Classification
- A major defect if the width of the continuous intact seal is reduced to less than 3 mm (3/32-inch).
- A minor defect if there is 3 mm (3/32-inch) or more of continuous intact seal.
Identification
Foreign material is trapped in the seal area. A retort pouch with contamination will have a noticeable raised area in the seal where the sealing bar has sealed over the contamination.
Causes
The seal area was contaminated during the filling stage.