VeriPac Test systems for Infant Formula Package Testing

Considering the health and safety regulations associated with Infant formula, it is critical to ensure that the product reaches the end-user safely.?Quality control assurance and product preservation are important concerns for infant formula manufacturers. The right packaging or container is imperative for the purpose of fulfilling product freshness as well as protection from external contamination.

Even a minute leak in the package can result in oxygen ingress or microbial contamination, and conventional test methods may fail to detect such leaks. For maintaining the quality of the product through its shelf life, the sensitivity of the testing method is extremely critical. In the article, we will discuss how PTI's VeriPac technology?can efficiently leak test infant formula packages and containers – both flexible and rigid.??

Package testing of flexible packaging using PTI VeriPac FLEX-Series

PTI's VeriPac inspection techniques are non-destructive container closure integrity testing (CCIT) systems that are ideal alternative to destructive testing by eliminating subjectivity, reducing the waste and cost associated with these methods. The VeriPac test systems detect critical packaging failures reliably and reveal valuable information on the packaging process. When compared to water bath or blue dye leak test, Vacuum Decay technology has proven to provide a short return on investment.

Designed for pouches and other flexible packages, VeriPac FLEX Systems are versatile non-destructive package inspection systems. This technology utilizes ASTM (F2338) method for vacuum decay leak testing and is recognized by the FDA as a consensus standard for package integrity testing. Available in several configurations for both the leak test instrument and the test chamber capacity, VeriPac FLEX Systems can accommodate various package specifications and test sensitivity requirements.?

What makes this technology unique is the fact that it provides high levels of sensitivity, reliability and practicality in testing a wide range of flexible package formats ranging from small format sachets and stick packs, up to very large bulk size pouches and bags.?

Technology Overview

Depending on the size range of the packages, the VeriPac tester is first connected to the appropriate FLEX chamber. The two VeriPac systems paired with the FLEX chamber provide different leak detection capabilities based on the application. The integrated flexible test chamber (IFC) is intended for sachets or stick packs with low headspace. The Drawer Style test chamber (D-Series) features two standard sizes, the Small (D) or Large (DXL) depending upon the package size and specifications. Custom designs can be manufactured for large package formats and bulk products. PTI utilizes its flexible membrane that conforms to the package shape and size, eliminating any stress and damage to the film materials. Multiple packages can be tested in a single test cycle.

Benefits of VeriPac Flex system

• Flexible package micro leak detection
• Decay PERMA-Vac Technology
• ASTM Test Method F2338 and FDA Consensus Standard
• Non-destructive alternative to water bath leak test and other destructive test methods
• Testing is non-destructive allowing for increased sampling and testing frequency
• Capability to test different size pouches, stick packs or sachets without any changeover in parts or system settings.
• Deterministic, quantitative test method
• Non-destructive, non-subjective, no sample preparation
• Test multiple packages in a single test cycle
• Supports sustainable packaging and zero waste initiatives
• Simplifies the inspection and validation process
• Accurate and repeatable results

This same VeriPac vacuum decay technology can also be applied to test rigid filled containers of infant formula in both offline application and as fully automated solutions.?