Classification
A major defect when the seal width is reduced to less than 3 mm (3/32-inch).
A minor defect when the seal width has 3 mm (3/32-inch) of bonded seal present.
Identification
Misaligned seal is a seal that is not formed in a continuous, straight line.
Causes
- The seal was positioned improperly.
- The sealing bars were misaligned.
- The pouch was not placed properly within the sealing jaws.
- The vacuum packer drew the top of the retort pouch over the shape of a rigid product (i.e., salmon side) while the pouch bottom lay flat on the sealing bar.