Functional properties of food packaging solutions alternative to conventional multilayer systems

This study aimed to investigate the most important functional properties of multilayer and alternative packaging with improved sustainability specifically used for modified atmosphere (MAP) and chilled food products. A multilayer material with a thickness reduction, mono-PET, paper/PE-EVOH-PE, and a biopolymer for trays, together with a SiO_x-coated PET, and a cellulose/PLA-based for lids were analyzed for their optical, tensile, and gas-vapor barrier properties, which were compared to those of conventional trays/lids (PET-EVOH-PE multilayer structures). All the alternative solutions showed good UV-light screening ability, together with high transparency in the visible range, and tensile properties greater than those displayed by conventional configurations. Lid alternative materials exhibited a significantly higher performance in terms of oxygen and water vapor barrier properties as compared to that displayed by conventional counterparts. The tray alternative solutions performed better than the conventional ones against CO₂ and O₂ permeation, with values lower than the detection limit of the instrument (0.01 cm³ m^- 2 day^- 1 and 0.25 cm³ m^- 2 day^- 1 for O₂ and CO₂, respectively). This study demonstrated the high potential of alternative packaging in replacing the current materials intended for storing highly perishable foods stored under MAP and cold storage.