Both natural and artificial light can affect the quality of dairy products, especially long-life milk and yoghurt. Light exposure causes chemical reactions that can modify the proteins and fats in dairy products, damaging flavour and vitamin content.
Light barriers
To protect dairy products from these light associated dangers and therefore extend shelf life and ensure quality, ColorMatrix is launching a new family of light blocking colourants called Lactra at Drinktec in Munich next month.
Using the CoolRun carrier system developed by ColorMatrix to optimise pigment particle size, Lactra is designed to achieve the twin goal of maximising light protection and minimising product use.
ColorMatrix said the new product provides protection at wavelengths up to 550nm and typically achieves colour usage rates of about 6 to 8 per cent of polymer content.
ColorMatrix spokesperson Morag Girdwood said this means less colour needs to be used, presenting effeciency savings, but also preventing the appearance of a grey finish that can be associated with excess colour.
High performance at low addition levels also makes Lactra an ideal solution where manufacturers want to lower the weight of containers without compromising on light protection, according to ColorMatrix.
The new Lactra products are suitable for use with any PET grade and can be adapted according to particular specifications for light blocking, aesthetics, polymer type, machine set up and container type.
Silk or matt finish effects are available and different options are offered for both mono-layer and multi-layer containers.
Lactra complies with EU and FDA food contact legislation and can be supplied in Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) or drums.
Barrier product
At Drinktec next month, ColorMatrix is also launching a barrier product for oxygen sensitive drinks.
The new Amosorb SoI02 is designed to keep oxygen in and at the same time prevent carbon dioxide from escaping.
Girdwood said it is the combination of these two features that distinguishes the product from other available options and makes it especially suitable for makers of oxygen sensitive fizzy drinks.