Abstract: An apparatus and method for dispensing an individual beverage serving are disclosed wherein a rupturable packet containing a flavoring constituent is ruptured by a mechanically actuated platen. Platen movement during the dispensing cycle is controlled by a specially configured cam and dependent upon predetermined volumes of flavoring constituent and gas within the packet. A nozzle assembly is employed for mixing the flavoring constituent with a base liquid and includes a deflector for insuring substantially uniform mixing and elimination of undesired foaming in the beverage. A specially configured rupturable packet is employed in which the side seals and the seal forming the packet spout are stronger than the peel seal of the packet, but weaker than the top closure seal. Another packet design employed with the apparatus has a spout which is angled to one side.

Abstract: A pouch made from thermoplastic film and particularly suited for sterilizing and storing medical items has an edge defined by a fold of the film. A cap of porous material is wrapped over the folded edge and is sealed thereto along a continuous line to define an enclosed area on both sides of the edge in which the film and cap are unsealed. An opening, such as a slot, is provided in or adjacent to the fold of the film, with the opening being entirely located within the unsealed area and spaced from the seal line. The construction lessens the possibility of open bacteria paths often found in similar prior art pouches.In the manufacture of the pouch, a web of thermoplastic film is provided with a series of spaced linear openings or slits, a porous sheet material is applied over the openings and the porous material is sealed to the web along a continuous line surrounding the openings.