Abstract:

The incorporation of colorants and UV absorbers in PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) material forms the basis of several studies in the food packaging sector. The main objective of this kind of additives incorporation is to increase the light transmission barrier of the material, maintaining the food quality properties (commercial, nutritional and sensory properties) and increasing the food shelf-life. A great amount of olive oil is currently offered in clear PET packaging. Practically all vegetable or seed-based oils contain varying levels of unsaturated oleofinic acids or esters (e.g. linoleates) which are susceptible to light-induced degradation. The incorporation of a low percentage of UV absorber can significantly reduce the UV light transmission. The UV absorbers and colorants incorporation addition rates into the PET material, during transformation process (injection and blow molding), is quite important to know which the most effective is. Collaboration between UV Absorber/Colorant additive suppliers and PET converters is significant for achieving the goal.