But which packaging to choose: classic glass jars or retort pouches? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what retort pouches are, how they differ from traditional glass jars for canning, their pros and cons, and in which cases one or the other option is preferable.

What are Retort Pouches?

The idea of creating retort pouches emerged with the development of packaging technologies in the 20th century. They were designed as a replacement for regular tin cans. The first retort pouches were developed to supply food to the U.S. military. They were used for storing food in field conditions. After successful military use, retort pouches began to be adopted for commercial production worldwide. Today, retort pouches are actively used in the food industry, medicine, and even space programs.

What are retort pouches made of?

Retort pouches consist of several layers:
  • Outer layer (polyester) – provides strength.
  • Middle layer (aluminum foil) – protects the product from light, oxygen, and moisture.
  • Inner layer (polypropylene) – safe for food contact.
This structure allows retort pouches to withstand high temperatures and pressure, ensuring effective sterilization in an autoclave.

How to use retort pouches?

The process of canning in retort pouches differs from traditional canning in glass jars with lids. However, it allows for longer storage and more convenient transportation.

Steps:

  • Fill the pouch with products.
  • Remove excess air.
  • Seal tightly using a special sealer.
  • Sterilize in an autoclave.

Advantages and disadvantages of retort pouches

Advantages:
  • They are lightweight, making transportation convenient.
  • Take up much less space than jars.
  • Do not break, unlike glass.
  • Do not require special storage conditions.
  • Suitable for storing various products: soups, sauces, and dry mixes.
The only downside is that they are single-use and cannot be reused.

Glass jars: advantages and disadvantages

Glass jars remain a classic choice for canning. Advantages:
  • Jars are transparent – so you can always see what’s inside and how it looks.
  • Eco-friendly – do not contain plastic.
  • Can be reused multiple times.
Disadvantages: heavy, fragile, take up a lot of space.

Which is better for canning?

It all depends on your needs:
  • For home use – glass jars are convenient if you do not plan to transport products.
  • For travelers and military personnel – retort pouches are better due to their lightness and durability.
If you need packaging for an autoclave, pay attention to sterilization modes and packaging requirements.

Retort pouches for the military

Retort pouches are the best packaging for providing the military with a nutritious, balanced diet. They are lightweight, compact, and durable, making them convenient for transportation and storage in field conditions. If you want to can food for our military, we recommend choosing retort pouches.

Want to buy retort pouches or jars for canning?

Check out our assortment and choose the best solution for your kitchen!

Glass jars represent tradition, eco-friendliness, and reusability. But for trips, military supplies, or space-saving: retort pouches are the best solution. Choose your packaging according to your needs!

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