Evaluation of global barrier properties in form-fill-seal aseptic packaging systems for foods of pH e 4,5

• Grant number: 15/24660-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: June 06, 2016
• End date: October 05, 2016
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Technology
• Principal Investigator: Carlos Alberto Rodrigues Anjos
• Grantee: Carlos Alberto Rodrigues Anjos
• Host Investigator: Maria de Fatima Filipe Pocas
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia de Alimentos (FEA). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Porto (UCP), Portugal

Abstract

Currently there is a high incidence of closure defects in laminated flexible packaging "box format", existing on the market of some countries and intended for aseptic systems pH products e 4.5. The airtight flexible packaging is directly related to the closure areas, i.e., areas of heat sealing, responsible for sealing and, in part, by the structure and rigidity of the package, besides the quality of the flexible laminate as regards the adhesion of the materials used. Since the heat sealing parameters are well defined and well-controlled by operators and maintenance of equipment, sealing of the packaging will be achieved automatically. Still, part of the problem may be occurring in function defects in material itself due to mechanical stresses during operations folds simultaneously with heat sealing. Due to this occurrence and the fact that the industries do not use efficient control methods to identify problems during the form-fill-seal process of packaging, this project aims to contribute to a better understanding of the problem and propose low-cost alternative a methodology for identifying point defects in packaging that contribute to reduced stability of the packaged product. A literature review was conducted in order to verify the current status of these technologies in relation to the stability of packaged foods through this packaging system. As a result of work is intended to check and confirm a detection methodology and locations of faults and a discussion of industrial alternative solutions that may involve changes in the structure of flexible laminates and equipment parameters of type form-fill- seal. (AU)