Especially in the food and pharma industry, safety is a crucial factor in choosing the right material. The requirements and regulations regarding food and pharma packaging have changed significantly over recent years. Packaging must possess an ever-growing list of features. To comply with these requirements we test the material-related safety aspects of packaging that come in direct contact with food or pharma products, such as risks due to foreign substances and foreign particles on the packaging and the transfer of substances and additives to the foods.
In our R&D center, we work to meet the individual needs of our clients and their products. Nothing is one size fits all — that’s why we continuously and thoroughly test our materials and products to ensure a perfect, safe fit. Whether it is in-house, or together with one of our specialized partners, we will test whatever you need. Discover some of the possibilities below.
Water vapor transmission rate
Certain food and pharmaceutical products are extremely sensitive to moisture, which strongly impacts their quality and shelf life. That’s why we test the moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), or water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), the steady-state rate at which water vapor permeates through a film at specified conditions of temperature and relative humidity. This consists of a measure of the passage of water vapor through a substance, in this case, the packaging material.
Oxygen transmission rate
As vital as it is for people, as dangerous it can be to food and pharmaceuticals: oxygen plays a big role in the quality, safety and shelf life of these products. Oxygen is a major cause of reactions associated with food spoilage, as it enables pests and mold to grow. In our labs, we test the oxygen transmission rate (OTR): the amount of oxygen gas that passes through a substance over a given period.
Especially in combination with Modified Atmosphere Packaging, keeping oxygen out is crucial in avoiding undesirable oxygen-induced reactions. Much like with MAP, the OTR can be tailored to specific product needs by utilizing specialized films.
- Want to know more about how we keep our packaging material leak-free? Read on in one of our previous blog posts!
Microbiological tests
We also test the microbiological state of the packaging surface, making sure no bacteria can enter through the film or is present on the film. This prevents mold and yeast and is crucial in keeping food and pharmaceuticals germ-free.
Seal strength
Apart from the tests mentioned above, we also test the strength of the seals we use. Different temperatures affect how strong the seal is. In the case of Modified Atmosphere Packaging, for instance, a strong seal is crucial. We prevent any leaks to keep your product safe. And make sure the tear strength and thickness of the seals meet the desired standards.
Want to know more about our facilities and the tests we can conduct for your product packaging? Get in touch with our experts today, or read more about our R&D center here.