Flexible package with pour spout and handle

Abstract

A flexible tubular package having a longitudinal axis and formed from flexible sheet material. The package comprising first and second panels disposed opposite each other and connected on laterally opposite sides. The upper end portion of the package terminates in a free edge and is folded over itself along a transverse fold line to form a flap with the portion of the first panel between the free edge and the fold line abutting the contiguous portion of the first panel below the fold line. The abutting portions are releasably secured to each other by adhesive. The flap includes at least one opening extending through the first and second panels to form a handle. A first permanent seal line extends transversely across the panels adjacent the fold line from one of the sides to an intermediate point, while a second peelable seal line extends transversely across the panels adjacent the fold line from the intermediate point to the other of the sides. The first seal line permanently seals the panels together, while the second seal line releasably seals them together. The flap is arranged to be unfolded to provide access to the second seal line, whereupon the second seal line can be peeled apart to form a pour spout for the package.