ABSTRACT
Packaging materials used for packaging aseptically processed foods have specific requirements to keep the product in a safe and acceptable condition for its expected shelf life. The packaging requirements and specifications may include functional barriers to light, oxygen, and moisture as well as mechanical properties such as the container’s distortion temperature, stiffness, and impact properties, and hermetic seal of finished product package. Heat, chemicals, radiation, and ultraviolet light have been used independently or in combination to sterilize materials for aseptic packaging. Regulatory requirements and cost considerations have put a practical limit on the number of sterilants in commercial use. Sustainability is a main consideration when looking at packaging options today.
