System Combines Effective Oxygen Scavenging with High-Speed Dispensing Equipment

Multisorb Technologies, the global leader in active packaging technology, today introduced its FreshPax® System. This system combines FreshPax oxygen scavenger packets in efficient spooled form with high-speed dispensing equipment to offer food manufacturers an effective sorbent solution that extends the shelf life of food products, particularly those sensitive to oxygen.

Composed of food-grade materials, FreshPax oxygen scavenging packets protect packaged foods against spoilage, rancidity, and mold growth while maintaining color, flavor, and texture. By reducing and maintaining oxygen levels inside sealed packaging at less than 0.01%, not only is freshness maintained but FreshPax packets inhibit the growth of aerobic microorganisms, enabling food manufacturers to extend product shelf life and reduce the use of artificial preservatives. The packets are dispensed from Multisorb’s Active-Pak Automation equipment which features a packet spool supply system offering automated nitrogen purge with nitrogen supply and oxygen level monitoring/alarming. This option ensures that scavengers will deliver their full capacity at the point of insertion.

The use of FreshPax packets in packaging protects a wide variety of food products against oxidative degradation. In packaged cheeses and breads, for example, the packets help decrease mold and mold spoilage. The packets also reduce the formation of n-hexanal and other volatile compounds in high-fat snack foods susceptible to oxidative rancidity.

FreshPax packets significantly improve keeping qualities of polyunsaturated fats and oils and help retain fresh-roasted flavor of coffee and nuts. They prevent oxidation of spice oleoresins, present in spices themselves and in seasoned foods. The packets inhibit oxidation of vitamins A, C and E and prevent mold in natural cheeses and other fermented dairy products. FreshPax packets also delay non-enzymatic browning of fruits and some vegetables and the oxidation and condensation of red pigment of most berries and sauces.

FreshPax oxygen scavenging technology can be used in tandem with gas flushing and vacuum packaging to absorb virtually all oxygen that may permeate the package. FreshPax has been found to be effective when used with many kinds of packaging materials including EVOH and PVDC and can be adjusted to fit specific packaging needs.