So-called ‘scavenger’ products such as this are commonly used in beverage packaging to protect oxygen-sensitive drinks like beers, wines and juices. Ultimately they therefore help to extend the shelf life of these drinks.
Two goals
But ColorMatrix spokesperson Morag Girdwood said what separates the new Amosorb SoI02 from other scavengers is that it prevents carbon dioxide from escaping, as well as keeping oxygen out.
Girdwood said this is an important consideration for fizzy drink makers, and will be of particular interest to makers of beer, and other carbonated drinks who are concerned about both carbon dioxide loss and oxygen contamination.
UK-based ColorMatrix claims the product can delay carbon dioxide exit by up to 30 days. In addition, the company says Amosorb SoI02 can protect drinks from oxygen entrance for up to four months longer than PET with standard Amosorb.
Adding colour
Amosorb SoI02 can be used on any type of PET resin and will not be affected by the addition of colour. Girdwood said scavengers are often incorporated into the resin itself and when colour is applied the effectiveness of the scavenger can be affected.
She said these alternative systems also offer less control because the scavenger is already in the resin and so the quantity of it can not be varied according to the needs of particular products.
With Amosorb SoI02, she said protection from oxygen, prevention of carbon dioxide loss and the addition of colour can all be combined easily.
At DrinkTec in Munich ColorMatrix will be presenting the new product alongside its existing dosing systems and a new light blocking product for the dairy industry, designed to improve process capacity and extend shelf life.