Fruit juices could not be packed in PET bottle so far, because of its sensitivity towards Oxygen. Packaging of fruit juices and other oxygen-sensitive drinks in single-serve PET (polyethylene terephthalate) has commenced production in Monosorb barrier bottles. These bottles are made from PET resin blended with a modified formulation of BP's Amosorb DFC additive. Unlike other barrier technologies, which involve adding a coating or creating multiple layers, the barrier in Graham Packaging’s Monosorb bottle is achieved by blending Amosorb DFC into the PET resin immediately prior to moulding using Graham Packaging’s proprietary process. This development now makes it possible for oxygen-sensitive beverage products to be packed in mono-layer barrier containers.
The barrier level in Monosorb bottles can be metered by percentage to customize protection on an as-needed basis. For certain products with extreme sensitivity to oxygen, Monosorb technology can be supplemented with coating technologies, creating yet another barrier option. Monosorb bottles can be recycled the same way as any other PET container and can be re-used for food grade packaging. While the other approaches to achieve barrier such as coating or multi layer bottles will continue, this new technique would provide simplicity and will be cost effective.
Other new technologies also complement the burgeoning market for oxygen-scavenging packaging.
An innovative inkjet printable indicator has been introduced by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, containing a reactive substance that is oxygen sensitive. The sensor, which can be printed onto plastic materials will aid in identifying package leakage by indicating the presence of oxygen in perishable foods that have been packaged in a modified atmosphere. This innovative packaging that that signals if oxygen is present in a package will serve a dual purpose- on one hand it will help food manufacturers preserve food for longer and on the other, help consumers recognise that a particular product has reached its sell-by date.
