Preservation and antifungal packaging devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a preservation and / or antifungal device for use with fresh fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, and especially soft fruits, such as but not limited to blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and / or blackberries, comprising a packaging container for the fruit or vegetable and a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multilayer laminate film adapted to seal the container once the fruit or vegetable is packaged inside. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for preserving fruits or vegetables and / or inhibiting fungal growth using the preservation and / or antifungal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a preservation and / or antifungal device for use with fresh fruits and / or vegetables including tomatoes, grapes and particularly soft fruits such as, but not limited to, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and / or blackberries, comprising a packaging container for the fruit or vegetable and a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate film adapted to seal the container when the fruit or vegetable is packaged therein. The present invention further relates to a method of preserving a fruit or vegetable and / or suppressing fungal growth using the preservation and / or antifungal device.

Background Art

[0002] Background It is estimated that up to 50% of the sales of soft fruits such as berries can be lost due to post-harvest damage or spoilage. This is due in part to the fact that berries, as non-climacteric fruits, must be harvested near maturity and do not ripen further after harvest.

[0003] Currently, the most common methods for maintaining quality during the post-harvest period are rapid precooling and storage at low temperatures.

[0004] Soft fruits such as berries are typically packaged in wide shallow containers having no more than two layers of fruit to prevent the bottom fruit from being crushed by the top fruit. Even more typically, packaging in the form of a clam shell or punnet with a lid is used to prevent water loss. These provide mechanical protection to the fragile fruit, can be transparent or clear so that the consumer can inspect the fruit at the time of purchase if desired, and are relatively inexpensive. Usually, the container is ventilated at the top surface and / or the side surfaces.

[0005] However, another method used for packaging soft fruits is the use of film-sealable containers, preferably with or without an additional lid. This packaging may be a plastic or pulp panel or tray with a heat-seal or cold-seal film closure, and is typically made from recyclable materials such as all-polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packs.

[0006] Typically, the infectious agents that cause spoilage of fresh fruits and vegetables are fungi and / or bacteria. To prevent spoilage, it is essential to pre-cool them to about 0°C, preferably immediately after harvesting. Generally, a high relative humidity of about 85-95% is maintained in transport containers or storage rooms, but moisture on the actual fruit or vegetable or inside the packaging should be kept to a minimum to reduce the level of fungal spoilage. Transport and storage temperatures are usually kept below 5°C, often by forced air cooling.

[0007] Soft fruits, in particular, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, have high respiration rates and are susceptible to spoilage caused by rot-causing pathogens, especially Botrytis cinerea, which causes gray mold. The presence of ethylene can further stimulate respiration and promote the growth of Botrytis.

[0008] SO2 generation devices are primarily used with blueberries, typically at concentrations of around 8–15%, and are generated within packaging that uses small packages containing SO2-generating chemicals such as sodium metabisulfite (SMBS).

[0009] However, these SO2-generating packaging practices are associated with the bleaching of berries.

[0010] Furthermore, the type of packaging used plays a crucial role in maintaining the freshness and quality of fruits and vegetables, and heat-sealed containers such as panettes have been found to be more effective than those with lids in reducing weight loss of produce over time. Such heat-seal films would be useful if they could be adapted to include preservatives and antifungal agents to provide protection for fresh produce from farm to consumer, thereby maintaining the quality of fresh produce, extending its shelf life, preventing spoilage, and reducing food loss and waste.

[0011] While sustained-release SO2-generating laminate films are known, such as those described by Clemes et al. (U.S. Patents 5,106,596 and 7,045,182), they have been found to cause significant phytotoxicity when used with soft fruits such as berries, due to the sensitive nature of berries compared to grapes, for which such products are typically designed. It would be useful to have a product that can be used for multiple fresh produce applications, from vegetables like tomatoes to fruits such as grapes, including problematic soft fruits.

[0012] Additionally, since it's necessary to harvest berries that are close to ripeness, it would be beneficial to include additional additives such as ethylene scrubbers if possible. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013] Therefore, given that temperatures rise during transport or storage and while stored at retailers, particularly during shipping, transport or storage, and this is accompanied by an increased ability of fungi, including Botrytis sp., to grow on fruits or vegetables and their stems, there is still a need for methods or devices for preserving the quality of fruits and vegetables, including soft fruits such as tomatoes and grapes, especially berries, in containers.

[0014] Furthermore, multilayer films currently used for grape preservation, such as those described by Clemes et al., are not recyclable and are manufactured from a mixture of polymer sheets laminated with wax layers in between. Given the commercial importance of providing recyclable materials today, such devices should be even more recyclable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention, a preservation and / or antifungal device for use with fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes and especially soft fruits, including berries such as, but not limited to, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, comprising a packaging container including a panet for containing the fruits and / or vegetables, and a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multilayer laminate film, which, when the fruits or vegetables are packaged in the container, is adapted to seal the container through a sealable contact of a first operably inward-facing layer of the multilayer laminate film with the open end of the container, wherein the SO2-producing multilayer laminate film (i) A first operably inward-facing layer which may be composed of a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and filler, a material coated with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat seal lacquer, or a material selected from (ii) A second operably outward-facing layer which may be composed of a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and filler, a material coated with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat seal lacquer, or a material selected from (iii) An internal adhesive layer between a first layer and a second layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, comprising an adhesive composition comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition having a concentration of about 30% to about 90% by weight / weight (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, more preferably a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition, and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein. Includes, If the first operably inward-facing layer comprises a material selected from a non-thermoplastic polymer or paper without a thermoplastic coating, the edge of the open end of the container or the edge of the inward-facing layer that operably contacts the edge of the open end of the container is coated with an adhesive, but is not limited to, a cold seal adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a peelable adhesive, etc. A storage and / or antifungal device is provided.

[0016] Optionally, even if the first operationally inward-facing layer is a thermoplastic material or a material coated with a thermoplastic coating, the open end of the container may be coated with adhesive, although this is typically not necessary.

[0017] In particular, the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer may consist of paper including kraft or machine-glazed bleached kraft (MGBK) paper, biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), polyolefin film including low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or polyester film including polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The first and second layers may be made of the same or different materials.

[0018] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer may consist of a polyolefin film layer in the range of about 9 μm to 150 μm or any partial range contained therein, or a paper layer in the range of about 13 GSM to 300 GSM or any partial range contained therein, or a polyester film in the range of about 3 μm to 100 μm or any partial range contained therein. It should be understood that the above dimensional ranges are essential for effectively controlling the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) to generate an effective amount of SO2 gas by the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film for the preservation of packaged fruits and / or vegetables and for inhibiting fungal growth therein, over a typical period for transporting and storing fruits and / or vegetables, as discovered by the applicant.

[0019] The first operably inward-facing layer, which is a polyolefin or polyester film layer, may be made of a heat-sealable material or have an adhesive coating applied thereto. If the first operably inward-facing layer is a paper layer, it may be coated with an adhesive coating to make it sealable to the device's container.

[0020] The container or panel may be made of a base material including recycled polymer or paper substrate, foil, PET or BOPP polymer, or paper, pulp or cardboard substrate.

[0021] The first operatively inward-facing layer and / or the second operatively outward-facing layer can optionally be micro-perforated, such as by hot needle punching, cold needle punching or laser punching. The diameter of the perforations, the number of perforations and the arrangement of the perforations on the layer are such that, for a typical period of storage, including during the transportation of fruits and / or vegetables and storage by retailers, with a diameter of micro-perforations in the range of about 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any sub-range contained therein, the moisture and SO2 gas generation can be controlled as desired by the user with respect to the preservation of the packaged fruits and / or vegetables and the suppression of fungal growth therein by a SO2-generating multilayer laminate film. The spacing between the micro-perforations can optionally be 5 mm horizontally and 10 mm vertically, but it should be understood that the dimensions of the spacing can be adapted as desired by the user.

[0022] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, if neither the first operatively inward-facing layer of the material nor the second operatively outward-facing layer is micro-perforated, the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film can be micro-perforated when laminated together, and the diameter of the micro-perforations is in the range of about 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any sub-range contained therein. The spacing between the micro-perforations can optionally be 5 mm horizontally and 10 mm vertically, but it should be understood that the dimensions of the spacing can be adapted as desired by the user.

[0023] Further optionally, the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film can include macro-perforations, and the diameter of the macro-perforations is in the range of about 2 mm to 100 mm or any sub-range contained therein to control the air flow and moisture level within the container.

[0024] It should be understood that the arrangement of the micro- and / or macro-perforations can be such that a selected area or zone of the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film contains the micro- and / or macro-perforations.

[0025] Optionally, either or both of the first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer can be treated with one or more additional treatments including an anti-fogging treatment, a corona treatment, or a chemical treatment for ink adhesion. The first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer can be composed of a substantially transparent polymer.

[0026] In particular, the solventless polyurethane adhesive composition can have a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any sub-range concentration contained therein, and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of about 10 μm to about 70 μm or about 20 μm to about 50 μm or any sub-range diameter contained therein can have a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any sub-range concentration contained therein.

[0027] The paper can be paper coated on one or both surfaces with a coating such as, but not limited to, a WVTR or OTR control coating or any one or more of a hydrophobic, hydrophilic or primer coating well-known in the art, or can be uncoated paper. Alternatively, the paper can be paper coated on one or both surfaces with a polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE or a polyester film including PET. When the paper is coated on one surface, the internal adhesive layer is coated on the coated surface of the paper.

[0028] The thickness of the first and second layers of paper, polyolefin, or polyester film is specifically selected for optimal permeability, allowing water vapor to move inward from the air inside the container through the paper, polyolefin, or polyester film, reach the SMBS microgranules in the internal adhesive layer, thereby activating the SMBS and releasing SO2 gas, which then moves outward through the paper, polyolefin, or polyester film to reach the fruit or vegetable inside the container at concentrations effective in reducing or inhibiting the growth of pathogens, including Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea), in the packaged fruit or vegetable.

[0029] In particular, the first or second polyolefin film layer may be in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any sub-range within that range, and the thickness of the first or second polyester film layer may be in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any sub-range within that range.

[0030] Furthermore, the concentration and SMBS granule diameter are specifically selected to generate an effective level of SO2 gas in the container of approximately 1 ppm to 200 ppm, which lasts for 5 to 70 days, more typically about 20 to 30 days.

[0031] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a preservation and / or antifungal device for use during storage, including during transport or storage at retail, of fruits and / or vegetables including tomatoes, grapes, and especially soft fruits, including berries such as, but not limited to, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and / or blackberries, comprising a packaging container including a panet for containing the fruits and / or vegetables, and a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multilayer laminate film, which, once the fruits or vegetables are packaged in the container, is adapted to flow-wrap the container with the multilayer laminate film, including contact of a first operably inward-facing layer of the multilayer laminate film with the open end of the container, wherein the SO2-producing multilayer laminate film is, (i) A first operably inward-facing layer comprising a polymer selected from the group including biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polyolefin film, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester film, (ii) A second operably outward-facing layer comprising a polymer selected from the group including biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polyolefin film, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester film, (iii) An internal adhesive layer between a first layer and a second layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, comprising an adhesive composition comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition having a concentration of about 30% to about 90% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, more preferably a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition, and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein. A storage and / or antifungal device is provided, which includes the above.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of this second aspect of the present invention, the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer may consist of a polyolefin film layer in the range of about 9 μm to 150 μm or any sub-range within that range, or a polyester film in the range of about 3 μm to 100 μm or any sub-range within that range. It should be understood that the above dimensional range is essential for effectively controlling the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) to generate an effective amount of SO2 gas by the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film for the preservation of packaged fruits and / or vegetables and the suppression of fungal growth therein, over a typical period for transport and storage of fruits and / or vegetables and during storage at retailers.

[0033] In particular, the solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition may have a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, and the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 10 μm to about 70 μm or about 20 μm to about 50 μm or any partial range contained therein have a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein.

[0034] The thickness of the first and second layers of polyolefin or polyester film is specifically selected for optimal permeability, allowing water vapor to move inward from the air inside the container through the polyolefin or polyester film, reach the SMBS microgranules in the internal adhesive layer, thereby activating the SMBS and releasing SO2 gas, which then moves outward through the polyolefin or polyester film to reach the fruit or vegetable inside the container at concentrations effective in reducing or inhibiting the growth of pathogens, including Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea), in the packaged fruit or vegetable.

[0035] In particular, the first or second polyolefin film layer may be in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any sub-range within that range, and the thickness of the first or second polyester film layer may be in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any sub-range within that range.

[0036] Furthermore, the concentration and SMBS granule diameter are specifically selected to generate an effective level of SO2 gas in the container of approximately 1 ppm to 200 ppm, which lasts for 5 to 70 days, more typically about 20 to 30 days.

[0037] The internal adhesive layer in any embodiment of the present invention may further optionally include a chemical ethylene scrubber selected from the group comprising potassium permanganate, zeolite, activated carbon, pumice, and other chemical ethylene scrubbers well known in the art.

[0038] A third aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing an SO2-generating multilayer laminate film for use in the preservation and / or antifungal device of the present invention, (a) A step of providing a first operably inward-facing layer which may consist of a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and filler, a material coated with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat seal lacquer, or a material selected from (b) A step of applying an adhesive layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, comprising an adhesive composition comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition, more preferably a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition, at a concentration of about 30% to about 90% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, onto a first substrate material layer using a laminating or coating machine; (c) A step of stacking a second operably outward-facing layer, which may be composed of a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and filler, a material coated with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat-seal lacquer, or a material selected from thermoplastic material, a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and filler, on top of an adhesive layer using a laminating machine such as (c) a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer and an inorganic crosslinking agent, a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from a thermoplastic material, a material selected from (d) If the first operably inward-facing layer optionally contains a material selected from a non-thermoplastic polymer or paper without a thermoplastic coating, the additional step of coating the operably inward-facing surface of the first layer with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat-seal lacquer containing a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler. A method including this is provided.

[0039] The adhesive layer may optionally further include a chemical ethylene scrubber selected from the group comprising potassium permanganate, zeolite, activated carbon, pumice, and other chemical ethylene scrubbers well known in the art.

[0040] In particular, the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer may consist of paper including kraft or MGBK paper, polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, HDPE, or polyester film including PET. The first and second layers may be made of the same or different materials.

[0041] In particular, the thickness of the first operably inward-facing paper layer and / or the second operably outward-facing paper layer may be in the range of about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM or any sub-range within that range, the thickness of the first operably inward-facing polyolefin layer and / or the second operably outward-facing polyolefin film layer may be in the range of 9 μm to 150 μm or any sub-range within that range, and the thickness of the first operably inward-facing polyester layer and / or the second operably outward-facing polyester film layer may be in the range of 3 μm to 100 μm or any sub-range within that range.

[0042] The first operationally inward-facing layer and / or the second operationally outward-facing layer may optionally be microperforated by hot needle perforation, cold needle perforation, or laser perforation. The diameter of the perforations, the number of perforations, and the arrangement of perforations on the layer are adapted to control moisture and SO2 gas production with respect to the preservation of packaged fruits and / or vegetables and the inhibition of fungal growth therein, over a typical period for transport and storage of fruits and / or vegetables and during storage at retailers, with the microperforation diameter being in the range of approximately 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any sub-range within that range. The spacing between microperforations may optionally be 5 mm horizontally and 10 mm vertically, but it should be understood that the spacing dimensions may be adapted as desired by the user.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment of this third aspect of the present invention, if neither the first operably inward-facing layer nor the second operably outward-facing layer of the material is microperforated, the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film may be microperforated when laminated together, and the diameter of the microperforations is in the range of approximately 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any partial range within that range. The spacing between microperforations may optionally be 5 mm horizontally and 10 mm vertically, but it should be understood that the dimensions of the spacing may be adapted as desired by the user.

[0044] Furthermore, the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film may optionally include macroperforations, the diameter of which is in the range of approximately 2 mm to 100 mm or any partial range within that range, in order to control airflow and moisture levels within the container. The spacing between macroperforations may optionally be 5 mm horizontally and 10 mm vertically, but it should be understood that the spacing dimensions can be adapted as desired by the user.

[0045] It should be understood that the arrangement of micro and / or macro perforations may be such that selected areas or zones of the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film contain either micro or macro perforations.

[0046] Optionally, either or both of the first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer may be further treated with one or more additional treatments, including anti-fogging treatment, corona treatment, or chemical treatment for ink adhesion.

[0047] The SO2-generating multilayer laminate film can be cut to desired dimensions before use in the preservation and / or antifungal device of the present invention.

[0048] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method for preserving fresh fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, and especially soft fruits, such as, but not limited to, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and / or blackberries, packaged in containers or panettes, during storage, including during transport and / or storage at retail stores, or for suppressing fungal growth, particularly B. cinerea, in such fruits and / or vegetables, using a preservation and / or antifungal device according to any aspect of the present invention.

[0049] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a storage and / or antifungal device according to the present invention, substantially described herein with reference to any one of the exemplary embodiments.

[0050] Brief explanation of the drawing The present invention will be described with reference to the following illustrative drawings, which shall not be deemed to limit the scope of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0051] [Figure 1] This shows the rate of inhibition of Botrytis growth in various PET heat-sealed sheets over time (7 days) in vitro. [Figure 2] This shows the rate of Alternaria proliferation inhibition over time (7 days) in vitro using various PET heat-sealed sheets. [Figure 3]This shows the occurrence of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods of 300g heat-sealed panetto. [Figure 4] This shows the occurrence of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods in 750g heat-sealed panetto. [Figure 5] The defect rates recorded in Blackberries in Flow Wrap Sleeves are shown after 5 days of cold storage at 2°C and a further 7 days of storage at 15°C. [Figure 6] This shows the occurrence of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when heat-seal film is applied. [Figure 7] This demonstrates the suppression of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when heat-seal film is applied. [Figure 8] This shows the occurrence of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when a flow wrap film is applied. [Figure 9] This demonstrates the suppression of spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when using Flowwrap film. [Figure 10] This shows SO2 damage to blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when heat-seal film is applied. [Figure 11] This shows SO2 damage to blueberries during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when a flow wrap film is applied. [Figure 12] This demonstrates the suppression of spoilage in tomatoes during low-temperature storage and preservation periods when heat-seal film is applied. [Figure 13] This demonstrates the suppression of spoilage in tomatoes during low-temperature storage and after the storage period when using Flow Wrap film. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0052] Detailed explanation The present invention relates to a preservation and / or antifungal device for use during storage, including during transport or storage at retailers, of fresh fruits or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, and especially soft fruits, such as but not limited to blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and / or blackberries, comprising a packaging container for the fruits or vegetables and a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multilayer laminate film adapted to seal the container once the berries are packaged inside. The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the device of the present invention and a method for using the device of the present invention to preserve fruits or vegetables, especially soft fruits, and to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, including B. cinerea.

[0053] The following description of the present invention is provided as possible teachings of the invention and illustrates the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Modifications to the illustrated and described embodiments may be made, but it will be understood that the beneficial results of the invention will still be achieved. Furthermore, it will be understood that some of the benefits of the invention can be achieved by selecting some of the features of the invention without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications and adaptations to the invention are possible, and may even be desirable in certain situations, and are part of the invention.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the applicant has developed a preservation and / or antifungal device comprising an SO2-generating multilayer laminate film having a first operably inward-facing layer that can sealably contact the edge of the open end of a panet when fruits such as berries are packaged. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer is made of a heat-sealable (thermoplastic) material or coated with a thermoplastic coating such as a heat-seal lacquer or a similar coating known to those skilled in the art, thereby the first layer is heat-sealable to various panet types. There are many such commercially available heat-seal coatings that can adhere to many kinds of substrates such as films, foils and paper. One example comprises a binder such as an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler.

[0055] The second operable outward-facing layer of the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film may optionally be made of a thermoplastic material, coated with a thermoplastic coating, or simply be a standard substrate material (i.e., non-thermoplastic or uncoated).

[0056] First layer The first layer may be one of the following materials: paper including kraft or machine-glazed bleached kraft (MGBK) paper, polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE, or polyester film including PET.

[0057] especially, The polyolefin film layer may be in the range of 9 μm to 150 μm. The paper layer may be in the range of 13 GSM to 300 GSM. The polyester film layer may be in the range of 3 μm to 100 μm.

[0058] The polymer film may be heat-sealable or have a coating applied for heat sealing. The paper must have a coating applied to make it sealable to the panel. This makes the base material sealable to all available panels (PET, BOPP, or paper panels, etc.).

[0059] The thickness and coating applied to the paper or polymer film layer are selected to control WVTR and OTR in order to provide an effective amount of SO2 gas over the period required for storage, including during transport and / or storage at the retailer.

[0060] In certain embodiments of the present invention, a paper or polymer film layer is microperforated by a perforation technique (such as hot needle perforation, cold needle perforation, or laser perforation). The diameter of the perforations, the number of perforations, and the arrangement of the perforations (including the possibility of having perforated and unperforated portions on a single film) are selected to control the release of SO2 gas into the packaged fruits and / or vegetables through moisture and the substrate.

[0061] In particular, the diameter of the micro-perforations can range from 0.05 to 2.8 mm.

[0062] Second layer The second paper or polymer film layer may be any one of a variety of base materials, such as paper including kraft or machine-glazed bleached kraft (MGBK) paper, polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE, or polyester film including PET.

[0063] especially, The polyolefin film layer may be in the range of 9 μm to 150 μm. The paper layer may be in the range of 13 GSM to 300 GSM. The polyester film layer may be in the range of 3 μm to 100 μm.

[0064] Similar to the first layer, the polymer film may be heat-sealable or have a coating applied for heat sealing. The paper needs to have a coating applied to make it sealable to the panel. This is ideal if you want to have a reversible product. If the product does not need to be reversible, the material used does not need to be heat-sealable or coated.

[0065] The thickness and coating applied to the paper or polymer film layer are selected to control WVTR and OTR in order to provide an effective amount of SO2 gas over the period required for storage, including during transport and / or storage at the retailer.

[0066] Laminated compound The first and second layers are laminated together using an adhesive mixture of solvent-free polyurethane and SMBS as the active ingredient. An ethylene scrubber may also be included if necessary. Many chemical ethylene scrubbers are known to those skilled in the art and can be incorporated at concentrations recommended by the supplier.

[0067] The adhesive concentration can range from approximately 30% to 90% w / w, while the SMBS concentration is 10% to approximately 70% w / w.

[0068] The microgranules of SMBS typically have a diameter of approximately 1 μm to 250 μm.

[0069] The coating weight of the applied adhesive layer can range from 1 GSM to approximately 100 GSM.

[0070] Other application methods Adhesive seal of film onto the panel This product uses the same materials and scope as the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film described above, the main difference being the method by which the product seals the containers holding fruits and / or vegetables. Instead of heat-sealing the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film onto the containers, an adhesive is applied to either the container or the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film, and then the film is applied to the containers, thereby forming a seal. In this case, the SO2-generating multilayer laminate film does not require a heat-sealable layer, although a heat-sealable layer may still be used. The adhesive used may be any food-safe adhesive, including cold-seal adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and peelable adhesives. [Examples]

[0071] Example 1 Heat-sealed products The following preservation and / or fungal-inhibiting heat-seal devices were tested in a blueberry experiment.

[0072] 1. A heat-sealable PET film consisting of a perforated first layer, approximately 5 to 20 microns thick, laminated onto a second layer of non-perforated PET film, approximately 5 to 20 microns thick, using an adhesive mixture having 45% to 60% SMBS to 40% to 55% adhesive, with a coating weight of approximately 15 to 30 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20 to 50 microns. Perforation diameter of 1 mm to 5 mm used - HS8.1.

[0073] 2. A first layer of heat-sealable PET film strip perforated (having a 50 mm unperforated section over the length of the panel) of approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thick is laminated to a second layer of unperforated PET film of approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thickness using an adhesive mixture having 45% to 60% SMBS to 40% to 55% adhesive, with a coating weight of approximately 15 to 30 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20 to 50 microns. Perforation diameter of 1 mm to 5 mm used - HS8.2.

[0074] 3. A first layer of heat-sealable PET film, approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thick, laminated to a second layer of non-perforated PET film, approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thick, using an adhesive mixture having 45% to 60% SMBS to 40% to 55% adhesive, with a coating weight of approximately 10 to 20 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20 to 50 microns - HS7.1.

[0075] 4. A first layer of heat-sealable PET film, approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thick, laminated to a second layer of non-perforated PET film, approximately 5 to approximately 20 microns thick, using an adhesive mixture having 45% to 60% SMBS to 40% to 55% adhesive, with a coating weight of approximately 12 to 20 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20 to 50 microns - HS7.2.

[0076] Pathological examination Materials and methods The effectiveness of heat-seal prototypes selected from the above was tested in vitro by exposing Botrytis and Alternaria spores and mycelial plugs to this technology. This was performed three times for each pathogen and 7-day treatment period.

[0077] result The results are shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0078] Blueberry Test Materials and methods Preparation of pathogen inoculum To obtain a spore suspension from Botrytis cinerea, the fungus is fermented into potato dextrose agar (39g·L -1The spores were grown on PDA (Merck) at 20°C for 7 days. 10 mL of sterile distilled water was added to the culture plate, and the spores were collected from the plate surface by gently scraping the surface with a sterile hockey stick. The collected spore suspension was then filtered through a single-layer sterile coffee filter to prepare the stock solution. The spore concentration was counted using a hemocytometer. The inoculum was prepared on the same day as the fruit inoculation.

[0079] infection technology Approximately 200 blueberries were wounded three times using a sterile wound maker. The wounded berries were placed in a pulp tray and inoculated with a freshly prepared B. cinerea suspension by spray application. The berries were sprayed until the spore suspension flowed out. These berries were air-dried in laminar flow for 45 minutes. To promote spore germination, the pulp trays containing the inoculated berries were placed in a black bag with a damp paper towel to increase humidity and stored at 20°C for 22 hours.

[0080] Plant materials and storage conditions Blueberries were obtained and stored at 4°C upon delivery. Twelve heat-sealed panets were used for each treatment. Eight of these panets were filled with two blueberry clamshells to create 300g heat-sealed panets, and four were filled with five blueberry clamshells to create 750g heat-sealed panets. This was done to monitor the effect of berry quantity on efficacy. Two inoculated berries were then filled into each heat-sealed panet, heat-sealed according to the treatments listed in Table 1, and stored at a low temperature of 4°C for 3 days. Treatments and controls were stored in separate storage rooms. After 3 days of low-temperature storage, two 300g heat-sealed panets and one 750g heat-sealed panet were evaluated for each treatment. The remaining panets were stored at 10°C, and sets similar to those stored for 3 days were evaluated after 3, 5, and 7 days to simulate retail storage.

[0081] [Table 1]

[0082] Results and Discussion Figures 3 and 4 show the spoilage rates of 300g and 750g heat-sealed Panettes, respectively. The spoilage rate increased over time. When evaluated after 3 days of cold storage, the initial spoilage rate was low, but it increased with increasing storage time. By the end of the storage period, the untreated control had a greater spoilage rate compared to all treatments. Figure 3 shows that all berries treated with different heat-seal films had a lower spoilage rate compared to the control. Treatment with full micro-perforation and strip micro-perforation without extra venting were most effective for 300g Panettes during storage, with or without extra venting. In Figure 4, the minimum amount of spoilage was detected with the full micro-perforation treatment, and the maximum amount of spoilage was observed with the strip micro-perforation + venting treatment compared to other treatments when the Panettes were filled to 750g.

[0083] The inhibitory efficacy of each treatment was calculated as the weight of spoiled berries relative to the weight of untreated control berries. After 3 days of cold storage, the highest inhibition rate was detected in 750g Panet treated with fully microperforated heat-seal film. This treatment also exhibited the highest spoilage inhibition over various storage intervals. In 300g Panet, the highest spoilage inhibition after 3 days of cold storage was observed in both fully microperforated and strip microperforated + perforated treatments. However, throughout the storage period, the strip microperforated treatment showed the highest average spoilage inhibition rate, followed by the fully microperforated treatment. The spoilage inhibition rate was inversely linear with the rate of spoilage occurrence; therefore, the inhibition rate results correspond to the rate of spoilage occurrence (Table 2).

[0084] [Table 2]

[0085] conclusion The results obtained from the tests indicate that the various prototypes evaluated are effective for various gram amounts of berries. The fully microperforated film was most effective in suppressing berry spoilage in 750g panets. On the other hand, the test results reflect that all berries treated with the various heat-seal films showed less spoilage compared to the control stored in 300g panets. A correlation was drawn between spoilage occurrence and SO2 emissions. Treatments with higher SO2 emissions resulted in less spoilage, indicating that the released SO2 suppressed the growth of Botrytis in the berries. Studies have shown that SO2 limits the production of pathogen proteins and enzymes necessary for development. Therefore, SO2 emissions were higher in 750g panets compared to emissions detected in 300g panets. This smaller headspace (the space between the berries and the heat-seal film) resulted in a smaller volume from which SO2 gas particles were released, and consequently, a higher SO2 gas concentration was constructed.

[0086] Example 2 Flow Wrap Products This product uses the same materials and range, but the main difference is the application method. It is not sealed over the panetto; instead, it is flow-wrapped over the panetto and sealed to itself, completely enclosing the panetto containing the berries with the laminate product.

[0087] The following tests using the flow wrap device were conducted using a BlackBerry.

[0088] 1. A first layer of 10-20 micron BOPP - FSL7 - laminated onto a second layer of 10-20 micron BOPP with an adhesive mixture having 45%-60% SMBS and 40%-55% adhesive, having a coating weight of approximately 10-20 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20-50 microns.

[0089] 2. A first layer of 15-25 micron BOPP - FSL8 - laminated onto a second layer of 15-25 micron BOPP with an adhesive mixture having 45%-60% SMBS and 40%-55% adhesive, having a coating weight of approximately 10-20 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20-50 microns.

[0090] 3. A first layer of 20-40 micron BOPP - FSL9 - laminated onto a second layer of 20-40 micron BOPP with an adhesive mixture having 45%-60% SMBS and 40%-55% adhesive, having a coating weight of approximately 10-20 GSM and an SMSB particle size of approximately 20-50 microns.

[0091] Florap Pathology Examination Materials and methods In this particular embodiment, panets containing 125g of blackberries were manually flow-wrapped by cutting SO2 film, tested to size, and wrapping these around the panets. The film was then sealed around the panets using a heat-sealing machine. The blackberry panets were initially kept in cold storage at 2°C for up to 5 days, after which the flow-wrapping treatment was applied, and the flow-wrapped panets were stored at a storage temperature of 15°C for a further 7 days. However, it should be noted that flow-wrapping can be applied immediately after harvest, and this is likely to be the preferred method.

[0092] result The results are shown in Figure 5.

[0093] Example 3

[0094] [Table 3]

[0095] 1. Introduction Blueberry fruit crops are primarily sold fresh worldwide, and the most effective way to minimize short-term losses is cold storage. With a significant increase in global blueberry demand, the blueberry industry is under immense pressure to find ways to extend the shelf life of the crop, which could lead to increased market opportunities and exports. Blueberries are perishable and spoil easily, and fruit rot caused by fungal pathogens is a major limiting factor in the storage and preservation of blueberries. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas is commonly used with table grapes to prevent spoilage during storage by initially fumigating the fruit from the field, followed by weekly fumigation of the storage room or the presence of in-packaging pads containing sodium metabisulfite. These SO2 sheets consist of a series of laminated plastic membranes bonded together by either wax or a solvent-free adhesive layer containing precise SMBS concentration and particle size. Moisture within the fruit packaging is absorbed by the sheets and reacts with sulfites to produce SO2.

[0096] In recent years, the use of SO2 gas has been considered as a post-harvest solution to blueberry rot. However, to maximize the potential of this technology, several factors must be considered, as the dynamics of the SO2 release sheet may be affected. These factors include fruit quality, sufficient exposure time and concentration, time elapsed from harvest to gasification, temperature and relative humidity (RH) of the packaging and storage room, fruit variety, packaging material, amount of berries and available space in the carton, and handling of the cold chain during storage. The type and method of SO2 generation must be carefully selected, as high concentrations of gas can affect the physiological, chemical, and sensory properties of the fruit, and high doses can be harmful to humans and the environment.

[0097] Considering the above, the experiment aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various heat seal and flow wrap films in reducing Botrytis rot in blueberries without affecting other quality parameters.

[0098] 2. Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of PET heat seal and flow wrap prototypes against the occurrence of Botrytis spoilage in blueberries during low-temperature storage and retail storage.

[0099] 3. Materials and Methods 3.1.1. Preparation of pathogen inoculum To obtain a spore suspension from Botrytis cinerea, the fungus is fermented into potato dextrose agar (39g·L -1 The spores were grown on PDA (Merck) at 20°C for 7 days. 10 mL of sterile distilled water was added to the culture plate, and the spores were collected from the plate surface by gently scraping the surface with a sterile hockey stick. The collected spore suspension was filtered through a single-layer sterile coffee filter. Spore concentration was counted using a hemocytometer. Inoculum was prepared on the same day as inoculation.

[0100] 3.1.2. Infection techniques Each fruit was wounded using a sterile wound maker. A 20 µl freshly prepared B. cinerea suspension was placed in each wound. These berries were air-dried in laminar flow for 45 minutes.

[0101] 3.1.3. Test Packaging and Storage Conditions High-quality blueberries were obtained from six 33 blueberry growers. For each treatment (Tables 3 and 4), nine heat-sealed panels were used per treatment. A single berry inoculated with Botrytis was placed in each heat-sealed panel containing the blueberries. Pre-cut heat-sealed film for each treatment was placed on top of each panel. For the flow-wrap treatment, the panels were sealed. The berries were transferred to a cold room at 0.5°C. After 7 days at 0.5°C, all panels were removed. Then, one panel from each treatment was taken out for evaluation. The remainder were transferred to 10°C, still with the heat-sealed film and flow-wrap. The same procedure was followed for 4-day and 7-day storage period tests (10°C).

[0102] [Table 4]

[0103] [Table 5]

[0104] 4.Quality measurement 4.1.1. Post-harvest decay The spoiled berries were weighed and expressed as a percentage per sample. In this experiment, no pathogens were identified, and the main focus was on the percentage of unsaleable berries that were generally due to post-harvest spoilage.

[0105] 4.1.2. Sulfur Dioxide / SO2 Emissions Damaged berries were counted and expressed as a percentage per sample. SO2 emissions were measured for each evaluation period.

[0106] 5. Results and Discussion 5.1.1. Post-harvest spoilage Heat seal All products were highly effective against Botrytis. Except for Fast Fresh after a 7-day storage period, there were no significant differences between the treatments, which indicated a significantly greater incidence of spoilage (Figure 6). Both heat seal 8.1 (complete perforation) and 7.1 (thin coating) showed over 80% effectiveness after all storage periods (Figure 7).

[0107] During storage periods of 4–7 days, the occurrence of Botrytis was significantly increased in the control group compared to SO2 treatment. This may be due to the release of SO2 gas over time at the necessary dose by the film disinfecting the berry surface by killing and removing pathogenic spores that actively proliferate during low temperatures and storage periods. The SO2 gas reacts with moisture in the product to form sulfite at low pH. Sulfite (H2SO2) reacts with the cell membrane and blocks microbial enzymes by reducing essential disulfide (-SS-) bonds.

[0108] Flow Wrap All treatments were highly effective against Botrytis growth during and after low-temperature storage. FSL13 was the most effective of the prototypes tested (Figures 8 and 9).

[0109] 5.1.2. Sulfur Dioxide / SO2 Emissions Heat seal The results reflect that no SO2 damage was observed in berries treated with heat seal 8.1 full perforation and heat seal 7.1 thin coating throughout the entire storage period. The 5-layer SO2 sheet-Tomasys heat seal film resulted in the highest damage rate, followed by the 7-layer SO2 sheet-Vivo 1 and the 3-layer SO2 sheet-Fast Fresh (Figure 10).

[0110] Flow Wrap The results reflect that berries treated with FSL12 underwent SO2 damage only during storage, and this damage increased with increasing storage duration. Only FSL13 showed SO2 damage after 7 days. When perforated, FSL12 showed very low or no SO2 damage after 4 and 7 days of storage. Berries treated with the remaining treatments were unsuitable for commercial sale due to high SO2 damage rates (Figure 11).

[0111] 6. Conclusion The results obtained from the tests indicate that the various heat-seal prototypes evaluated were effective against Botrytis outbreaks in berries. Both heat seal 8.1 (complete perforation) and 7.1 (thin coating) showed over 80% effectiveness after all storage periods. During storage periods of 4-7 days, Botrytis outbreaks were significantly increased in the control group compared to SO2 treatment.

[0112] Berries treated with Flowwrap film reflected that all treatments were highly effective against Botrytis outbreaks during cold storage and after the storage period. However, FSL13 was the most effective of the prototypes tested in the Botrytis rot test. FSL12 remained effective but showed reduced effectiveness when perforation was involved.

[0113] In conclusion, both heat-seal prototypes tested have the potential to reduce post-harvest blueberry losses without affecting the appearance or other quality parameters of the blueberries. On the other hand, the flow-wrap prototype needs to include perforations, although it is effective, because it has higher gas release to prevent SO2 damage.

[0114] Example 4

[0115] [Table 6]

[0116] 1. Introduction During storage and transport, fruits and vegetables act as a favorable substrate for fungal pathogens that cause spoilage, rendering the fruit unsuitable for market use and resulting in significant post-harvest economic losses. Botrytis is considered the most important post-harvest fungal pathogen causing significant losses to fresh fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. It can attack a wide range of crops using various modes of infection. The fungus can also develop under conditions during storage, transport, and sale, making disease control difficult. Harvested crops are particularly vulnerable to Botrytis infection because, unlike plant tissues, the harvested goods are aging rather than developing. Another major post-harvest disease causing significant losses is fruit rot caused by Alternaria. This disease is caused by the filamentous fungus Alternaria alternata. If fruit is damaged or weakened during long-term storage, it becomes infected with A. alternata. Control of A. alternata involves the use of fungicides, but the adverse effects of fungicidal residues in edible fruits and vegetables on human health cannot be ruled out, and alternative control products need to be investigated.

[0117] Due to the low health risks and affordability of SO2 sheets, the use of SO2 generating sheets is being widely studied as an alternative to fungicides. In response to industry demand for “active packaging” that can reduce waste of pre-packaged fresh fruits and vegetables, the applicant has attempted to develop SMBS-coated heat-seal and flow-wrap films to protect fresh produce from farm to consumer. These aim to maintain fruit quality, extend shelf life, prevent spoilage, and promote the reduction of food loss and waste. The proposed technology relates to SMBS-coated heat-seal or flow-wrap films for use with Panette, and therefore differs from currently used commercial technologies in the form of SO2 pads. Unlike existing heat-seal and flow-wrap films, the novel SMBS-coated products are biodegradable or 100% recyclable. Because this technology is new and intended for use with fresh tomatoes, understanding the release profile of the prototype is crucial. Various types of sheets with controlled SO2 content have been developed by the applicant. There are two distinct release stages: rapid and / or slow-release, and the sheets can be available in various sizes. PET heat-sealable and flow-wrap films are preferable because they are recyclable, similar to Panette, which can be used with them. Therefore, the effectiveness of SO2-containing heat-sealable flow-wrap PET films against Botrytis was investigated.

[0118] 2. Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of PET heat seal and flow wrap prototypes against the occurrence of Botrytis rot in tomatoes during cold storage and retail storage.

[0119] 3. Materials and Methods 3.1.1. Preparation of pathogen inoculum To obtain a spore suspension from Botrytis cinerea, the fungus is fermented into potato dextrose agar (39g·L -1The spores were grown on PDA (Merck) at 20°C for 7 days. 10 mL of sterile distilled water was added to the culture plate, and the spores were collected from the plate surface by gently scraping the surface with a sterile hockey stick. The collected spore suspension was filtered through a single-layer sterile coffee filter. Spore concentration was counted using a hemocytometer. Inoculum was prepared on the same day as inoculation.

[0120] 3.1.2. Infection techniques Each tomato was wounded using a sterile wound maker. A 20 µl freshly prepared B. cinerea suspension was placed in each wound. These tomatoes were air-dried in laminar flow for 45 minutes.

[0121] 3.1.3. Test Packaging and Storage Conditions For each treatment (Tables 5 and 6), nine heat-sealed panels were used per treatment. Tomatoes inoculated with three Botrytis strains were added to each heat-sealed and flow-wrapped panel. Pre-cut heat-sealed film for each treatment was placed on top of the panel. For the flow-wrapped treatment, the panel was sealed with film. The tomato panels were moved to a 10°C low-temperature room. After 7 days at 10°C, all panels were removed. One panel from each treatment was taken out for evaluation. The remaining panels, still with the heat-sealed film and flow-wrapped, were moved to 18°C. The same procedure was followed for 4-day and 7-day storage tests (18°C).

[0122] [Table 7]

[0123] [Table 8]

[0124] 4.Quality measurement 4.1.1. Post-harvest decay To determine the suppression rate, the diameter of the lesions from the inoculation area was measured using a digital caliper.

[0125] 4.1.2. Sulfur dioxide / SO2 emissions Damaged berries were indicated as present / absent.

[0126] 5. Results and Discussion 5.1.1. Post-harvest spoilage Heat seal All five SO2 products were highly effective against Botrytis outbreaks. For specific heat-seal prototypes, there were no significant differences between the two prototypes throughout the entire storage period. While effectiveness decreased with increasing storage duration, both heat seal 8.1 (full perforation) and 7.1 (thin coating) still showed over 70% effectiveness after the entire storage period (Figure 12).

[0127] Flow Wrap Similar results were observed with the flow wrap treatment. The included prototypes were highly effective against Botrytis outbreaks after cold storage and a 4-day storage period. However, as the storage period increased to 7 days, the effectiveness of the specially formulated flow wrap prototypes (T4-T7) decreased significantly. This trend was more pronounced when perforations were added to FSL12. This prototype with four perforations was the least effective of all treatments. FSL13 was the most effective prototype throughout all storage periods (Figure 13).

[0128] 5.1.2. Sulfur dioxide / SO2 release Heat seal The results reflect that tomatoes treated with Heat Seal 8.1 full perforation showed only slight signs of SO2 damage (Table 7). Heat Seal 7.1 thin coating showed no SO2 damage throughout the entire storage period. However, 7-layer SO2 sheet-Vivo 1, 3-layer SO2 sheet-Fast Fresh, and 5-layer SO2 sheet-Tomasys resulted in fruit that was not marketable due to severe SO2 damage.

[0129] Flow Wrap Due to the high emissions from the flow wrap treatment, the results reflect more severe SO2 damage, particularly with the 7-layer SO2 sheet-Vivo 1, 3-layer SO2 sheet-Fast Fresh, and 5-layer SO2 sheet-Tomasys treatments. Tomatoes treated with FSL12, FSL12+2 holes, and FSL13 experienced only slight SO2 damage throughout the entire storage period. FSL12 showed no SO2 damage when punctured with 4 holes.

[0130] [Table 9]

[0131] 6. Conclusion The results obtained from the tests indicate that the various heat-seal prototypes evaluated are effective against Botrytis infestation in tomatoes. Both heat seal 8.1 (complete perforation) and 7.1 (thin coating) showed over 70% effectiveness after all storage periods. Effectiveness decreased as the storage period increased to 7 days, but this was not statistically significant. Tomatoes treated with Flowwrap film showed that FSL12 and 13 were very effective. However, FSL12's effectiveness decreased as the storage period was extended with increasing perforation.

[0132] Therefore, this study reflects that SO2 damage can be most successfully limited with low-perforation flow wrap bags.

[0133] In conclusion, this test reflects that 7.1 (thin coating) heat seal and FSL12+2 hole flow wrap may be suitable products for reducing post-harvest tomato loss without affecting other quality parameters.

Claims

1. A preservation and / or antifungal device for use with fresh fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, soft fruits, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, comprising a packaging container including a panet for containing the fruits and / or vegetables, and sulfur dioxide (SO4). ２ ) A multilayer laminate film that, when the fruits and / or vegetables are packaged in the packaging container, is adapted to seal the packaging container through a sealable contact between a first operably inward-facing layer of the multilayer laminate film and the open end of the packaging container, and sulfur dioxide (SO4) ２ ) comprising a generated multilayer laminate film and the SO ２ The resulting multilayer laminate film is (i) A first operably inward-facing layer and a second operably outward-facing layer, A. thermoplastic material, B. A material coated with a thermoplastic coating comprising a binder containing a copolymer-containing aqueous emulsion, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a heat-seal lacquer selected from a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler, or C. Paper without non-thermoplastic polymer or thermoplastic coating A first operably inward-facing layer and a second operably outward-facing layer, each composed of a material selected from, (ii) An internal adhesive layer between the first layer and the second layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, comprising: a polyurethane adhesive composition comprising a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition at a concentration of about 30% to about 90% by weight / weight (w / w) or any partial range contained therein; an adhesive composition comprising sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein; and optionally, an internal adhesive layer comprising a chemical ethylene scrubber selected from the group comprising potassium permanganate, zeolite, activated carbon, or pumice. Includes, If the first operably inward-facing layer comprises a material selected from a non-thermoplastic polymer or paper without a thermoplastic coating, the edge of the inward-facing layer that operably contacts the edge of the open end of the packaging container or the edge of the inward-facing layer that operably contacts the edge of the open end of the packaging container is coated with an adhesive including a cold-seal adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive or a peelable adhesive, in a storage and / or antifungal device.

2. The storage and / or antifungal device according to claim 1, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer is selected from the group including paper containing kraft or machine-glazed bleached kraft (MGBK) paper, biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polyolefin film, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester film, and the first and second layers are made of the same or different materials.

3. The first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are (i) A polyolefin film layer in the range of approximately 9 μm to 150 μm or any sub-range within that range, (ii) Paper layers in the range of approximately 13 GSM to 300 GSM or any sub-range within that range, (iii) Polyester film in the range of approximately 3 μm to 100 μm or any sub-range within that range. A storage and / or antifungal device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the above.

4. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the polyolefin film or polyester film layer of the first operably inward-facing layer is made of the heat-sealable material or has the heat-seal lacquer applied thereto.

5. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the paper layer of the first operably inward-facing layer is coated with a heat-seal lacquer or adhesive to enable it to be sealed to the packaging container.

6. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the packaging container is made of a substrate including a recycled substrate selected from the group including foil, a polymer including PET or BOPP, or paper, pulp or cardboard.

7. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are microperforated, and the diameter of the microperforations is in the range of about 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any partial range contained therein.

8. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are macroperforated, and the diameter of the macroperforations is in the range of about 2 to 100 mm or any partial range contained therein.

9. The aforementioned SO ２ The storage and / or antifungal device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the generated multilayer laminate film comprises selected regions or zones having microperforations and selected regions or zones having macroperforations.

10. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein either or both of the first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer are treated with one or more additional treatments selected from the group including anti-fogging treatment, corona treatment, or chemical treatment for ink adhesion.

11. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer are composed of a substantially transparent polymer.

12. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition has a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w), and the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microgranules have a diameter of about 10 μm to about 70 μm or about 20 μm to about 50 μm and a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w).

13. The paper is coated on one or both surfaces with one or more of the following: a WVTR or OTR controlled coating or a hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or primer coating, or the paper is not coated, according to any one of claims 1 to 12, for the storage and / or antifungal device.

14. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the paper is coated on one or both surfaces with a polyolefin film containing BOPP, LDPE, or HDPE, or a polyester film containing PET, and thereby, if the paper is coated on one surface, the internal adhesive layer is coated on the coated surface of the paper.

15. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the thickness of the first or second polyolefin film layer is in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm, and the thickness of the first or second polyester film layer is in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm.

16. A preservation and / or antifungal device for use during the transport or storage of fresh fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, soft fruits, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, comprising a packaging container including a panet for containing the fruits and / or vegetables, and sulfur dioxide (SO4). ２ ) A multilayer laminate film made of sulfur dioxide (SO4) adapted to flow wrap the packaging container with the multilayer laminate film such that when the fruit and / or vegetables are packaged in the container, the first operably inward-facing layer of the multilayer laminate film contacts the open end of the container. ２ ) comprising a generated multilayer laminate film and the SO ２ The resulting multilayer laminate film is (i) The first operably inward-facing layer and the second operably outward-facing layer, each composed of a polymer selected from the group including biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polyolefin film, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester film, (ii) An internal adhesive layer between the first layer and the second layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, further comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition having a concentration of about 30% to about 90% by weight / weight (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, an adhesive composition comprising sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, and optionally comprising a chemical ethylene scrubber selected from the group comprising potassium permanganate, zeolite, activated carbon, or pumice. A storage and / or antifungal device, including one.

17. The storage and / or antifungal device according to claim 16, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are composed of a polyolefin film layer in the range of about 9 μm to 150 μm or any partial range contained therein, or a polyester film in the range of about 3 μm to 100 μm or any partial range contained therein.

18. The solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition has a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, and the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microgranules have a diameter of about 10 μm to about 70 μm or about 20 μm to about 50 μm or any partial range contained therein, and have a concentration of about 40% to about 80% (w / w) or about 50% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, according to claim 16 or 17, for the storage and / or antifungal device.

19. The storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the thickness of the first or second polyolefin film layer is in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any partial range thereof, and the thickness of the first or second polyester film layer is in the range of 10 μm to 50 μm or 10 to 30 μm or any partial range thereof.

20. SO for use in the storage and / or antifungal device of the present invention ２ A method for producing a multilayer laminate film, (i) A first operably inwardly facing layer, A. thermoplastic material, B. A material coated with a thermoplastic coating comprising a binder containing a copolymer-containing aqueous emulsion, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a heat-seal lacquer selected from a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler, or C. Paper without non-thermoplastic polymer or thermoplastic coating A step of providing a first operably inward-facing layer composed of, (ii) A step of applying an adhesive layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any partial range contained therein, comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition comprising a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition at a concentration of about 30% to about 90% by weight / weight (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) fine granules having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm or any partial range contained therein at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any partial range contained therein, onto the first substrate material layer using a laminating or coating machine; (iii) A second operably outward-facing layer, A. thermoplastic material, B. A material coated with a thermoplastic coating comprising a binder containing a copolymer-containing aqueous emulsion, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a heat-seal lacquer selected from a solvent-free polyester resin or aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler, or C. Paper without non-thermoplastic polymer or thermoplastic coating A step of stacking a second operably outward-facing layer, composed of the above, on top of the adhesive layer using a laminating machine such that the adhesive layer is sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer. A method that includes this.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising the additional step of coating the operably inward-facing surface of the first layer with a thermoplastic coating comprising a heat-seal lacquer selected from a binder comprising an aqueous emulsion containing a copolymer, an inorganic crosslinking agent, a solvent-free polyester resin or an aqueous copolyester dispersion and a filler, if the first operably inward-facing layer comprises a material selected from a non-thermoplastic polymer or paper without a thermoplastic coating.

22. The method according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the adhesive layer further comprises a chemical ethylene scrubber selected from the group including potassium permanganate, zeolite, activated carbon, or pumice.

23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer is made of paper including kraft or MGBK paper, a polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, HDPE, or a polyester film including PET, and the first and second layers are made of the same or different materials.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the thickness of the first operably inward-facing paper layer and / or the second operably outward-facing paper layer is in the range of about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM or any partial range included therein, the thickness of the first operably inward-facing polyolefin layer and / or the second operably outward-facing polyolefin film layer is in the range of 9 μm to 150 μm or any partial range included therein, and the thickness of the first operably inward-facing polyester layer and / or the second operably outward-facing polyester film layer is in the range of 3 μm to 100 μm or any partial range included therein.

25. The first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are the SO ２ The method according to any one of claims 20 to 24, further comprising a step of micro-perforating by hot needle punching, cold needle punching or laser punching, either before or after the lamination of the layers for forming the generative multilayer laminate film.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the diameter of the micro-perforation is in the range of approximately 0.05 to 2.8 mm or any partial range included therein.

27. The first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer is the SO ２ The method according to any one of claims 20 to 24, further comprising a step of macro-perforating, including by hot needle perforation, cold needle perforation or laser perforation, either before or after lamination of the layers for forming the generated multilayer laminate film.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the diameter of the macro-perforation is in the range of approximately 2 to 100 mm or any partial range included therein.

29. The first operably inward-facing layer and / or the second operably outward-facing layer are subjected to both micro and macro perforations, and the micro and / or macro perforations are as desired by the user, the SO ２ The method according to any one of claims 20 to 28, comprising the step of placing in a region or zone of the generated multilayer laminate film.

30. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 29, further comprising one or more steps of a treatment including anti-fogging treatment, corona treatment, or chemical treatment for ink adhesion.

31. A method for preserving fresh fruits and / or vegetables, including tomatoes, grapes, soft fruits, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, which are packaged in a container or panette, or for inhibiting fungal growth in them, using a preservation and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

32. A storage and / or antifungal device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, substantially described herein with reference to any one of the exemplary embodiments.

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