Testing the Barrier Properties of Mixed Nut Packaging

Mixed nuts are a popular and nutritious snack. However, their high fat content makes them susceptible to spoilage. Oxidation of these fats leads to rancidity, affecting taste, aroma, and nutritional value. Proper packaging is crucial for maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of mixed nuts.

Mixed nuts are commonly packaged in flexible pouches or flow-wraps made from multi-layer films. The barrier layer within these packages commonly consisting of metallized films, aluminum foil, or EVOH. These materials minimize oxygen and moisture transmission.

To ensure packaging effectiveness, several tests are conducted. Flexible packaging undergoes stress during production, transportation, and handling. Tests like ASTM F392 (Flex Testing of Flexible Barrier Materials) are crucial. This involves repeatedly flexing or creasing the packaging material to simulate real-world conditions.

Labthink C681M Flex Durability Tester is professionally applicable to the determination of flex durability of flexible films, composite films and coating films. The instrument can simulate the kneading and creasing behaviors of films happened during production, processing and transportation. The flex durability can be obtained by measuring the changes in number of pinholes or barrier properties after test, which can provide quantitative basis for package design and practical usage.

After flexing, the OTR and WVTR are re-tested to assess any degradation in barrier performance due to cracking or pinholes. This is especially important for metallized films, which can be prone to cracking. Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) test measures the rate at which oxygen permeates through the packaging material. The differential pressure method (as described to ISO 2556) is commonly used. Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) test measures the rate at which water vapor permeates through the packaging material. This ensures the package protects against moisture ingress.

Labthink C406H Oxygen /Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is based on the testing principle of Coulometric oxygen sensor and infrared water vapor sensor. It is designed and manufactured according to ASTM D3985、ASTM F1249，ISO 15106-2 and other relevant standards to provide high precision and high efficiency oxygen and water vapor transmission rate tests for high and medium gas barrier materials. It is suitable for testing the oxygen and water vapor transmission performance of films, sheets and related materials in the fields of food, medicine, medical devices, daily chemicals, photovoltaic, electronic and many others.

Testing the durability and barrier properties of mixed nut packaging is essential for ensuring product quality and extending shelf life. By employing appropriate testing methods, manufacturers can select packaging materials that effectively protect against oxygen, moisture, and physical damage, ultimately delivering a fresh and enjoyable product to consumers. The combination of barrier property testing (OTR, WVTR) and durability testing provides a comprehensive assessment of packaging performance.

As the demand for functional materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of materials. Labthink encourages collaboration with companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!