The Comparative Performance of Flexible Packages and Metal Cans

Abstract : This study is conducted to determine the comparative resistance to damage from rough handling abuse of flexible packages and metal cans. Flexible packages made from two laminated materials and standard metal cans of heat-processed food items are evaluated. Two food types, pumpable and semi-solid, are used to determine the effect of product consistency on failure rates. Following vibration and drop tests of case lots of the two types of packages, there is no significant difference in the failure rates of the flexible packages and metal cans. The overall failure rate of the flexible packages is slightly lower than that of the metal cans, and a higher failure rate occurs in both package types when filled with a pumpable product than when filled with a semi-solid product.