Retorting is a food processing method normally used for metal and glass packaging where the food is packaged first, then heated for 20 minutes or longer at high temperature in a large oven to sterilize it and make it safe to eat. Tetra Pak technology has made it possible to create a paper-based packaging material rugged enough to withstand the high temperatures of retorting. This has led to the development of the Tetra Recart® package – the world’s first retortable carton. It can package virtually any foods currently found in cans or jars with the added logistical benefits of a stackable, rectangular shape, light weight, and easy tear-off top that eliminates the need for a can opener.

Furthermore, it won’t break or shatter if dropped and, like other Tetra Pak cartons, it is recyclable.The Tetra Recart® package was first launched for beans and other legumes by Bonduelle, a leading French producer, for the Italian market.