Flexible pouch with integral straw

Abstract

A flexible pouch is disclosed. The flexible pouch has an exterior surface and is formed from a flexible film. The flexible pouch includes a cavity that receives and stores a fluidic material and a channel that is in fluidic communication with the cavity. The cavity generally is flexible and deformable. The flexible pouch is configured to provide an integral straw in the form of the channel. The channel generally has a rigidity which prevents wet block during an application of vacuum to the channel. The rigidity of the channel is characterized by a channel force-displacement curve determined by contacting a 3.2 millimeters (mm) probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90. The channel force-displacement curve incurs a function change at a probe displacement value that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm.

Description

[0001] FLEXIBLE POUCH WITH INTEGRAL STRAW

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present application relates generally to a flexible pouch with an integral straw.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Conventional pouches, such as a juice pouch, typically require inclusion of a separate straw for consuming a product packaged therein. The separate straw necessitates additional components, for example, a straw wrapper in which the separate straw is packaged, and an adhesive that adheres the straw wrapper to the conventional pouch for assembly of the conventional pouch. Such additional components increase a cost associated with the conventional pouch. The additional components also reduce an efficiency of assembling the conventional pouch.

[0006] Further, in some cases, the separate straw may get detached from the conventional pouch, for example, during transportation and storage. This results in a poor user experience. Conventional pouches can also include expensive and non-recyclable rigid fitments. Therefore, conventional pouches may be expensive and raise environmental concerns due to the additional components (wrappers, adhesives, non- recyclable fitments, etc.), which may be non-recyclable and are often discarded after use.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] A flexible pouch including an integral straw has been developed. The integral straw is in the form of a channel generally having a rigidity. The flexible pouch further includes a cavity that is generally flexible and capable of deformation for storing a fluidic material. The channel is in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material is movable from the cavity to the channel. The rigidity of the channel prevents wet block during an application of vacuum (e.g., suction) to the channel. The flexible pouch further includes a tear propagation positioned in alignment with the channel that allows for access to at least a portion of the channel.

[0009] The integral straw of the flexible pouch may eliminate the need to include a separate straw with the flexible pouch. Therefore, additional components (such as wrappers, adhesives, etc.) that are typically used to include the separate straw with conventional pouches may not be needed for the flexible pouch. Moreover, the tear propagation may allow the channel to be manually accessed without using any cutting tools, such as scissors. Therefore, the flexible pouch may require fewer components for its assembly and improve user experience.

[0010] As the flexible pouch includes the integral straw, no additional components (that may be non-recyclable) may be required for consuming a product packaged therein. Further, the flexible pouch may include a high polyolefin content, and hence, may be recyclable. Therefore, the flexible pouch may be environmentally friendly.

[0011] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a flexible pouch. The flexible pouch has an exterior surface and is formed from a flexible film. The flexible pouch is configured to provide an integral straw in the form of a channel. The flexible pouch is sealed around at least a periphery with a first seal. The flexible pouch includes a cavity. The cavity is within the periphery and forms a reservoir for the receipt and storage of a fluidic material. The cavity is generally flexible and capable of deformation. A cavity force-displacement curve determined by contacting a 3.2 millimeters (mm) probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the cavity according to ASTM F1306-90 includes a stiffness portion from a probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm. The stiffness portion of the cavity force-displacement curve is a function of a stiffness of the flexible film. The flexible pouch further includes the channel within the periphery and partially segregated from the cavity with a second seal. The channel is in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material is movable from the cavity to the channel. The channel generally has a rigidity. A channel force-displacement curve determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90 includes an initial portion from a first probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm and a stiffness portion from a second probe displacement value that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm. The stiffness portion of the channel forcedisplacement curve is a first function of the stiffness of the flexible film and the initial portion is a second function that is different from the first function, such that the channel force-displacement curve incurs a function change at the second probe displacement value. The rigidity of the channel forms the integral straw and prevents wet block during an application of vacuum. The flexible pouch further includes a tear propagation. The tear propagation is positioned in alignment with the channel. The tear propagation allows for access to at least a portion of the channel and movement of the fluidic material from the cavity to the channel and to a position that is exterior to the flexible pouch.

[0012] The integral straw that is the channel may have sufficient rigidity to prevent wet block during the application of vacuum (e.g., suction) thereto. The rigidity of the channel may be characterized by the initial portion of the channel force-displacement curve. Specifically, the initial portion, determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90, may characterize a deformation of a three-dimensional (3D) shape of the channel. The channel may retain its three-dimensional shape during transportation and normal use of the flexible pouch.

[0013] Further, the integral straw of the flexible pouch may eliminate the need to include a separate straw with the flexible pouch. The integral straw, or more specifically, the channel, may be accessed via the tear propagation, which may allow a user to consume or access a product packaged in the flexible pouch without using any cutting tools, such as scissors. The integral straw may also ensure that the flexible pouch is free from various issues that may arise due to inclusion of the separate straws, for example, detachment of the separate straws from the conventional pouches, which may occur during transportation and storage of the conventional pouches. Consequently, the flexible pouch may provide an improved user experience as compared to conventional pouches including separate straws.

[0014] Moreover, the integral straw may enable omission of additional components, such as wrappers, adhesives, etc., that are typically used to include the separate straws, from the flexible pouch. Therefore, the flexible pouch may require fewer components for its assembly. Additionally, the flexible pouch may be assembled using fewer operations as compared to conventional pouches, thereby potentially increasing an efficiency of assembling of the flexible pouch. The flexible pouch may therefore reduce incurred costs associated with labor, raw materials, transportation of raw materials, and assembly.

[0015] As the flexible pouch includes the integral straw, no additional components (that may be non-recyclable) may be required for consuming the product packaged therein. Further, the flexible pouch may include a high polyolefin content, and hence, may be recyclable. The flexible pouch may therefore be environmentally friendly.

[0016] In some embodiments, the initial portion of the channel force-displacement curve is substantially linear. The initial portion may be substantially linear due to the three- dimensional shape of the channel.

[0017] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a header that extends from a first edge towards the tear propagation. The header may be at least partially removed from the flexible pouch along the tear propagation to access the channel. The header may also facilitate gripping for removal thereof.

[0018] In some embodiments, the header includes at least a portion of the channel.

[0019] In some embodiments, the tear propagation includes a line of weakness, a tear notch, or a combination thereof.

[0020] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch includes a total composition of 80% or greater of polyolefin. Therefore, the flexible pouch may be recyclable and environmentally friendly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a front panel and a back panel opposite to the front panel. The flexible pouch further includes printed indicia located on the front panel, the back panel, or a combination thereof.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first seal around at least the periphery is a heat seal. The heat seal may be sufficient in size, shape, and strength to create a hermetic seal that is durable through distribution and storage of the flexible pouch.

[0023] In some embodiments, the channel is positioned distal to a central longitudinal axis of the flexible pouch. In other words, the channel may be offset from a center of the flexible pouch. In some cases, the channel may be positioned adjacent to a side edge of the flexible pouch.

[0024] In some embodiments, the channel includes a diameter in a range of 1 .27 mm to 25.4 mm. The diameter of the channel being in the range of 1.27 mm to 25.4 mm may ensure that wet block is prevented during the application of vacuum (e.g., suction) to the channel.

[0025] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a second channel. The second channel may be substantially similar to the channel that forms the integral straw. Specifically, the second channel may generally be rigid and in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material is movable from the cavity to the second channel. The second channel may be positioned distal to the channel.

[0026] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a gusset. The gusset may increase a packaging volume of the flexible pouch and provide stability by creating a face for the flexible pouch to rest on.

[0027] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a product at least partially contained in the cavity and the channel. The product may be a fluidic product.

[0028] In some embodiments, the product includes a comestible product. The flexible pouch may facilitate consumption of the comestible product via the integral straw.

[0029] In some embodiments, the flexible pouch further includes a volume from 100 ml to 250 ml. The volume of the flexible pouch being in a range from 100 ml to 250 ml may accommodate containment a comestible product.

[0030] There are several aspects of the present subject matter which may be embodied separately or together. These aspects may be employed alone or in combination with other aspects of the subject matter described herein, and the description of these aspects together is not intended to preclude the use of these aspects separately or the claiming of such aspects separately or in different combinations.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the disclosure in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] FIG. 1 A is a schematic front perspective view of a flexible pouch in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 1 B is a schematic side view of the flexible pouch in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 1 C is a schematic top view of the flexible pouch in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a graph depicting force-displacement curves for a channel and a cavity of the flexible pouch determined according to ASTM F1306-90 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of a flexible pouch in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] FIG. 4 is a graph depicting experimental results of different samples tested according to ASTM F1306-90.

[0038] The figures are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components. It will be understood, however, that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number.

[0039] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The present application describes a flexible pouch. The flexible pouch has an exterior surface and is formed from a flexible film. The flexible pouch is configured to provide an integral straw in the form of a channel. The channel is manufactured to have a consistent three-dimensional (3D) shape having rigidity or at least semi-rigidity. The flexible pouch is sealed around at least a periphery with a first seal. The flexible pouch includes a cavity. The cavity is within the periphery and forms a reservoir for the receipt and storage of a fluidic material. The cavity is generally flexible and capable of deformation.

[0041] As used herein, the term “flexible”, with respect to a film for example, refers to the film generally having a two-dimensional position (i.e., having length and width within a normal plane) that can be flexed or deformed to a three-dimensional position (i.e., having length, width and height of which at least a portion is outside of the normal plane) when a flexure force is applied and the film returns to the two-dimensional position once the flexure force is removed.

[0042] As used herein, the terms “semi-rigid” or “semi-rigidity”, with respect to a film for example, refer to the film generally having a three-dimensional position (i.e., having length, width and height of which at least a portion is outside of a normal plane) that can be flexed or deformed to a two-dimensional position (i.e., having length and width within the normal plane, that is, the film collapses into the normal plane) when a flexure force is applied and the film returns to the three-dimensional position once the flexure force is removed.

[0043] As used herein, the terms “rigid” or “rigidity”, with respect to a film for example, refer to the film generally having a three-dimensional position (i.e., having length, width and height of which at least a portion is outside of a normal plane) that cannot be flexed or deformed to a two-dimensional position (i.e., having length and width within the normal plane) when a flexure force is applied to the film. The film may flex to a different three- dimensional position and return to the three-dimensional position once the flexure force is removed. If the flexure force is high enough to force the film into or towards a two- dimensional position, return to the three-dimensional position may be irreversible.

[0044] Reference to stiffness throughout this application includes the terms flexible, semirigid or rigid. Reference to rigidity throughout this application includes the terms semirigid and rigid.

[0045] The flexible pouch further includes the channel within the periphery and partially segregated from the cavity with a second seal. The channel is in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material (i.e., product) is movable from the cavity to the channel. The channel generally has a rigidity (i.e., semi-rigid or rigid) such that the channel retains a three-dimensional shape as shown in FIGS. 1 B and 1 C. The channel 1 10 that forms the integral straw 108 has a circular shape with a first semi-circular half of the channel formed from front panel 104 and a second semi-circular half of the channel formed from back panel 106.

[0046] A channel force-displacement curve can be generated, similar to the cavity-force displacement curve, with measurements that characterize the stiffness of the channel of the flexible pouch with a numerical value. The stiffness of the channel of the flexible pouch is measured and these recorded measurements generate the channel forcedisplacement curve. The channel force-displacement curve numerical values are determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90. The channel force-displacement curve includes an initial portion from a first probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm and a stiffness portion from a second probe displacement value that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm. The stiffness portion of the channel force-displacement curve is a first function of the stiffness of the flexible film and the initial portion is a second function that is different from the first function, such that the channel force-displacement curve incurs a function change at the second probe displacement value. The function change represents the force that causes the first and the second semi-circular halves of the channel to collapse onto each other (i.e., front panel 104 and back panel 106 touch each other or where channel 110 is deformed from a three-dimensional shape to a two- dimensional shape (2D)). The channel, when displaced into the two-dimensional shape, returns to the three-dimensional shape when the force of the probe is removed from the channel; that is, the channel retains its three-dimensional shape and demonstrates a degree of rigidity or semi-rigidity.

[0047] The integral straw that is the channel has sufficient rigidity to prevent wet block (i.e., channel collapsing onto itself) during the application of vacuum (e.g., suction) thereto. The rigidity of the channel may be characterized by the initial portion of the channel force-displacement curve. Specifically, the initial portion, determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90, may characterize a deformation of a three-dimensional (3D) shape of the channel. The channel may retain its three-dimensional shape during transportation and normal use of the flexible pouch.

[0048] The flexible pouch further includes a tear propagation. The tear propagation is positioned in alignment with the channel. The tear propagation allows for access to at least a portion of the channel and movement of the fluidic material from the cavity to the channel and to a position that is exterior to the flexible pouch.

[0049] Further, the integral straw of the flexible pouch may eliminate the need to include a separate straw with the flexible pouch. The integral straw, or more specifically, the channel, may be accessed via the tear propagation, which may allow a user to consume or access a product packaged in the flexible pouch without using any cutting tools, such as scissors. The integral straw may also ensure that the flexible pouch is free from various issues that may arise due to inclusion of the separate straw, for example, detachment of the separate straw from the conventional pouches, which may occur during transportation and storage of the conventional pouches. Consequently, the flexible pouch may provide an improved user experience as compared to conventional pouches including separate straws.

[0050] Moreover, the integral straw may enable omission of additional components, such as wrappers, adhesives, etc., that are typically used to include the separate straws, from the flexible pouch. Therefore, the flexible pouch may require fewer components for its assembly. Additionally, the flexible pouch may be assembled using fewer operations as compared to conventional pouches, thereby potentially increasing an efficiency of assembling of the flexible pouch. The flexible pouch may therefore reduce incurred costs associated with labor, raw materials, transportation of raw materials, and assembly.

[0051] As the flexible pouch includes the integral straw, no additional components (that may be non-recyclable) may be required for consuming the product packaged therein. Further, the flexible pouch may include a high polyolefin content, and hence, may be recyclable. The flexible pouch may therefore be environmentally friendly.

[0052] As used herein, the term “film” refers to a material with a very high ratio of a length or a width to a thickness. A film has two major surfaces defined by a length and a width. Films typically have good flexibility and can be used for a wide variety of applications, including flexible packaging. Films may also have thickness and / or material composition such that they are flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid. Films may be described as monolayer or multilayer.

[0053] The term “exterior surface” refers to a surface of a film that does not have contact with another film or layer surface.

[0054] As used herein, the term “tear propagation” refers to a path along which at least a portion of a pouch may be torn or separated from the pouch. The path may be linear (i.e., straight) or curved. Tear propagation may include, for example, a line of weakness, a tear notch, a tear tab, and the like. The term “line of weakness” refers to a continuous or non-continuous series of holes, vents, slits, slots, perforations, notches, punctures, orifices, openings, inlets, channels, etc., through a flexible film. The line of weakness may have varying depths. For example, the depth of a line of weakness may extend from about 50% to about 95% of the thickness of a flexible film. The line of weakness may be formed by any suitable scoring processes, such as, laser scoring, mechanical scoring, and the like. As used herein, the term “polyolefin” refers to homopolymers, copolymers, including, e.g., bipolymers, terpolymers, etc., having a methylene linkage between monomer units which may be formed by any method known to those skilled in the art. Examples of polyolefins include polyethylene (PE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), ultra low-density polyethylene (ULDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ultra high-density polyethylene (UHDPE), ethylene / propylene copolymers, polypropylene (PP), propylene / ethylene copolymer, polyisoprene, polybutylene, polybutene, poly-3-methylbutene-1 , poly-4-methylpentene-1 , ionomers, polyethylenes comprising ethylene / a-olefin which are copolymers of ethylene with one or more a-olefins (alpha-olefins) such as butene-1 , hexene-1 , octene-1 , or the like as a comonomer, and the like.

[0055] As used herein, the terms “polyethylene,” “polyethylene polymer,” and “PE” refer to polymers that include an ethylene linkage. Polyethylenes may be homopolymers, copolymers, or interpolymers. Polyethylene copolymers or interpolymers may include other types of polymers (i.e., non-polyethylene polymers). Polyethylenes may have functional groups incorporated by grafting or other means. Polyethylenes include, but are not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), ultra-low density polyethylene (ULDPE), and high- density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0056] As used herein, the terms “polypropylene” and “polypropylene polymer” refer to polymers that are derived from monomers of propylene. Polypropylenes may be homopolymers, copolymers, or interpolymers. Polypropylene copolymers or interpolymers may include other types of polymers (i.e., non-polypropylene polymers). Propylene linkage can be represented by the general formula: [CH2 — CH(CH3)]n. Polypropylenes may have functional groups incorporated by grafting or other means. Polypropylenes include, but are not limited to, propylene-ethylene copolymers, ethylenepropylene copolymers, and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylenes (MAHgPP).

[0057] As used herein, the terms “ethylene / vinyl alcohol copolymer” or “EVOH” refers to polymerized ethylene vinyl alcohol. Ethylene / vinyl alcohol copolymers include saponified (or hydrolyzed) ethylene / vinyl acrylate copolymers and refer to a vinyl alcohol copolymer having an ethylene comonomer prepared by, for example, hydrolysis of vinyl acrylate copolymers or by chemical reactions with vinyl alcohol.

[0058] As used herein, the term “polyester,” “polyethylene terephthalate,” or “PET” refers to a homopolymer or copolymer having an ester linkage between monomer units. Polyesters may include a homopolymer or copolymer of alkyl-aromatic esters, including but not limited to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), polyethylene furanoate (PEF), glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT); a copolymer of terephthalate and isophthalate including but not limited to polyethylene terephthalate / isophthalate copolymer, such as isophthalic acid (IPA) (modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETI)); a homopolymer or copolymer of aliphatic esters including but not limited to polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA); polyhydroxyalkonates including but not limited to polyhydroxypropionate, poly(3-(PH3B), poly(3-hydroxyvalerate) (PH3V), poly(4-hydroxybutyrate) (PH4B), poly(4- hydroxyvalerate) (PH4V), poly(5-hydroxyvalerate) (PH5V), poly(6-hydroxydodecanoate) (PH6D); and blends of any of these materials.

[0059] As used herein, the term “oriented” refers to a monolayer or multilayer film, sheet, or web which has been elongated in at least one of a machine direction or a transverse / cross direction. Non-limiting examples of such procedures include the single bubble blown film extrusion process and the slot case sheet extrusion process with subsequent stretching, for example, by tentering, to provide orientation. Another example of such procedure is the trapped bubble or double bubble process. In the trapped bubble or double bubble process, an extruded primary tube leaving the tubular extrusion die is cooled, collapsed, and then oriented by reheating, reinflating to form a secondary bubble and recooling. Transverse direction orientation may be accomplished by inflation, radially expanding the heated film tube. Machine direction orientation may be accomplished by the use of nip rolls rotating at different speeds, pulling, or drawing the film tube in the machine direction. The combination of elongation at elevated temperature followed by cooling causes an alignment of the polymer chains to a more parallel configuration, thereby improving the mechanical properties of the film, sheet, web, package, or otherwise. Upon subsequent heating of an unrestrained, unannealed, oriented article to its orientation temperature, heat-shrinkage (as measured in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Test Method D2732, “Standard Test Method for Unrestrained Linear Thermal Shrinkage of Plastic Film and Sheeting”) may be produced. Heat-shrinkage may be reduced if the oriented article is annealed or heat-set by heating to an elevated temperature, preferably to an elevated temperature which is above the glass transition temperature and below the crystalline melting point of the polymer comprising the article. This reheating / annealing / heat-setting step also provides a polymeric web of uniform flat width. The polymeric web may be annealed (i.e., heated to an elevated temperature) either in-line with (and subsequent to) or off-line from (in a separate process) the orientation process. As used herein, the prefix “O,” when used in conjunction with a material, means that a layer or film of the material is oriented in either the machine direction or the transverse direction. For example, “OPE” refers to a layer or film oriented in the machine direction or the transverse direction and including polyethylene.

[0060] As used herein, the term “polylactic acid polymer” or “PLA” refers to a polymer made from lactic acid and having a backbone of [-C(CH3)HC(=O)O-]n.

[0061] As used herein, the term “metalized polyester” or “metPET” refers a polyester that is metallized with a metal.

[0062] As used herein, the term “heat seal” refers to a fusion bond between inner surfaces of a flexible film (i.e., formed from a single layer or multiple layers) without loss of integrity of the flexible film.

[0063] As used herein, the term “printed indicia” refers to a marking, image, text, and / or symbol located on an exterior surface of a flexible film. The printed indicia can be placed on the exterior surface by any suitable means (e.g., ink printing, laser printing, etc.). The indicia can include, e.g., a printed message or instructions, list of ingredients (active and inactive), weight of product, manufacturer name and address, manufacturer trademark, etc.

[0064] As used herein, the term “gusset” refers to a flexible pouch that includes at least three folds in the flexible film defining one or more a central folds that extend inwardly toward the interior of the product volume and two folds disposed on opposite sides of the central fold, the two folds extending outwardly away from the central fold. Gussets are also variously known as tucks, pleats, joints, couplings, and gatherings. Gussets can be arranged to provide stability in a flexible pouch, for example, by creating a face for the flexible pouch to rest on. Gussets can also be used to increase the volume of the flexible pouch, for example by creating a three-dimensional shape rather than a two-dimensional shape from a flexible material. A flexible pouch can include one or more gussets disposed at any portion of the flexible pouch, such as the bottom, top, and / or one or more sides of the flexible pouch.

[0065] As used herein, the term “ASTM F1306-90” refers to “Standard Test Method for Slow Rate Penetration Resistance of Flexible Barrier Films and Laminates” as defined by ASTM International.

[0066] As used herein, the term “wet block” refers to a phenomenon in which a flow of a fluidic material through a conduit, tube, pipe, channel, straw, and the like, is blocked or significantly restricted.

[0067] FIGS. 1 A, 1 B and 1 C show various schematic views of a flexible pouch 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 1A shows a schematic front perspective view of flexible pouch 100, FIG. 1 B shows a schematic side view of flexible pouch 100, and FIG. 1 C shows a schematic top view of flexible pouch 100.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 1 A, 1 B, and 1 C, flexible pouch 100 has an exterior surface 102 and is formed from a flexible film. The flexible film may include, but is not limited to, a foil-based structure, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, metalized polyester (metPET), a shrinkable film, barrier coated (e.g., metalized, AIOx or SiOx coatings) oriented films, non-barrier coated oriented films, PET laminations, nylon, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), and any combination of the aforementioned materials. In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may be formed from two different flexible films.

[0069] Flexible pouch 100 is sealed around at least a periphery 1 12 with a first seal 1 14 (schematically shown by hatching in FIG. 1 A). First seal 114 may create a hermetic seal that is durable through distribution and storage of flexible pouch 100. In some embodiments, first seal 114 around at least periphery 112 may be a heat seal. Flexible pouch 100 includes a cavity 120. Cavity 1 0 is within periphery 112 and forms a reservoir for the receipt and storage of a fluidic material. Cavity 120 is generally flexible and capable of deformation.

[0070] Flexible pouch 100 is configured to provide an integral straw 108 in the form of a channel 1 10. Specifically, flexible pouch 100 includes channel 110 within periphery 1 12 and partially segregated from cavity 120 with a second seal 1 16. In some embodiments, second seal 116 may be a heat seal.

[0071] Channel 1 10 is in fluidic communication with cavity 120 such that the fluidic material is movable from cavity 120 to channel 110. Further, channel 110 generally has a rigidity. In other words, channel 110 may be capable of withstanding a non-negligible amount of force before collapsing due solely to its own structure (and not aided by pressure of any gas or fluid trapped in channel 1 10). Channel 110 therefore has a rigid or semi-rigid three-dimensional shape or structure.

[0072] The rigidity of channel 110 forms integral straw 108 and prevents wet block during an application of vacuum (e.g., suction). Specifically, the rigidity of channel 110 prevents wet block during the application of vacuum to channel 1 10 and allows the fluidic material to move from cavity 120 to channel 110 and to a position that is exterior to flexible pouch 100.

[0073] FIG. 2 shows a graph 200 depicting force-displacement curves for channel 1 10 and cavity 120 determined according to ASTM F1306-90 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1A-2, a cavity force-displacement curve 210 (dot-dashed) determined by contacting a 3.2 mm (i.e., about 0.125 inches) probe with exterior surface 102 in alignment with cavity 120 according to ASTM F1306-90 includes a stiffness portion 215 from a probe displacement value 21 1 that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm (i.e., about 0.029 inches). In graph 200, probe displacement value 21 1 is about 0.406 mm (i.e., about 0.016 inches). Cavity force-displacement curve 210 may essentially be stiffness portion 215. Stiffness portion 215 of cavity force-displacement curve 210 is a function of a stiffness of the flexible film. Specifically, stiffness portion 215 of cavity force-displacement curve 210 may be a polynomial function characterizing the stiffness of the flexible film. Cavity force-displacement curve 210 may depict the inability of cavity 120 to oppose the force applied by the 3.2 mm probe, and therefore may represent the general flexibility and deformability of cavity 120.

[0075] Further, a channel force-displacement curve 220 (solid) determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with exterior surface 102 in alignment with channel 1 10 according to ASTM F1306-90 includes an initial portion 225 from a first probe displacement value 221 that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm (i.e., about 0.029 inches) and a stiffness portion 227 from a second probe displacement value 222 that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm (i.e., about 0.03 inch). In graph 200, first probe displacement value 221 is about 0.305 mm (i.e., about 0.012 inches), and second probe displacement value 222 is about 2.285 mm (i.e., about 0.09 inches).

[0076] Stiffness portion 227 of channel force-displacement curve 220 is a first function of the stiffness of the flexible film and initial portion 225 is a second function that is different from the first function, such that channel force-displacement curve 220 incurs a function change at second probe displacement value 222.

[0077] Initial portion 225 may characterize the rigid three-dimensional shape of channel 1 10. Specifically, initial portion 225 may depict a resistance to deformation by channel 1 10 due to the force applied by the 3.2 mm probe. On the other hand, stiffness portion 227 may characterize the stiffness of the flexible film. The first function (of stiffness portion 227) may be a first polynomial function and the second function (of initial portion 225) may be a second polynomial function different from the first polynomial function.

[0078] Due to the rigid three-dimensional shape of channel 110, a force required to compress channel 1 10 may linearly increase up to second probe displacement value 222. Consequently, initial portion 225 of channel force-displacement curve 220 may be substantially linear. At second probe displacement value 222, walls (formed from the flexible film) of channel 1 10 may collapse onto each other. Therefore, above second probe displacement value 222, a force required to compress the collapsed walls of channel 1 10 may increase depending on stiffness characteristics of the flexible film.

[0079] In some embodiments, channel 1 10 may have a substantially circular crosssection and include a diameter 110D (shown in FIG. 1 C). In some embodiments, diameter 110D of channel 110 may be in a range of 1 .27 mm to 25.4 mm. Diameter 110D of channel 110 being in the range of 1.27 mm to 25.4 mm may ensure that wet block is prevented during the application of vacuum to channel 110. In some cases, second probe displacement value 222 may correspond to diameter 110D of channel 1 10. In some other embodiments, channel 1 10 may have a substantially semi-circular cross-section.

[0080] Referring back to FIGS. 1 A-1 C, in some embodiments, channel 110 may be positioned distal to a central longitudinal axis 101 of flexible pouch 100. Central longitudinal axis 101 may extend along a length of flexible pouch 100 through a central point (or a mid-point) of flexible pouch 100 with respect to its width. In other words, in some embodiments, channel 1 10 may be positioned proximal to a side edge of flexible pouch 100.

[0081] It may be noted that the size and geometry of channel 1 10 may depend upon various factors and desired application attributes. For example, a height of channel 1 10 may be selected according to a size (or more specifically, a length) of flexible pouch 100. Further, channel 110 may have one or more tapered portions to reduce or eliminate spilling of the fluidic material during the application of vacuum to channel 110. Furthermore, channel 110 may be diagonally disposed, e.g., at 45 degrees with respect to central longitudinal axis 101 , across flexible pouch 100. Various other arrangements of channel 110 may be contemplated in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0082] In some alternate embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may include a plurality of channels, each of which may be substantially similar to channel 1 10. Each of the plurality of channels may be in fluidic communication with cavity 120 such that the fluidic material is movable from cavity 120 to each of the plurality of channels. Such a configuration will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 3.

[0083] Integral straw 108 of flexible pouch 100 may eliminate the need to include a separate straw with flexible pouch 1 10. Integral straw 108 may also ensure that flexible pouch 100 is free from various issues that may arise due to inclusion of the separate straw, for example, detachment of the separate straw from conventional pouches, which may occur during transportation and storage of the conventional pouches. Consequently, flexible pouch 100 may provide an improved user experience as compared to conventional pouches including separate straws. Moreover, integral straw 108 may enable omission of additional components, such as wrappers, adhesives, etc., that are typically used to include the separate straws, from flexible pouch 100. Therefore, flexible pouch 100 may require fewer components for its assembly.

[0084] Additionally, flexible pouch 100 may be assembled using fewer operations as compared to conventional pouches, thereby potentially increasing an efficiency of assembling of flexible pouch 100. Flexible pouch 100 may therefore reduce incurred costs associated with labor, raw materials, transportation of raw materials, and assembly.

[0085] Flexible pouch 100 further includes a tear propagation 1 18. The tear propagation 1 18 is positioned in alignment with channel 1 10. Tear propagation 118 allows for access to at least a portion of channel 1 10 and movement of the fluidic material from cavity 120 to channel 110 and to a position that is exterior to flexible pouch 100. Tear propagation 1 18 may allow channel 1 10 to be manually accessed without using any cutting tools, such as scissors. In some embodiments, tear propagation 1 18 may include a line of weakness, a tear notch, or a combination thereof. The line of weakness of tear propagation 1 18 may be straight or curved. Further, the tear tab of tear propagation 1 18 may be located on a top, a side, or a corner of flexible pouch 100. In some embodiments, tear propagation 1 18 may be provided by virtue of the flexible film from which flexible pouch 100 is formed. For example, tear propagation 118 may be inherent to flexible pouch 100 formed from machine-direction oriented (MDO) linear tearing films.

[0086] In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may further include a header 124 that extends from a first edge 122 towards tear propagation 1 18. First edge 122 may a top edge of flexible pouch 100. Header 124 may include at least a portion of channel 110. In other words, at least a portion of channel 110 may be positioned within header 124. Therefore, header 124 may be torn along tear propagation 118 to access channel 110. In some embodiments, tear propagation 118 may be spaced apart from first edge 122 by a length of from 10 mm to about 20 mm along central longitudinal axis 101 .

[0087] Flexible pouch 100 may include a front panel 104 and a back panel 106 (best shown in FIGS. 1 B and 1 C) opposite to front panel 104. Front panel 104 and back panel 106 of flexible pouch 100 may form exterior surface 102 of flexible pouch 100. In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may further include printed indicia 128 (schematically depicted in a block in FIG. 1A). Printed indicia 128 may be located on front panel 104, back panel 106, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 A, printed indicia 128 are located on front panel 104.

[0088] In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may further include a product 150 (schematically shown by dashed lines in FIG. 1 B) at least partially contained in cavity 120 and channel 110. In some embodiments, product 150 may include a comestible product. For example, the comestible product may include, but is not limited to, milk, juice, yogurt, applesauce, pureed food (e.g., baby food), and other fluidic comestible products. The comestible product may be siphoned from flexible pouch 100 through channel 1 10 by the application of vacuum to channel 1 10. In some embodiments, product 150 may include a non-comestible product, for example, such as motor oil, paint and so forth.

[0089] In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may include a volume including a range from 10 milliliters (ml) (0.3 ounces) to 3.8 liter (I) (1 gallon) or greater. In some embodiments, the volume may range from about 50 ml to about 500 ml and more preferably from about 100 ml to about 250 ml. For example, flexible pouch 100 may contain product 150 that includes a beverage (e.g., juice) and flexible pouch 100 may include a volume from about 100 ml to about 250 ml.

[0090] In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may further include a gusset 126. In some embodiments, gusset 126 may be positioned opposite to first edge 122. Flexible pouch 100 including gusset 126 may have improved stability and increased packaging volume.

[0091] In some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may include a total composition of 80% or greater of polyolefin. That is, flexible pouch 100 may include a total composition of 80% or greater of polyethylene, or 80 % or greater of polypropylene. Specifically, in some embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may include a total composition of 85%, of 90%, of 95%, or greater of polyethylene. In some other embodiments, flexible pouch 100 may include a total composition of 85%, of 90%, of 95%, or greater of polypropylene. Due to the high polyolefin content, flexible pouch 100 may be recyclable. Therefore, flexible pouch 100 may be environmentally friendly.

[0092] Flexible pouch 100 may be manufactured by various different methods. For example, flexible pouch 100 may be manufactured by feeding a flexible film into a pouchmaking process. The flexible film may be sealed with a first seal, thereby forming a body having a front panel and a back panel. The body may be subsequently sealed with a second seal that partitions or segregates the body into a cavity and a channel that are interconnected, or more specifically, fluidically connected. The channel may therefore include a portion of the front panel and a portion of the back panel. The channel may be drawn to include a permanent three-dimensional shape.

[0093] The channel may be drawn using any suitable drawing process, such as cold forming (e.g., vacuum forming), thermoforming, and so forth. The channel may be smooth or may have ribs or texture from being drawn.

[0094] In some cases, sealing the body with the second seal may occur simultaneously with drawing the channel. In some cases, sealing the flexible film with the first seal, sealing the body with the second seal, and drawing the channel may occur simultaneously. The method of manufacturing described above may have a high manufacturing efficiency.

[0095] FIG. 3 shows a schematic top view of a flexible pouch 100’ in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. Flexible pouch 100’ is substantially similar to flexible pouch 100 of FIGS. 1 A-1 C, with like elements designated by like reference characters. However, flexible pouch 100’ includes a plurality of channels, and therefore, a plurality of integral straws.

[0096] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, flexible pouch 100’ includes a second channel 110’. Second channel 1 10’ may be in addition to channel 1 10. Second channel 1 10’ may also be in fluidic communication with cavity 120 such that the fluidic material is movable from cavity 120 to second channel 110’.

[0097] Examples

[0098] The following illustrative examples are merely meant to exemplify the present invention and are not intended to limit or otherwise define the scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] In the following examples, pouches were formed from various flexible films, and channels were formed on the respective pouches. In the pouch of Example 1 , the channel was formed in accordance with the present disclosure (i.e., a rigid channel) that had a diameter of about 0.1 inches (about 2.54 mm). In the pouches of Examples 2-4, the channels were formed without rigidity. The channel of each pouch was open to the atmosphere at the bottom of the pouch, not all edges of the pouch were sealed, no air was trapped in the channel, and no product was present in the channel.

[0100] Example 1 : A flexible pouch with a rigid channel in accordance with the present disclosure was formed from a film having the following structure:

[0101] 3-ply lamination of 48 gauge (i.e., about 12.5 microns) OPET;

[0102] 35 gauge (i.e., about 8.9 microns) aluminum foil; and

[0103] 3.5 mil (i.e., about 90 microns) PE sealant.

[0104] Example 2: A comparative flexible pouch without a rigid channel was formed from a film having the following structure:

[0105] 3-ply lamination of 48 gauge (i.e., about 12.5 microns) OPET;

[0106] 35 gauge (i.e., about 8.9 microns) aluminum foil; and

[0107] 3.5 mil (i.e., about 90 microns) PE sealant.

[0108] Example 3: Another comparative flexible pouch without a rigid channel was formed from a film having the following structure:

[0109] 2-ply lamination of 1 mil (i.e., about 25.4 microns) OPE; and

[0110] 3.75 mil (i.e., about 95.25 microns) PE sealant.

[0111] Example 4: Another comparative flexible pouch without a rigid channel was formed from a film having the following structure:

[0112] 3-ply lamination of 48 gauge (i.e., about 12.5 microns) OPET;

[0113] 60 gauge (i.e., about 15.2 microns) OPA; and

[0114] 3.5 mil (i.e., about 90 microns) PE sealant.

[0115] Experimental Results

[0116] The pouches of Examples 1 , 2, 3, and 4 were tested to determine characteristics of their channels. Specifically, slow puncture tests were performed on portions of the pouches of Examples 1 , 2, 3, and 4 corresponding to the respective channels according to ASTM F1306-90. A 3.2 mm probe was used to perform the tests and a crosshead speed was set at 1 inch per min (about 25.4 mm / min). Various force-displacement curves corresponding to the channels were determined and are plotted in a graph 300 shown in FIG. 4.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 4, a force-displacement curve 310 (solid) for Example 1 was obtained by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface of the pouch in alignment with the rigid channel. It was observed that force-displacement curve 310 was linear up to 0.09 inches (about 2.286 mm) of probe displacement value. It was also observed that walls of the rigid channel collapsed onto each other at 0.09 inches probe displacement value and 0.79 pound force (about 3.514 newtons). Above 0.09 inches probe displacement value, force-displacement curve 310 was a function of a stiffness of the film structure.

[0118] Based on the obtained force-displacement curve 310, it was concluded that the rigid channel of Example 1 had two unique functions of force vs. displacement. That is, force-displacement curve 310 incurred a function change at 0.09 inches probe displacement value. This characterized the three-dimensional shape (i.e., the diameter) of the rigid channel.

[0119] For Example 2, a force-displacement curve 320 (dot-dashed) was obtained by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface of the pouch in alignment with the channel. It was observed that walls of the channel collapsed onto each other at 0.012 inches (i.e., about 0.305 mm) probe displacement value.

[0120] Further, for Example 3, a force-displacement curve 330 (long dash-double short dashed) was obtained by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface of the pouch in alignment with the channel. It was observed that walls of the channel collapsed onto each other at 0.013 inches (i.e., about 0.33 mm) probe displacement value.

[0121] Similarly, for Example 4, a force-displacement curve 340 (dashed) was obtained by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface of the pouch in alignment with the channel. It was observed that walls of the channel collapsed onto each other at 0.007 inches (i.e., about 0.178 mm) probe displacement value.

[0122] In contrast to Example 1 , no function changes were observed in forcedisplacement curves 320, 330, 340 corresponding to Examples 2, 3, and 4, respectively. This highlighted that a diameter of the channel of each pouch of Examples 2, 3, and 4 was functionally zero, that is, the channel collapsed onto itself.

[0123] Further aspects of the present disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses.

[0124] Clause 1 . A flexible pouch having an exterior surface and formed from a flexible film, the flexible pouch being configured to provide an integral straw in the form of a channel, the flexible pouch being sealed around at least a periphery with a first seal, the flexible pouch comprising: a cavity, the cavity within the periphery and forming a reservoir for the receipt and storage of a fluidic material, the cavity generally being flexible and capable of deformation, wherein a cavity force-displacement curve determined by contacting a 3.2 millimeters (mm) probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the cavity according to ASTM F1306-90 comprises a stiffness portion from a probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm, and wherein the stiffness portion of the cavity force-displacement curve is a function of a stiffness of the flexible film; the channel within the periphery and partially segregated from the cavity with a second seal, the channel in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material is movable from the cavity to the channel, the channel generally having a rigidity, wherein a channel force-displacement curve determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90 comprises an initial portion from a first probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm and a stiffness portion from a second probe displacement value that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm, wherein the stiffness portion of the channel force-displacement curve is a first function of the stiffness of the flexible film and the initial portion is a second function that is different from the first function, such that the channel force-displacement curve incurs a function change at the second probe displacement value, and wherein the rigidity of the channel forms the integral straw and prevents wet block during an application of vacuum; and a tear propagation, the tear propagation positioned in alignment with the channel, wherein the tear propagation allows for access to at least a portion of the channel and movement of the fluidic material from the cavity to the channel and to a position that is exterior to the flexible pouch. Clause 2. The flexible pouch of clause 1 , wherein the initial portion of the channel force-displacement curve is substantially linear.

[0125] Clause 3. The flexible pouch of clause 1 , further comprising a header that extends from a first edge towards the tear propagation.

[0126] Clause 4. The flexible pouch of clause 3, wherein the header comprises at least a portion of the channel.

[0127] Clause 5. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -4, wherein the tear propagation comprises a line of weakness, a tear notch, or a combination thereof.

[0128] Clause 6. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -5, wherein the flexible pouch comprises a total composition of 80% or greater of polyolefin.

[0129] Clause 7. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -6, further comprising: a front panel and a back panel opposite to the front panel; and printed indicia located on the front panel, the back panel, or a combination thereof.

[0130] Clause 8. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -7, wherein the first seal around at least the periphery is a heat seal.

[0131] Clause 9. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -8, wherein the channel is positioned distal to a central longitudinal axis of the flexible pouch.

[0132] Clause 10. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -9, wherein the channel includes a diameter in a range of 1 .27 mm to 25.4 mm.

[0133] Clause 1 1. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -10, further comprising a second channel.

[0134] Clause 12. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -11 , further comprising a gusset.

[0135] Clause 13. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -12, further comprising a product at least partially contained in the cavity and the channel.

[0136] Clause 14. The flexible pouch of clause 13, wherein the product comprises a comestible product.

[0137] Clause 15. The flexible pouch of any one of clauses 1 -14, further comprising a volume from 100 ml to 250 ml.

[0138] Each and every document cited in this present application, including any cross referenced, is incorporated in this present application in its entirety by this reference, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any embodiment disclosed in this present application or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests, or discloses any such embodiment. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this present application conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this present application governs.

[0139] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing sizes, amounts, ranges, limits, and physical and other properties used in the present application are to be understood as being preceded in all instances of the term “about.” Accordingly, unless expressly indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the present application are approximations that can vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by a person of ordinary skill in the art without undue experimentation using the teachings disclosed in the present application.

[0140] As used in the present application, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used in the present application, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or”, “unless” the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0141] Spatially related terms, including, but not limited to, “lower,” “upper,” “beneath,” “below,” “above,” “bottom,” and “top,” if used in the present application, are used for ease of description to describe spatial relationships of an element(s) to another. Such spatially related terms encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the particular orientations depicted in the figures and described in the present application. For example, if an object depicted in the drawings is turned over or flipped over, elements previously described as below, or beneath other elements would then be above those other elements.

[0142] The drawings show some but not all embodiments. The elements depicted in the drawings are illustrative and not necessarily to scale, and the same (or similar) reference numbers denote the same (or similar) features throughout the drawings.

[0143] The description, examples, embodiments, and drawings disclosed are illustrative only and should not be interpreted as limiting. The present invention includes the description, examples, embodiments, and drawings disclosed; but it is not limited to such description, examples, embodiments, or drawings. As briefly described above, the reader should assume that features of one disclosed embodiment can also be applied to all other disclosed embodiments, unless expressly indicated to the contrary. Modifications and other embodiments will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the packaging arts, and all such modifications and other embodiments are intended and deemed to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A flexible pouch having an exterior surface and formed from a flexible film, the flexible pouch being configured to provide an integral straw in the form of a channel, the flexible pouch being sealed around at least a periphery with a first seal, the flexible pouch comprising: a cavity, the cavity within the periphery and forming a reservoir for the receipt and storage of a fluidic material, the cavity generally being flexible and capable of deformation, wherein a cavity force-displacement curve determined by contacting a 3.2 millimeters (mm) probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the cavity according to ASTM F1306-90 comprises a stiffness portion from a probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm, and wherein the stiffness portion of the cavity force-displacement curve is a function of a stiffness of the flexible film; the channel within the periphery and partially segregated from the cavity with a second seal, the channel in fluidic communication with the cavity such that the fluidic material is movable from the cavity to the channel, the channel generally having a rigidity, wherein a channel force-displacement curve determined by contacting the 3.2 mm probe with the exterior surface in alignment with the channel according to ASTM F1306-90 comprises an initial portion from a first probe displacement value that is less than or equal to 0.74 mm and a stiffness portion from a second probe displacement value that is greater than or equal to 0.76 mm, wherein the stiffness portion of the channel force-displacement curve is a first function of the stiffness of the flexible film and the initial portion is a second function that is different from the first function, such that the channel force-displacement curve incurs a function change at the second probe displacement value, and wherein the rigidity of the channel forms the integral straw and prevents wet block during an application of vacuum; and a tear propagation, the tear propagation positioned in alignment with the channel, wherein the tear propagation allows for access to at least a portion of the channel and movement of the fluidic material from the cavity to the channel and to a position that is exterior to the flexible pouch.

2. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the initial portion of the channel forcedisplacement curve is substantially linear.

3. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising a header that extends from a first edge towards the tear propagation.

4. The flexible pouch of claim 3, wherein the header comprises at least a portion of the channel.

5. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the tear propagation comprises a line of weakness, a tear notch, or a combination thereof.

6. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the flexible pouch comprises a total composition of 80% or greater of polyolefin.

7. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising: a front panel and a back panel opposite to the front panel; and printed indicia located on the front panel, the back panel, or a combination thereof.

8. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the first seal around at least the periphery is a heat seal.

9. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the channel is positioned distal to a central longitudinal axis of the flexible pouch.

10. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , wherein the channel includes a diameter in a range of 1 .27 mm to 25.4 mm.1 1 . The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising a second channel.

12. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising a gusset.

13. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising a product at least partially contained in the cavity and the channel.

14. The flexible pouch of claim 13, wherein the product comprises a comestible product.

15. The flexible pouch of claim 1 , further comprising a volume from 100 ml to 250 ml.

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