a flexible thermoplastic pouch having an easy - open tear strip means secured thereto is provided . according to one embodiment of the present invention , a tear strip is secured to an imperforate sidewall of a flexible pouch along two sawtooth securement lines arranged generally in the shape of an ellipse . the point where the two securement lines converge is give a w - shape , which provides two points of high stress concentration . when the user grasps and pulls the tear strip means , the securement lines rupture precisely at these two points of stress concentration and continue along the sawtooth securement lines , thereby providing the pouch with a dispensing opening of predetermined size , shape , and location . a sealing die apparatus for forming sawtooth , notched lines of securement between the tear strip means and the flexible pouch is alos disclosed .