In flexible packaging development, multiple performance tests are routinely applied to evaluate pouch quality, such as seal integrity testing, airtight property testing, and compression resistance testing. However, before any of these evaluations can provide reliable conclusions, packaging must first demonstrate its ability to withstand physical impact during real transportation and handling.
For avocado puree packaging, this requirement is particularly important. Avocado puree is typically filled hot or under aseptic conditions, sealed in flexible pouches, and distributed through long logistics chains. During handling, cartons are dropped, pallets are moved repeatedly, and pouches are exposed to unexpected impact forces. If packaging fails under impact, issues such as leakage, contamination, and oxidation may occur immediately. For this reason, drop testing forms the foundation of dependable avocado puree packaging performance.
1.Unique Impact Challenges in Avocado Puree Packaging
Unlike dry or solid products, avocado puree presents a different set of mechanical challenges due to its semi-liquid nature, internal pressure, and sensitivity to oxygen exposure.
Bottom Structure and Seal Stress
When a filled avocado puree pouch is dropped, the internal product mass shifts instantly, creating hydraulic pressure against the bottom seal. Weak seals or insufficient seal width may result in seal bursts or micro leakage that is not always visible immediately after impact.
Side Seals and Film Flexibility
During impact, puree movement places stress on side seals and laminated film layers. Poor flexibility or weak lamination bonding may lead to internal cracking or delamination, which can later compromise barrier performance.
Spout or Fitment Areas
For spouted avocado puree pouches, the fitment zone is a critical stress point. Impact forces may weaken the seal between the spout and film, increasing the risk of leakage during distribution or consumer use.
2.Applying Drop Testing to Avocado Puree Pouches
Drop testing for avocado puree packaging is designed to reflect real logistics conditions rather than ideal laboratory scenarios. Test samples are randomly selected from production batches and filled with actual puree or equivalent weight materials to replicate real internal pressure and movement.
Typical test conditions include:
Drop heights that simulate handling from conveyors, pallets, and loading platforms
Multiple drop orientations, including flat, bottom down, side, and corner impacts
Repeated drops to evaluate cumulative structural stress
These conditions allow manufacturers to observe how pouch structure, seals, and materials perform under repeated impact in real-world environments.
3.Our Drop Testing Methodology
Sample Preparation
Packaging pouches are randomly selected from standard production and conditioned to simulate actual use conditions during testing.
Drop Height Selection
Retail-sized avocado puree pouches are tested at heights representing handling during packing and shelf stocking. Larger foodservice or bulk packs are tested at higher drop levels to reflect warehouse and pallet handling conditions.
Orientation and Repetition
Each pouch is dropped multiple times in different orientations to evaluate all critical stress areas, including bottom seals, side seams, and spout or fitment zones.
Inspection and Evaluation
After testing, pouches are inspected for seal rupture, pinholes, delamination, fitment leakage, and structural deformation. Only pouches that remain fully intact and functional are considered to meet performance requirements.
4.Why Drop Testing Comes First for Avocado Puree Packaging
Drop testing verifies whether packaging can physically protect avocado puree throughout the supply chain. Several risks must be controlled from filling to final sale.
Leakage Risk
Impact-related seal failure can cause immediate leakage, leading to product loss and hygiene concerns.
Oxygen Exposure
Even small, invisible seal defects caused by impact can allow oxygen ingress, accelerating oxidation and browning of avocado puree.
Food Safety Concerns
Compromised packaging increases the risk of contamination, which is critical for ready-to-eat or aseptically packed products.
By confirming impact resistance first, further evaluations of barrier properties and shelf life are based on structurally reliable packaging.
5.Benefits for Avocado Puree Brands and Consumers
The primary purpose of drop testing is to ensure that packaging absorbs and distributes impact forces without transferring stress directly to the product.
Managing Internal Pressure
Well-designed packaging helps dissipate pressure generated by product movement during impact, reducing stress on seals and laminated layers.
Maintaining Seal Integrity
Drop testing confirms that seals remain intact after repeated impacts, ensuring protection against air and moisture throughout distribution.
Ensuring Long-Term Durability
Avocado puree packaging is handled multiple times before reaching consumers. Durable, drop-tested pouches reduce product loss, minimize returns, and maintain a clean, professional appearance on retail shelves.
Reliable packaging supports consistent product quality while reinforcing brand trust and shelf presence.
6.Drop Testing in Quality Control Systems
Drop testing is integrated into routine quality control procedures for avocado puree packaging. By simulating common handling impacts, this process helps verify consistent performance across production batches.
Seal strength, structural stability, and fitment performance are evaluated after repeated drops in multiple orientations. This approach ensures that every pouch delivered meets the same standards for durability, safety, and functionality.
7.Conclusion
Drop testing is a fundamental step in building reliable avocado puree packaging. Each successful test confirms that the pouch can withstand real-world impact, maintain seal integrity, and protect the product from filling to final consumption.
By prioritizing impact resistance from the beginning, avocado puree packaging is designed not only for visual appeal but also for consistent performance throughout the entire supply chain, safeguarding both product quality and brand reputation.