Active packaging materials incorporating micro-porous solids and essential oils

摘要

A composition contains essential oils absorbed within the pores of a micro-porous solid material. The composition may be incorporated into active packaging material developed to offer anti-microbial properties and extension of shelf life to packaged perishable foodstuffs. The active packaging material may be in the form of a polymeric or natural fibre substrate coated with the composition or in the form of granular beads produced from the composition and contained within a porous sachet. The micro-porous solid may be a large or medium pore zeolite or may be an ion-exchanged form of zeolite or clay. The composition may also be sprayed over growing crops or fresh cut fruits and vegetables.