Abstract: The present invention relates to a flexible package that includes a packaging material having a sealant web with a first side and a second side. Disposed on the first side of the sealant web is a pattern of an energy-cured coating. The package also includes a heat sealed area, at least a portion of the pattern of energy-cured coating being disposed within the heat sealed area. A method for creating the flexible package is also described.

Abstract: Lap sealable laminates and pouches made therefrom that can withstand retort conditions, periods of storage and subsequent rethermalization are described. The laminate includes a core formed from at least one plastic strength layer of, for example, polyester, nylon, cast polypropylene or oriented polypropylene, and a barrier layer formed from ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, Nylon-MXD6, polyvinylidene chloride, an inorganic oxide coating or an organic coating. The core includes first and second major surfaces. A heat seal layer of, for example, polypropylene or cross-linked polyethylene is laminated to each of the major surfaces with a high temperature laminating adhesive. A retortable pouch with a longitudinal lap seal can be formed from the laminate on a form-fill-seal machine.