Question

A flexible pouch capable of withstanding temperatures of about 120 \(^{\circ}\)C is known as __________

• A. High barrier plastic
• B. Microwave-ovenable package
• C. Retortable pouch
• D. Aseptic pouch

Hint:

Associate the word "retort" with high-temperature sterilization (like a pressure cooker). A "retortable pouch" is essentially a flexible can, designed to go through this process.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question describes a type of packaging used for in-package thermal sterilization. The temperature mentioned (120 \(^{\circ}\)C, more precisely 121 \(^{\circ}\)C or 250 \(^{\circ}\)F) is the standard temperature used in a retort or autoclave for commercial sterilization of low-acid foods.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- Retortable pouch: This is a flexible, laminated pouch designed specifically to withstand the high temperatures and pressures of the retorting (autoclaving) process. It serves as an alternative to traditional metal cans for thermally processed, shelf-stable foods.
- High barrier plastic is a property of a material (e.g., providing a barrier to oxygen or moisture), not a type of finished package. Retort pouches are made from high-barrier plastics, but this is not the name of the package itself.
- Microwave-ovenable package is designed for reheating food in a microwave and does not necessarily have the strength to withstand retort temperatures.
- Aseptic pouch is a package that is filled with a pre-sterilized product in a sterile environment. The package itself is not subjected to high heat after filling.
Step 4: Final Answer:
A flexible pouch designed to withstand sterilization temperatures of around 120 \(^{\circ}\)C in a retort is called a retortable pouch. Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.