a pouch has an elongate closure mechanism adapted to provide vacuum retention within an interior of the pouch over an extended period of time when sealed . the closure mechanism includes a first pair of interlocking members that resealably mate together , a second pair of interlocking members that resealably mate together , and a pair of sealing members that form an air tight seal separate from the interlocking members disposed between the first and second pairs of interlocking members . the closure members are connected with opposing panels of the pouch in a manner designed to provide differential opening and closing forces . the pouch may include a check valve and air evacuation channels to aid in evacuating air from the interior .