Aroma sorption evaluation of aseptic packaging

A headspace method was developed for evaluating aroma sorption by polymeric packaging materials. Partition coefficients for ethyl acetate, n-hexanal, d-limonene and alpha-terpineol at vapor activities of 0.2 were measured between air and the materials at 25 degree C and 40 degree C. Four different flexible aseptic packaging materials with barrier layers of aluminium foil, polyvinylidene chloride (SARAN), metallized polyester (MPET) and ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) were evaluated. Temperature and aroma type had significant effects on partition coefficients. No significant interaction between aromas were observed in partition coefficients. The inner polyolefin sealing layer determined the aroma sorption behavior.