Projectname:
Improved shelf life by means of UV-filter and modified atmosphere packaging
Workgroup: Preservation of food quality
Spokesman of IVLV-Project Team: N.N.
Research Institution: Fraunhofer IVV
Scientific Guidance: Dr. Dr. G. Ziegleder/Hr. W. Danzl
Financing: FoGe
Project Duration: 2006
The reduction of oxygen in food packaging may extend shelf life. Therefore, different vacuum and modified atmosphere packages are on the market. The influence of light can enhance the oxidation processes. UV-filters in packaging materials are fully transparent for visible light and effectively absorb high energy radiation. They protect food products which are susceptible to photo-oxidation, for example refined edible oils, animal fats and fatty food like snacks, dressings or mayonnaises.
The project idea is to combine UV-protection with oxygen protection (e.g. MAP, vacuum), applying transparent plastic films. These plastic films are provided with UV-filters and need a high oxygen barrier. By combining these two methods one should get an extended shelf life as well as an improved quality of the packaged food. UV-filters are available for a broad band of plastic materials, and therefore it is possible to combine these with modified atmosphere packaging, vacuum packaging, scavenger materials or high barrier materials.Some selected examples of foods will be packed under modified atmosphere or vacuum. In addition the transparent packaging films will be equipped with UV-filters. These packages will be stored under defined light exposure. Transmission of light through the packaging materials between 200 nm – 800 nm, residual oxygen as well as permeation of oxygen through the packaging will be monitored. Sensory food quality, colour, fat oxidation, vitamins and antioxidants will be estimated over storage time.
