Selection of polymeric packaging materials

The quality of a food product depends on its moisture content, extent of oxidation, concentration of flavor and odor components, and combinations of these factors. Maintenance of these factors at acceptable levels is governed by the permeability of the packaging system and the conditions of transport, storage, and marketing considerations. However, the choice of a packaging material or container for particular food storage is affected by several factors. 

Permeability is the permeation of a penetrant (liquid, vapor, gas, or volatile odor) through a polymeric membrane barrier which may be film, laminate, or coating. The rate of transmission at which a penetrant will pass through a polymeric membrane is governed by different factors. Some of these factors are dependent on the 

However, in the design of packaging containers, it is desirable to minimize the three factors solubility, diffusitivity, and transport of the coatings or films used in these structures. 

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