Abstract: The sterilizable package and a method for packaging utilize a plastic member and a paper member marginally heat-sealed around all the sides thereof. A slit is provided in the paper extending between two side seals and adjacent to a space from another side seal for receiving the package contents. An adhesive layer is disposed around the paper member between the slit and the edge of the side adjacent to the slit for sealing the slit in response to a single fold along a bending line between the adhesive layer and the slit.

Abstract: A sterilizable package or pouch is made from a plastic member, generally transparent, which is marginally heat sealed around three sides to a paper member so as to leave an opening at one end for inserting the package contents. The paper member has a portion which extends beyond the area to be enclosed by the marginal heat seal when completed. This portion bears indicia, generally printed on the paper, that changes color upon sterilization (either steam or gas sterilization). The indicia bearing portion is adapted to be separated from the package and inserted therein together with the package contents before the marginal heat seal is completed and the package contents are sterilized.

Abstract: A sterilizable package or pouch is made from a plastic member, generally transparent, which is marginally heat sealed around three sides to a paper member so as to leave an opening at one end for inserting the package contents. The paper member has a portion which extends beyond the area to be enclosed by the marginal heat seal when completed. This portion bears indicia, generally printed on the paper, that changes color upon sterilization (either steam or gas sterilization). The indicia bearing portion is adapted to be separated from the package and inserted therein together with the package contents before the marginal heat seal is completed and the package contents are sterilized.

Abstract: Breaks in heat seals between a paper member and a clear plastic member are detected by providing a paper member with a relatively dark coloration, for example dark blue, dark green or dark red, at least in the area of the heat seal, heat sealing the clear plastic member to the paper member in the desired seal area whereby upon breaking the heat seal there is a distinct color contrast between the break in the heat seal and the relatively dark coloration of the paper and any remaining heat sealed area. The method is especially suited for the manufacture of sterilizable packages or pouches for medical implements.

Abstract: A sterilizable package having a plastic member marginally heat sealed to a paper member to which is applied indicia that changes color upon sterilization (gas and/or steam) on the inside of the package. The indicia is located in or near the marginal heat seal and is segregated from the package interior to prevent the package contents from covering or being contaminated by coming in contact with the indicia by heat sealing the plastic member to the paper member in the area of the indicia. The indicia can be located within the area covered by the marginal heat seal or within an unsealed area in the area covered by the marginal heat seal. The indicia can also be located interiorly of the marginal heat seal for example at a corner or angle formed between adjacent seals with the plastic member being heat sealed to the paper member in the area surrounding the indicia.