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.