Comparison of three basic packaging styles: a sealed bag with three sides sealed, a sealed bag with four sides sealed, and a stand-up gusseted bag.

All three pouches are made on a Horizontal Form, Fill, and Seal machine (HFFS). 3 & 4-sided sealed pouches encompass everything from a sugar packet, to a single serve drink/supplement mix, up to a dip mix or gravy pouch.

Stand-up gusset pouch (SUP) is exactly as it sounds. These are made to stand up and self display while reducing the amount of packaging materials needed. These are very popular in the baking mix and the multi serve drink mix world. Sizing can range from a 4oz fill to around a 2 pound fill depending on the product. They can also have a zipper closure to keep product freshness and integrity.

Instruction to start with film or roll stock from the printer

This sheet comes on a roll and is universally referred to as "film or roll stock". The alternative is pre-made bags, which we have the capabilities to do, however film or roll stock is the most cost effective way. Pre-made bags require higher minimums, in most situations the reduction in cost will usually make up for it.

Diagram showing how to fold and seal a foil or roll stock bag. The top section illustrates folding the long side, while the bottom section shows folding and plowing stand-up gussets.

Film or roll stock is formed in the machine. 3 & 4 side pouches are folded over while SUPs are plowed on the bottom to give them their signature "stand-up" feature.

A step-by-step diagram showing the process of preparing a product in three stages: cut into single packs and pouch formed, opened for filling, filled and sealed.

This is where the HFFS machine gets it's name. The film will get slit and the sides will be sealed to form the pouch. After that it will go to a filling station and be completely sealed.

Diagram showing contract packager for secondary packaging and fulfillment, including shelving, boxes in various sizes, and a delivery truck.

Secondary package and fulfillment configurations are processed. Then put into master cases, palletized, and wrapped, becoming finished shippable goods.