US20110155618A1 - Package system with distribution gas insert - Google Patents
Package system with distribution gas insert Download PDFInfo
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- US20110155618A1 US20110155618A1 US12/672,418 US67241808A US2011155618A1 US 20110155618 A1 US20110155618 A1 US 20110155618A1 US 67241808 A US67241808 A US 67241808A US 2011155618 A1 US2011155618 A1 US 2011155618A1
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- invention according
- insert
- microbial compound
- produce
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
- B65D81/28—Applications of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/30—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure
- B65D85/34—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for fruit, e.g. apples, oranges or tomatoes
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to systems for preventing post harvest diseases of produce and more specifically to packaging systems incorporating anti-microbial (e.g., anti-fungal) compounds for preventing post harvest microbial (e.g., fungal) diseases of fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like).
- anti-microbial e.g., anti-fungal
- berries e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like.
- Fresh produce such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and/or the like), are perishable items with a relatively short lifespan.
- Gliocephalotrichum microchlamydosporum Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
- Botryodiplodia theobromae and Rhizopus stolonifer.
- Penicillium roqueforti is also common contaminants of various food systems, including fresh produce. These fungi typically grow at moisture content of 15 to 20% in equilibrium with a relative humidity of 65 to 90% and temperatures up to 55° C. They are harsher when temperatures surpass 25° C. and relative humidity goes above 85%.
- a packaging system for the controlled release of various anti-microbial compounds, including but not limited to anti-fungal compounds, by incorporating them into a package insert.
- the anti-fungal compounds can include various compositions and/or mixtures of compositions.
- the anti-fungal compounds can include two or more components that can be selectively mixed or combined to produce a gas or vapor that has anti-fungal properties.
- the anti-fungal compounds can be incorporated into a container or sachet (e.g., porous or discontinuous (e.g., with holes, slits, and/or the like)) that is in turn incorporated into a portion of the package insert (e.g., on or in a bottom surface thereof).
- the package insert can include various surfaces (e.g., chimneys, spikes, pillars, walls, corrugations, and/or the like) that include a plurality of holes formed therein.
- the package insert can be placed in the produce package, with the fresh produce introduced therein such that at least some of the fresh produce is in proximity to the plurality of holes.
- the anti-fungal compounds begin, or continue, to diffuse or otherwise be emitted from the plurality of holes, they protect the packaged fresh produce from attack by fungal organisms.
- a produce packaging system comprising: (1) a package defining an internal space; (2) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (3) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
- a produce packaging system comprising: (1) a package defining an internal space, the internal space being operable to receive an amount of produce; (2) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the produce is operable to be placed onto the outer surface of the insert, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (3) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package and contact the produce.
- an insert system for a produce packaging system including a package defining an internal space, comprising: (1) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes a base portion and an upstanding portion extending upwardly away from the base portion, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (2) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
- FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of a package insert, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 1 b is a perspective view of an alternative package insert, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 a is a bottom perspective view of a package insert showing a sustained release device, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 b is a perspective view of the package insert showing a sustained release device depicted in FIG. 2 a , wherein gas, vapor, or volatiles of an anti-fungal compound are released, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a package system having a package insert received therein, wherein a sustained release device is producing gas, vapor, or volatiles of an anti-fungal compound in proximity to fresh produce, in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
- a package insert i.e., a distribution gas insert
- packaging systems especially those used for containing fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like).
- berries e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like.
- the present invention can be practiced in connection with any type of packaged fresh produce, or other foodstuff, that is susceptible to microbial growth, including but not limited to fungal growth.
- a package insert is generally shown at 10 in FIG. 1 a .
- the package insert 10 includes a base portion 12 and an upstanding wall or bridge portion 14 .
- the upstanding wall portion 14 includes first and second major faces 16 , 18 , and at least one side face 20 .
- Formed on the respective base and floor portions are a plurality of holes 22 that are operable to communicate with an interior portion 24 of the package insert 10 .
- a container or sachet 26 can be disposed and/or received within the interior portion 24 , the purpose of which will be explained herein.
- the container or sachet 26 can be placed on the bottom surface of the base portion 12 .
- an alternative package insert is generally shown at 100 in FIG. 1 b .
- the package insert 100 includes a base portion 102 and at least one upstanding chimney, pipe, cylinder or tube portion 104 .
- the chimney portion 104 includes a rounded surface 106 (although any number of configurations would be suitable).
- Formed on the respective base and chimney portions are a plurality of holes 108 that are operable to communicate with an interior portion 110 of the package insert 100 .
- a container or sachet 112 can be disposed and/or received within the interior portion 110 , the purpose of which will be explained herein.
- the design of the package system that will receive the package insert of the present invention will ensure that a proper distribution of gases, vapors, and/or volatiles has been developed (e.g., by using software such as Solidworks® (parametric software for 3D modeling) and Fluent® (computational fluid dynamics)).
- the packaging system of the present invention will maximize the flow of gas or volatiles inside the package.
- An intended objective of the present invention is to expose the total overall surface of the fresh produce, especially “hard to reach” areas that may otherwise not be sufficiently exposed to the released gas, vapor, or volatiles.
- the container or sachet is intended to house various anti-microbial compounds, including but not limited to anti-fungal compounds, and/or mixtures thereof.
- these compounds can include, without limitation, various naturally-occurring volatile compounds such as but not limited to hexanal, acetaldehyde, and 2E-hexanal.
- volatiles can be incorporated (e.g., microencapsulated) into various carriers (including but not limited to biodegradable carriers), such as but not limited to cyclodextrins, to prevent premature release and so to allow slow diffusion over a long period of time.
- microencapsulated volatiles can be incorporated into the container or sachet, whereupon they can diffuse out of the container or sachet, up through the holes formed in the package insert, and throughout the rest of the volume of the produce container, thus aiding in the preservation of the fresh produce from attack by fungal organisms.
- volatile compounds including those having anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal properties, can also be used in the practice of the present invention, such as but not limited to cinnamic acid, 1-methylcyclopropene, isoprene, terpenes, as well as any other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which could be later released.
- VOCs volatile organic compounds
- additional possible compounds can include 2-nonanone, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, methyl jasmonate, benzaldehyde, propanal, butanal, ethanol, acetic acid, allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), thymol, eugenol, citral, vanillin, trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, furfural, ⁇ -ionone, 1-nonanol, nonanal, 3-hexanone, 2-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol, and/or the like.
- AITC allyl-isothiocyanate
- the anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal compounds can comprise ClO 2 being applied (e.g., as a gas or vapor) to the fresh produce.
- ClO 2 being applied (e.g., as a gas or vapor) to the fresh produce.
- this system will slowly release the ClO 2 once activated.
- This type of product is readily commercially available from ICA TriNova (Forest Park, Ga.), a supplier of ClO 2 sustained release sachet technology.
- the ICA TriNova Z-Series ClO 2 technology involves generating the gas by mixing two dry solids, i.e., a ClO 2 precursor and an activator.
- a ClO 2 precursor i.e., a ClO 2 precursor
- an activator i.e., a ClO 2 precursor
- ClO 2 release rates and patterns achieved through the choice and pretreatment of granular solid support materials, post-treatment of impregnates, and the ratio of precursor to activator solids.
- products can be designed for rapid release over minutes (or hours), to slow steady release over weeks.
- the number and dimensions of the package inserts will be determined as a function of the internal volume of the package system.
- the gas, vapor, or volatiles released from the container or sachet will be carried through the internal volume of the package insert, slowly permeate throughout the material, escape through the holes (e.g., mini-pores) and spread inside of the package system and throughout the fresh produce.
- the distribution process e.g., interstate transportation
- temperature can influence the flow of the gas throughout the package system.
- the ICA TriNova Z-Series ClO 2 technology involves generating chlorine dioxide by mixing two dry solids, e.g., a ClO 2 precursor and an activator.
- a ClO 2 precursor e.g., a ClO 2 precursor
- an activator is a granular porous solid impregnated with an acid or with an acid precursor.
- Chlorine dioxide is produced by a disproportionation reaction as the two dry solids are mixed: 4H + +5Na ClO 2 ⁇ 4ClO 2 +NaCl+4Na + +2H 2 O. The efficiency of this reaction is optimized by maintaining localized pH between 2-4 at the particle-to-particle interface.
- the containers or sachets can generate chlorine dioxide either in a gas space or in solution by submerging them in water.
- the sachets are constructed of a porous material that is both water impermeable and gas permeable.
- a single media dry powder product is more appropriate than a sachet.
- the dry powder is a stabilized form of impregnate that is activated by environmental conditions or by contact with the surface being treated.
- the containers or sachets can be designed to produce at levels of about 0.1 mg to about 50 g of chlorine dioxide.
- a device 200 to sustain release gas, vapor or volatiles placed at the bottom of the package insert 202 e.g., in this case a sachet
- the amount of gas permeating through the package insert 202 will be regulated by the amount and size of the holes 204 (e.g., mini-pores) (e.g., ranging between 1 to 0.05 mm in diameter), as well as the permeability of the material comprising the package insert 202 (e.g., a polymer) toward the specific gas, vapor, or volatile.
- the holes 204 e.g., mini-pores
- the permeability of the material comprising the package insert 202 e.g., a polymer
- the gas, vapor, or volatiles (e.g., see the curvy and broken arrowheaded lines) of an anti-fungal compound are shown as being released from the package insert 202 in a generalized pattern, although the pattern may vary with different package insert designs.
- a package insert 300 with the sustained release device 302 e.g., container or sachet
- a package system 304 in this case a strawberry container (although any container will suffice), wherein the produce is shown in phantom.
- the gas, vapor, or volatiles e.g., see the curvy and broken arrowheaded lines) of an anti-fungal compound are shown as being released within the package system 304 and at least partially enveloping the fresh produce therein.
- the size and number of package inserts 300 within any particular package system 304 will depend on the capacity/internal volume of the package system 304 and the desired dose of gas, vapor or volatiles.
Abstract
Packaging systems (304) are provided for preventing post harvest microbial, including but not limited to fungal, diseases of food systems, such as but not limited to fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and/or the like). For example, various anti-microbial (e.g., anti-fungal) compounds (including multi-component compositions that can be selectively activated) can be incorporated into a container or sachet (26, 112) that in turn can be incorporated into a package insert (10, 100, 202, 300). The package insert (10, 100, 202, 300) can include various surfaces that are provided with a plurality of holes (22, 108, 204) formed therein for allowing the anti-microbial (e.g., anti-fungal) compounds to diffuse through the package insert (10, 110, 202, 300) and out through the plurality of holes (22, 108, 204). The package insert (10, 110, 202, 300) can be placed into a produce container (304), wherein the produce can then be introduced into the produce container (304) such that the produce is in proximity to the plurality of holes (22, 108, 204).
Description
- The instant application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/955,299, filed Aug. 10, 2007, the entire specification of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to systems for preventing post harvest diseases of produce and more specifically to packaging systems incorporating anti-microbial (e.g., anti-fungal) compounds for preventing post harvest microbial (e.g., fungal) diseases of fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like).
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, and/or the like), are perishable items with a relatively short lifespan. High levels of sugars and other nutrients, along with an ideal water activity and low pH, provide a growth medium for various microorganisms, including various fungi. Post harvest losses during fresh produce storage and marketing, including but not limited to berry storage and marketing, are mainly caused by fungi such as Colletotrichum acutatum, Alternaria alternata and Botrytis cinerea. Other species of fungi that produce various post harvest diseases in fresh produce include Gliocephalotrichum microchlamydosporum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Botryodiplodia theobromae, and Rhizopus stolonifer.
- Additionally, Penicillium roqueforti, Penicillium expansum, and Aspergillus niger are also common contaminants of various food systems, including fresh produce. These fungi typically grow at moisture content of 15 to 20% in equilibrium with a relative humidity of 65 to 90% and temperatures up to 55° C. They are harsher when temperatures surpass 25° C. and relative humidity goes above 85%.
- Control of these organisms is very difficult, even with preharvest anti-microbial application. Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide new and improved systems for reducing or preventing microbial growth, such as but not limited to fungal growth, in food systems, such as but not limited to fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like), which overcome at least one of the aforementioned problems.
- In accordance with the general teachings of the present invention, a packaging system is provided for the controlled release of various anti-microbial compounds, including but not limited to anti-fungal compounds, by incorporating them into a package insert. The anti-fungal compounds can include various compositions and/or mixtures of compositions. By way of a non-limiting example, the anti-fungal compounds can include two or more components that can be selectively mixed or combined to produce a gas or vapor that has anti-fungal properties. The anti-fungal compounds can be incorporated into a container or sachet (e.g., porous or discontinuous (e.g., with holes, slits, and/or the like)) that is in turn incorporated into a portion of the package insert (e.g., on or in a bottom surface thereof). The package insert can include various surfaces (e.g., chimneys, spikes, pillars, walls, corrugations, and/or the like) that include a plurality of holes formed therein. The package insert can be placed in the produce package, with the fresh produce introduced therein such that at least some of the fresh produce is in proximity to the plurality of holes. As the anti-fungal compounds begin, or continue, to diffuse or otherwise be emitted from the plurality of holes, they protect the packaged fresh produce from attack by fungal organisms.
- In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a produce packaging system is provided, comprising: (1) a package defining an internal space; (2) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (3) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a produce packaging system is provided, comprising: (1) a package defining an internal space, the internal space being operable to receive an amount of produce; (2) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the produce is operable to be placed onto the outer surface of the insert, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (3) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package and contact the produce.
- In accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention, an insert system for a produce packaging system is provided, the produce packaging system including a package defining an internal space, comprising: (1) an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package, wherein the insert includes a base portion and an upstanding portion extending upwardly away from the base portion, wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and (2) at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert, wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
- Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purpose of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
- Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of a package insert, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 1 b is a perspective view of an alternative package insert, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 a is a bottom perspective view of a package insert showing a sustained release device, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 b is a perspective view of the package insert showing a sustained release device depicted inFIG. 2 a, wherein gas, vapor, or volatiles of an anti-fungal compound are released, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a package system having a package insert received therein, wherein a sustained release device is producing gas, vapor, or volatiles of an anti-fungal compound in proximity to fresh produce, in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention. - The same reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the various Figures.
- The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, or uses.
- In accordance with the general teachings of the present invention, a package insert (i.e., a distribution gas insert) is provided for use in conjunction with packaging systems, especially those used for containing fresh produce, such as but not limited to berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries and/or the like). However, it should be appreciated that the present invention can be practiced in connection with any type of packaged fresh produce, or other foodstuff, that is susceptible to microbial growth, including but not limited to fungal growth.
- In accordance with one embodiment, a package insert is generally shown at 10 in
FIG. 1 a. In this embodiment, thepackage insert 10 includes abase portion 12 and an upstanding wall orbridge portion 14. Theupstanding wall portion 14 includes first and secondmajor faces 16, 18, and at least oneside face 20. Formed on the respective base and floor portions are a plurality ofholes 22 that are operable to communicate with aninterior portion 24 of thepackage insert 10. By way of a non-limiting example, a container orsachet 26 can be disposed and/or received within theinterior portion 24, the purpose of which will be explained herein. Alternatively, the container orsachet 26 can be placed on the bottom surface of thebase portion 12. - In accordance with another embodiment, an alternative package insert is generally shown at 100 in
FIG. 1 b. In this embodiment, thepackage insert 100 includes abase portion 102 and at least one upstanding chimney, pipe, cylinder ortube portion 104. Thechimney portion 104 includes a rounded surface 106 (although any number of configurations would be suitable). Formed on the respective base and chimney portions are a plurality ofholes 108 that are operable to communicate with aninterior portion 110 of the package insert 100. By way of a non-limiting example, a container orsachet 112 can be disposed and/or received within theinterior portion 110, the purpose of which will be explained herein. - The design of the package system that will receive the package insert of the present invention will ensure that a proper distribution of gases, vapors, and/or volatiles has been developed (e.g., by using software such as Solidworks® (parametric software for 3D modeling) and Fluent® (computational fluid dynamics)). Ultimately, the packaging system of the present invention will maximize the flow of gas or volatiles inside the package. An intended objective of the present invention is to expose the total overall surface of the fresh produce, especially “hard to reach” areas that may otherwise not be sufficiently exposed to the released gas, vapor, or volatiles.
- In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the container or sachet is intended to house various anti-microbial compounds, including but not limited to anti-fungal compounds, and/or mixtures thereof. By way of a non-limiting example, these compounds can include, without limitation, various naturally-occurring volatile compounds such as but not limited to hexanal, acetaldehyde, and 2E-hexanal. These volatiles can be incorporated (e.g., microencapsulated) into various carriers (including but not limited to biodegradable carriers), such as but not limited to cyclodextrins, to prevent premature release and so to allow slow diffusion over a long period of time. These microencapsulated volatiles can be incorporated into the container or sachet, whereupon they can diffuse out of the container or sachet, up through the holes formed in the package insert, and throughout the rest of the volume of the produce container, thus aiding in the preservation of the fresh produce from attack by fungal organisms.
- In addition to the compounds previously described, the following volatile compounds, including those having anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal properties, can also be used in the practice of the present invention, such as but not limited to cinnamic acid, 1-methylcyclopropene, isoprene, terpenes, as well as any other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which could be later released. By way of a non-limiting example, additional possible compounds can include 2-nonanone, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, methyl jasmonate, benzaldehyde, propanal, butanal, ethanol, acetic acid, allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), thymol, eugenol, citral, vanillin, trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, furfural, β-ionone, 1-nonanol, nonanal, 3-hexanone, 2-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol, and/or the like.
- In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal compounds can comprise ClO2 being applied (e.g., as a gas or vapor) to the fresh produce. By way of a non-limiting example, this system will slowly release the ClO2 once activated. This type of product is readily commercially available from ICA TriNova (Forest Park, Ga.), a supplier of ClO2 sustained release sachet technology.
- Briefly, the ICA TriNova Z-Series ClO2 technology involves generating the gas by mixing two dry solids, i.e., a ClO2 precursor and an activator. There is a wide range of ClO2 release rates and patterns achieved through the choice and pretreatment of granular solid support materials, post-treatment of impregnates, and the ratio of precursor to activator solids. By combination of these variables, products can be designed for rapid release over minutes (or hours), to slow steady release over weeks.
- By way of a non-limiting example, the number and dimensions of the package inserts will be determined as a function of the internal volume of the package system. The gas, vapor, or volatiles released from the container or sachet will be carried through the internal volume of the package insert, slowly permeate throughout the material, escape through the holes (e.g., mini-pores) and spread inside of the package system and throughout the fresh produce. Furthermore, the distribution process (e.g., interstate transportation) and temperature can influence the flow of the gas throughout the package system.
- By way of a non-limiting example, the ICA TriNova Z-Series ClO2 technology involves generating chlorine dioxide by mixing two dry solids, e.g., a ClO2 precursor and an activator. For example, the technology allows for using either sodium chlorite or sodium chlorate as the ClO2 precursor and these materials can be used in either crystalline or impregnated forms. The activator is a granular porous solid impregnated with an acid or with an acid precursor. Chlorine dioxide is produced by a disproportionation reaction as the two dry solids are mixed: 4H++5Na ClO2→4ClO2+NaCl+4Na++2H2O. The efficiency of this reaction is optimized by maintaining localized pH between 2-4 at the particle-to-particle interface.
- The containers or sachets can generate chlorine dioxide either in a gas space or in solution by submerging them in water. For solution applications, the sachets are constructed of a porous material that is both water impermeable and gas permeable. For some applications, such as surface decontamination, a single media dry powder product is more appropriate than a sachet. The dry powder is a stabilized form of impregnate that is activated by environmental conditions or by contact with the surface being treated.
- The containers or sachets can be designed to produce at levels of about 0.1 mg to about 50 g of chlorine dioxide.
- Referring to
FIG. 2 a, there is shown adevice 200 to sustain release gas, vapor or volatiles placed at the bottom of the package insert 202 (e.g., in this case a sachet) and how thepackage insert 202 directs and distributes the gas, vapors, or volatiles. The amount of gas permeating through thepackage insert 202 will be regulated by the amount and size of the holes 204 (e.g., mini-pores) (e.g., ranging between 1 to 0.05 mm in diameter), as well as the permeability of the material comprising the package insert 202 (e.g., a polymer) toward the specific gas, vapor, or volatile. Referring specifically toFIG. 2 b, the gas, vapor, or volatiles (e.g., see the curvy and broken arrowheaded lines) of an anti-fungal compound are shown as being released from thepackage insert 202 in a generalized pattern, although the pattern may vary with different package insert designs. - Referring to
FIG. 3 , there is shown apackage insert 300 with the sustained release device 302 (e.g., container or sachet) placed inside apackage system 304, in this case a strawberry container (although any container will suffice), wherein the produce is shown in phantom. The gas, vapor, or volatiles (e.g., see the curvy and broken arrowheaded lines) of an anti-fungal compound are shown as being released within thepackage system 304 and at least partially enveloping the fresh produce therein. As previously noted, the size and number of package inserts 300 within anyparticular package system 304 will depend on the capacity/internal volume of thepackage system 304 and the desired dose of gas, vapor or volatiles. - While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (35)
1. A produce packaging system, comprising:
a package defining an internal space;
an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package;
wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface;
wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and
at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert;
wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
2. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the internal space is operable to receive an amount of produce.
3. The invention according to claim 2 , wherein the produce is operable to be placed onto the outer surface of the insert.
4. The invention according to claim 3 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to contact the produce.
5. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the insert includes a base portion and an upstanding wall portion.
6. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the insert includes a base portion and at least one upstanding cylinder portion.
7. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is disposed within a container or sachet.
8. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is encapsulated.
9. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of hexanal, acetaldehyde, and 2E-hexanal.
10. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of cinnamic acid, 1-methylcyclopropene, isoprene, terpenes, 2-nonanone, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, methyl jasmonate, benzaldehyde, propanal, butanal, ethanol, acetic acid, allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), thymol, eugenol, citral, vanillin, trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, furfural, β-ionone, 1-nonanol, nonanal, 3-hexanone, 2-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol, and combinations thereof.
11. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of ClO2.
12. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is released over a sustained period of time.
13. The invention according to claim 1 , wherein the produce is a berry.
14. A produce packaging system, comprising:
a package defining an internal space, the internal space being operable to receive an amount of produce;
an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package;
wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface;
wherein the produce is operable to be placed onto the outer surface of the insert;
wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and
at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert;
wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package and contact the produce.
15. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the insert includes a base portion and an upstanding wall portion.
16. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the insert includes a base portion and at least one upstanding cylinder portion.
17. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is disposed within a container or sachet.
18. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is encapsulated.
19. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of hexanal, acetaldehyde, and 2E-hexanal.
20. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of cinnamic acid, 1-methylcyclopropene, isoprene, terpenes, 2-nonanone, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, methyl jasmonate, benzaldehyde, propanal, butanal, ethanol, acetic acid, allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), thymol, eugenol, citral, vanillin, trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, furfural, β-ionone, 1-nonanol, nonanal, 3-hexanone, 2-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol, and combinations thereof.
21. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of ClO2.
22. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is released over a sustained period of time.
23. The invention according to claim 14 , wherein the produce is a berry.
24. An insert system for a produce packaging system, the produce packaging system including a package defining an internal space, comprising:
an insert operable to be received within the internal space of the package;
wherein the insert includes a base portion and an upstanding portion extending upwardly away from the base portion;
wherein the insert includes an outer surface and an inner surface;
wherein the insert is provided with a plurality of apertures formed thereon; and
at least one anti-microbial compound disposed within or on the inner surface of the insert;
wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to diffuse through the plurality of apertures into the internal space of the package.
25. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the internal space is operable to receive an amount of produce.
26. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the produce is operable to be placed onto the outer surface of the insert.
27. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is operable to contact the produce.
28. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the upstanding portion includes a wall portion or a cylinder portion.
29. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is disposed within a container or sachet.
30. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is encapsulated.
31. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of hexanal, acetaldehyde, and 2E-hexanal.
32. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of cinnamic acid, 1-methylcyclopropene, isoprene, terpenes, 2-nonanone, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, methyl jasmonate, benzaldehyde, propanal, butanal, ethanol, acetic acid, allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), thymol, eugenol, citral, vanillin, trans-cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, furfural, β-ionone, 1-nonanol, nonanal, 3-hexanone, 2-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol, and combinations thereof.
33. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is comprised of ClO2.
34. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the at least one anti-microbial compound is released over a sustained period of time.
35. The invention according to claim 24 , wherein the produce is a berry.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/672,418 US20110155618A1 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2008-08-08 | Package system with distribution gas insert |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US95529907P | 2007-08-10 | 2007-08-10 | |
US12/672,418 US20110155618A1 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2008-08-08 | Package system with distribution gas insert |
PCT/US2008/009552 WO2009042017A1 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2008-08-08 | Package system with distribution gas insert |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110155618A1 true US20110155618A1 (en) | 2011-06-30 |
Family
ID=39942903
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/672,418 Abandoned US20110155618A1 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2008-08-08 | Package system with distribution gas insert |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110155618A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009042017A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
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WO2013012923A1 (en) * | 2011-07-18 | 2013-01-24 | Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University | Product packaging system with antimicrobial agent |
US20160057998A1 (en) * | 2013-04-12 | 2016-03-03 | Perry Lidster | Antimicrobial mixtures of an essential oil derived bactericide and an essential oil derived fungicide which extend the shelf-life of perishable agricultural commodities |
US10537125B2 (en) | 2016-05-23 | 2020-01-21 | The United States Of America, As Represented By The Secretary Of Agriculture | Chlorine dioxide gas releasing package label insert for enhancing microbial safety of food |
US10913190B2 (en) * | 2016-01-21 | 2021-02-09 | Peniel World Co., Ltd | Method for fabricating antibacterial container |
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CN103444841B (en) * | 2013-09-03 | 2015-04-22 | 浙江省农业科学院 | Biological preservation method for blueberry fruits |
FR3038302B1 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2019-09-13 | Karine Courtin | CONTAINER COMPRISING A BACTERICIDE INSERT |
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US20160057998A1 (en) * | 2013-04-12 | 2016-03-03 | Perry Lidster | Antimicrobial mixtures of an essential oil derived bactericide and an essential oil derived fungicide which extend the shelf-life of perishable agricultural commodities |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2009042017A1 (en) | 2009-04-02 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |