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High-pressure (HP) technology is a novel, non-thermal food preservation and processing technology whereby food is subjected to high isostatic pressure (100-600 MPa) at or around room temperature. This paper discusses the compatibility o f HP technology with existing food packages, packaging materials and closures. Based on literature data and our o w n research data it is shown that:(i) container-lid combinations, which have sufficient flexibility t o compensate the limited compression o f the food and the complete compression o f air at these high pressures, can be HP treated without physical damage; (ii) mechanical properties and barrier properties o f multilayer plastic and aluminium foil packaging materials are not affected; (iii) HP does n o t influence migration; (iv) heat-seal strength and integrity also are not affected.It is concluded that packaged foods can be HP treated and that HP opens up new possibilities t o make plastic packaging less expensive and more environmentally friendly.

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