Types of Stand Up Pouches

black stand up pouchStand up pouches offer flexible packaging options for the food packaging industry, making them a popular option in the market today. Instead of traditional box shipping, which can cost more and fails to optimize space, stand up pouches provide an inexpensive, convenient solution for both manufacturers and consumers. Before using stand up pouches or stand up bags, you should consider the following questions:
1. What variables should be considered when choosing the right packaging?
In addition to budget, packaging machinery and materials, product weight, size, width, and height should all be considered when selecting the right packaging. These variables will help you collaborate effectively with a packaging vendor to find the most suitable packaging solution for your needs, budget, and packaging line.
2. What is the size, width, and height of the products?
Measure the size, width, and height of your products. Understanding these dimensions will allow you to choose packaging options that can accommodate the specific size requirements and provide optimal protection for your items.
3. What is the weight of the products?
Take into account the weight of your products. This is an essential factor in selecting packaging materials that can adequately support and protect the items during storage and transportation.
4. What is the current packaging machinery and materials being used?
Assess the packaging machinery and materials you currently have. Consider their capabilities, limitations, and compatibility with different types of packaging. This will help determine if any adjustments or upgrades are needed.
5. What is the budget for packaging?
To choose the right type of packaging, it is important to consider your budget. Determine how much you are willing to spend on packaging materials and services.
There are certainly many benefits that come from the use of stand up pouches. They are highly customizable, optimize storage and display space, are cost-effective and eco-friendly, and create attractive packaging that appeals to consumers.

Stand Up Pouches Styles

Apart from their versatility in packaging needs, stand-up pouches also provide a strong shelf presence that differentiates your products from those of your competitors. It is important to know the three basic types of stand up pouches in order to optimize your merchandising and marketing initiatives. The main difference between the styles of pouch design lies in the bottom (or the gusset) of the bag.
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Doyen stand up pouchesDoyen Stand Up Pouches

The Doyen style of stand-up pouch – also called Round Bottom or Doypack – is the most common type of design. These bags feature a U-shaped gusset, which means that lightweight products lie on a stable base and can stand upright without the danger of tipping or falling over. In general, Doyen pouches are a good fit for products that weigh less than one pound. Recommended products to package in the Doyen style include:
  • Small snacks (such as children’s snacks)
  • Spices
  • Small grains

K-seal stand up pouchesK-Seal

This is the preferred design for products that weigh between one and five pounds. The design is called a “K-seal” because the seals on the gusset resemble the letter K. The K-seal design holds a higher volume of product at the bottom. This design also mitigates the risk of punctures or tears, since the sides of the package are constructed to cave in at 30-degree angles. The best products for K-seal pouches include:
  • Candies
  • Dry mixes
  • Snack foods

Corner bottom stand up pouchesCorner Bottom

The Corner Bottom – also called Plow Bottom or Folded Bottom – is the sturdiest of the pouch designs. It is recommended for products that weigh five pounds or more. Since the products are heavier, there are no seals in the bag’s gusset. The product is flush with the gusset, and lies uniformly at the bottom. Instead, seals are placed at the sides or top of the pouch—for example, a tear-off seal on the top. Recommended products for the corner bottom design include:
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Flour
  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Grain
  • Other granular products

Benefits of Custom Stand Up Pouches

With many years of experience in the food packaging sector, Econo-Pak enjoys a clear understanding of the needs of both industries and consumers. Econo-Pak offers a wide selection of stand up pouches, which can provide the following benefits to the customer:
  • A higher level of protection from external contamination
  • Greater flexibility in package customization (colors, materials, finishes, etc.)
  • A variety of available display options (hanging holes, bottom gussets)
  • Eco-friendly options (such as rice-paper designs)
  • Greater aesthetic appeal

Let's start scaling.

Is your demand outpacing your ability to package your own product? Then consider outsourcing with Econo-Pak.

With over 40 years of experience working with both small brands and Fortune 500 companies, we are capable of handling your specific dry food product.

Get in touch with our team for a fixed-price quote for your project.

Common Stand Up Pouches Questions

What types of products can be packaged in flexible pouches?

Flexible pouches can be used for packaging a wide range of products, including but not limited to granola, energy drinks, and other food items. Their versatility allows them to accommodate various sizes and shapes, making them suitable for packaging different types of goods. Econo-Pak can help you pack your dry food product into a stand up pouch.

What specific advantages do flexible pouches offer?

Flexible pouches offer several advantages. They are resealable, allowing for easy opening and closing of the packaging, ensuring the freshness and longevity of the product. They are also cost-effective, being cheaper than glass, metal, and cardboard containers. Additionally, flexible pouches are highly customizable, allowing for attractive packaging designs that appeal to consumers. They optimize storage and display space, making them a convenient choice for both manufacturers and consumers.

What is the environmental impact of flexible pouches?

Flexible pouches have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to alternative packaging materials like glass, metal, and cardboard containers. This is because the production of flexible pouches requires less energy and resources, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, flexible pouches take up less space in landfills due to their compact design, further minimizing their environmental impact.

What are the advantages of flexible pouches over glass, metal, and cardboard containers?

Flexible pouches offer several advantages over glass, metal, and cardboard containers. They are cheaper, resealable, and have a lower carbon footprint. Unlike glass, metal, or cardboard, flexible pouches provide the convenience of being resealable, allowing consumers to easily open and close the packaging without the need for additional containers or closures. Additionally, flexible pouches have a much lower carbon footprint compared to glass, metal, or cardboard containers, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

What should I ask the packaging vendor during the selection process?

When selecting a packaging vendor for flexible pouches, it is important to ask the right questions to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are some key inquiries to consider during the selection process:

1. Can you provide details about the different types of flexible pouches available? Ask for information on the various options they offer and how each type suits different products.

2. How will the packaging options align with my specific business and products? Inquire about the factors that are important to consider, such as budget, packaging machinery and materials, as well as the weight, size, width, and height of your products.

3. Do you have any relevant educational resources? Request in-depth blog posts, white papers, or informational materials specifically related to the type of pouches you are interested in. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of the packaging options.

4. Can you analyze my current packaging line? Request a free analysis of your packaging line, preferably in-person, to allow the vendor to assess your existing materials, machinery, and process. This will enable them to provide a more tailored and accurate recommendation.

5. What is your proposal? After evaluating potential vendors, ask each one to provide a detailed proposal outlining the packaging solutions they suggest. Review these proposals thoroughly with your team and analyze them against your specific needs and preferences.

6. Can you provide references or case studies from past clients? Ask for testimonials, references, or case studies from previous clients who have used their packaging services. This will give you insights into their track record and customer satisfaction.

7. What level of customer service can I expect? Inquire about their customer service practices and support channels, ensuring that they are responsive and able to address any concerns or issues that may arise.

8. How are lead times, shipping, returns, and service times handled? Clarify their policies on lead times for production, shipping arrangements, return procedures, and service response times. Understanding these elements will help ensure a smooth and efficient packaging process.

Remember, if possible, it is recommended to choose a local provider to facilitate better communication and support. If a local option is not available, be sure to discuss important topics such as communication channels, response times, and other essential considerations according to your company’s needs.

What are three side seal pouches commonly used for?

Three side seal pouches are widely utilized for packaging a variety of products, including beef jerky, spices, pet food, cannabis, as well as other edible and non-edible items. Notably, these pouches can be designed with convenient features like hang holes and resealable zippers, similar to those often found on stand up pouches.

How are three side seal pouches sealed?

Three side seal pouches are sealed by using two sheets of material, typically consisting of a combination of metal foil and clear plastic. Alternatively, paper can also be used. The two sheets are placed on top of each other and then securely sealed together using heat. This sealing process occurs on three sides of the pouch, leaving one side open for filling the pouch with the desired contents.

What are pillow pouches and how are they commonly used?

Pillow pouches, also known as pillow packs, are a widely used type of flexible packaging in the market. They have been around for decades and are commonly utilized for packaging various smaller servings of food products.

Pillow pouches are particularly popular in the food industry, where they are frequently employed for packaging snack foods like potato chips, crackers, single-serving coffee, candy, and other similar items. These pouches are designed to conveniently hold and protect the contents while providing easy access for consumers.

Known for their affordability and simplicity, pillow pouches have become a staple in many households around the world. They are available in two varieties: resealable and non-resealable. The resealable option allows for repeated opening and closing, ensuring the freshness and longevity of perishable products inside. On the other hand, non-resealable pillow pouches offer a one-time seal and are commonly used for products meant to be consumed in a single serving.

Due to their durability and cost-effectiveness, pillow pouches have stood the test of time and remain a practical choice for businesses in the food industry, especially those involved in snack food packaging.

What are gusseted pouches and how do they differ from stand-up pouches?

Gusseted pouches are a type of packaging that shares similarities with stand-up pouches but with a few key differences. These pouches have semi-oval shaped indents on both sides, creating a square or rectangular base. This unique design allows gusseted pouches to stand upright, although in a different way compared to traditional stand-up pouches. Additionally, the tops of gusseted pouches often have a distinct resealability feature.

There are two main types of gusseted pouches: side gusseted pouches and bottom gusseted pouches. Side gusseted pouches are typically used for products like coffee and have flat panels on the front and back, with the gussets on the left and right sides. On the other hand, bottom gusseted pouches are generally larger and can accommodate larger quantities of products. These pouches differ from side gusseted ones as they only have a single gusset at the bottom, providing more flexibility in terms of shape and size possibilities.

In summary, gusseted pouches are a variation of stand-up pouches characterized by semi-oval shaped indents on both sides. They can stand upright and offer different resealability options. Side gusseted pouches have flat panels on the front and back with gussets on the sides, while bottom gusseted pouches have a single gusset at the bottom, allowing for more design possibilities.

What are the different types of gusseted pouches?

Gusseted pouches refer to a type of packaging that shares similarities with stand up pouches. However, gusseted pouches have semi-oval shaped indents on both sides, creating a square or rectangular base. This unique design allows them to stand up, but in a different manner compared to traditional stand-up pouches.

In terms of resealability, gusseted pouches often feature a distinct closure method. The tops of the bags are pushed together and folded repeatedly until they reach a section with adhesive or sticky material. This fold sticks to the glue, creating a secure seal that can only be opened by the customer. When the seal is broken and unfolded, two tabs can be revealed from the sides at the top of the pouch. These tabs can be utilized to reclose the pouch by pushing them over the fold, ensuring it remains sealed between uses.

Additionally, some gusseted pouches incorporate package valves, which are small circular plastic valves. These valves serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they allow oxygen and scent to escape from the pouch, preventing air from entering and keeping the enclosed product fresh. Secondly, these valves enable the consumer to experience the aroma of the product, enhancing their sensory experience.

Package valves are commonly found in gusseted pouches used for packaging coffee. However, they are also utilized in various other food packaging applications. This demonstrates their versatility and effectiveness in maintaining product freshness while providing an appealing scent experience for customers.

The Econo-Pak Packaging Difference

As the premier food re-packager in North America, we are committed to providing innovative packaging solutions and the highest quality products and services to all of our customers. If you would like to learn more about our packaging services, please request a quote or contact us today.