About Retort Pouches
A retort pouch is a flexible, light-weight packaging alternative to a can.
The retort pouch processing method results in superior food quality and health and environmental benefits.

E-Fish-Ent offers wholesale custom processing of seafood, meats and poultry using the Retort Pouch packaging method. These commodities can be packaged in sauces, gravies and curries. Watch the video below and contact us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (CLICK QUESTION TO JUMP DOWN TO ANSWER)

• Are retort pouches safe?
• Who can use a retort pouch?
• How do I store retort pouches?
• Do I need to refrigerate the pouch?
• How long can I keep a retort pouch?
• How do I open the retort pouch?
• How do I prepare the contents of a retort pouch?
• Is the food already in a retort pouch already cooked?
• How does does food from a retort pouch taste?
  

Q: Are retort pouches safe?

Very. There are strict CFIA and US FDA (Food & Drug Administration) guidelines and procedures throughout the entire production process to ensure we meet or exceed quality and safety standards. Our products are processed in a federally inspected plant that undergoes rigorous audits to ensure all compliances are met. The retort cooking process uses extremely hot steam which sanitizes the pouches and cooks all contents thoroughly, without over-cooking. The pouches are then individually inspected to make sure there are no flaws or defects.

Q: Who can use a retort pouch?

Anyone. They are especially great for anything that requires low-weight and flexible portability, such as airlines, trains, vending machines, mobile movie caterers, gas stations, boats, remote camps, university campuses, hospitals, camping goods stores, outdoor stores, gift shops, gift packs, etc.

Q: How do I store retort pouches?

Store a retort pouch the same as you would a can. Ther is no need to refrigerate them. Keep pouches in your cupboards or pantry until it is time to use them. After the pouch has been opened, the food contents will need to be refrigerated, as no preservatives are used.

Q: Do I need to refrigerate the pouch?

No, you do not need to refrigerate the pouch until has been opened. Once it has been opened, then the contents must be refrigerated, as the processing method is preservative-free.

Q: How long can I keep a retort pouch?

Retort pouches are a shelf-stable, long-life product. This means that they can be kept on the shelf (no need for refrigeration) for at least 5 years.

Q: How do I open the retort pouch?

Open the retort pouch with the easy-to-use tear notches on the sides. Scissors are also an option to cut open the pouch if you prefer. Certainly no need to use a can opener! This makes retort pouches very convenient for work, school, camping, travelling - anywhere on the go!

Q: How do I prepare the contents of a retort pouch?

Easily and conveniently. Please check with pouch instructions to confirm which method is best. The pouches can be placed in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes. Be careful to remove the pouch from the boiling water using tongs, or other utensils. Do NOT stick your hand in the pot to remove the pouch. You can also microwave the food in its pouch. Please check for heating times listed on the pouch (not all are microwave-able) or you can also remove the contents from the pouch prior to heating, place on a plate/bowl and microwave or use stovetop until heated. Some products, such as tuna or salmon, may not need to be heated at all if you choose to use them in salads, wraps, etc. Remember, the contents of the pouch are already cooked, preparing them simply means to reheat them.

Q: Is the food already in a retort pouch already cooked?

Yes. The food is fully cooked; you only need to reheat it.

Q: How does does food from a retort pouch taste?

Great. Pouches are cooked for less time than cans, so the contents keep its natural flavour, texture and nutritional value.