FP - Seal Defects (Misaligned/Deformed)

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 

  1. The seal was positioned improperly.
  2. The sealing bars were misaligned.
  3. The pouch was not placed properly within the sealing jaws.
  4. 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.