Zipper, spout or valve: choosing the extras on a pouch

Two pouches made from the same laminate can behave very differently in a customer's hands. The difference is in the features added at the pouching stage. Each one solves a particular problem, and each adds a little cost, so it is worth choosing them on purpose.

For packs that are opened more than once

• Zipper. A press-to-close strip across the top lets the pouch be resealed. It suits anything used a little at a time: dry fruit, snacks, pulses, cereals.
• Spout and cap. A welded spout turns a pouch into a light, unbreakable alternative to a bottle for liquids and pastes. It pours cleanly and closes again.

For packs that are opened once

• Tear notch. A small cut in the side seal gives the customer a place to start tearing, so no scissors are needed.
• Perforation. A tear line between pouches in a string lets a shopkeeper hang a strip and sell it one pouch at a time. It is the standard pack for agarbatti.

For the shelf and the peg

• Bottom gusset. A fold in the base lets a pouch stand upright and face the shopper.
• Euro punch or round punch. A hole in the header lets the pack hang on a peg hook, which is how most stationery and electrical accessories are sold.
• D-cut or loop handle. A punched or attached handle for heavier packs and carry bags.
• Window. A clear, unprinted panel that lets the product sell itself.

For the product itself

• Degassing valve. Freshly roasted coffee gives off gas. A one-way valve lets it out without letting air in, so the pouch does not swell and the coffee stays fresh.