Sachet

A sachet is a small, flat pack for single portions or product samples. Most sachets are sealed on three or four sides and are formed from rollstock on an automatic machine at the same time as they are filled.

Where you see them

Ketchup, mayonnaise, honey and olive oil portions; sugar, salt and instant coffee; shampoo, cream and serum samples; wet wipes; powdered medicines and seeds.

Benefits

• Exact portions with less waste.
• Hygienic single use.
• A low-cost way to let consumers try a new product.
• Low pack cost thanks to its size and production from rollstock.

Technical notes

Because seals take up a large share of a small pack, seal integrity is critical. The sealant must suit the product and seal reliably even through traces of liquid, oil or powder. A tear notch makes opening easy. Barrier is chosen by product sensitivity: foil or metallised structures for hygroscopic powders such as instant coffee, simpler films for short-life products. A stick pack is the slimmer, tube-shaped relative of the sachet.