Alternative Packaging Research Articles

Characteristic Improvement of a Carrageenan-Based Bionanocomposite Polymer Film Containing Montmorillonite as Food Packaging through the Addition of Silver and Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles.

Plastic has become an essential ingredient in social life, especially in its function as food packaging. An increase in plastic consumption can have a big impact, especially on environmental issues, because of the plastic waste produced. Substituting petroleum-based plastic with bionanocomposites can be done to reduce the impact of environmental issues caused by plastic waste. The purpose of this study is to produce nanoparticle-incorporated bioplastics, which can be applied as alternative food packaging, especially as petroleum-based plastic substitutes, and as food packaging that has added value in the form of antimicrobial properties. In addition, nanoparticles are also intended to improve the characteristics of bioplastics such as improving mechanical properties and film permeability as well as increasing the barrier properties of bioplastics against ultraviolet rays that can damage packaged food. Bionanocomposites with modified forms were investigated by various characterization such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), mechanical property testing of bioplastics as well as analysis of water vapor permeability (WVP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), UV-visible spectrophotometry (UV-vis), and antimicrobial testing. Visible improvement of mechanical and UV barrier properties was seen in bionanocomposites with the addition of cerium nanoparticles. Furthermore, we have also demonstrated the antibacterial activity properties of nanoparticle-loaded bionanocomposites, which can add value to their use as food packaging. These results indicate that carrageenan-based bionanocomposites have a high potential for positive application in food packaging to ensure food safety and extend the shelf life of packaged foods.

Packaging waste and recycle in EU

AbstractNowadays, the use of plastic is very widespread, especially in packaging materials. Most packaging materials are made from fossil-based polymers, which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The unprecedented leakage of single-use plastic waste into the environment is a major problem, with negative impacts on both ecosystems and human health. In this study we examine the development of packaging waste and recycled packaging in the European Union over a period of more than 20 years, highlighting changes in the regulatory context; assess the achievements of Hungary so far and forecast the expected developing of packaging volumes and recycling rates; and consider recycling and waste reduction options, including alternative sustainable packaging options. Our forecast based on the evidence shows that Hungary (47.62%), Germany (61.46%), Malta (26.27%), Romania (58.64%) and Croatia (49.41%) are not expected to reach the target set (65% by 2025) in EU legislation. Out of the 27 countries surveyed, 6 (Belgium 88.2%, the Netherlands 87.81%, Luxembourg 76.96%, the Czech Republic 77.79%, Finland 78.75% and Denmark 83.7%) exceeded the expectations, so we show their waste management and waste recycling good practice, as they can serve as good examples for Hungary and other countries.

The effect of organic and inorganic soil fertility management technologies on smallholder farmers’ net revenue and nutrition security: Evidence from southwest region of Ethiopia

Technologies are better evaluated as packages, i.e., bundles of adoption decisions, rather than a segregate adoption, given the preeminent effect of the combinations on food and nutrition security, productivity, and other welfare outcomes. This study therefore assessed the effect of organic and inorganic soil fertility management technologies on net revenue and Nutrition security of smallholder farmers in Southwest Ethiopia. A multinomial endogenous switching regression (MESR) model, which captures both self-selection bias and the interactions between choices of alternative packages, was applied for this study since farmers’ adoption decisions are likely influenced by unobservable characteristics that may be correlated with the outcomes of interest. The investigation result revealed that, from the three adoption combinations of organic and inorganic soil fertility management technologies, joint adoption of the two technology groups was found to have a significant effect on both net revenue and Nutrition security simultaneously. Unlikely, the isolated adoption of the two soil fertility management technologies may not result in an intended nutrition security outcome. Thus, for the simultaneous improvement in net revenue and nutrition security, the study recommends concentrating on the joint practice of the two organic and inorganic soil fertility management technologies.

Investigation of critical properties of Cassava (Manihot esculenta) peel and bagasse as starch-rich fibrous agro-industrial wastes for biodegradable food packaging.

Cassava peel and bagasse are fibrous, starch-rich agro-industrial wastes, which cause severe environmental impacts upon their disposal. However, these can be raw materials for biodegradable food packaging. In this study, their morphological, chemical, thermal properties, crystalline phases, and chemical compositions were investigated, and potential utilisation as alternative biodegradable food packaging matrices has been assessed. Residual starches in cassava peel and bagasse were morphologically similar with that of commercial cassava starch, whereas potassium (8570±56mg/kg), and calcium (5300±147mg/kg) were highly abounded in peel and bagasse respectively. The major crystalline phase, α-amylose dihydrate, for cassava peel (97.1 (2)%) and bagasse (99.0 (3)%) point towards the presence of starch. Calcium and silicon reported to be in crystalline phases respectively, in the forms of quartz and whewellite. These beneficial characteristics suggested the potential valorisation of cassava peel and bagasse with special interest as matrices for biodegradable food packaging.

Economic evaluation of alternative packaging to plastic for fruits and vegetables

Economic evaluation of alternative packaging to plastic for fruits and vegetables

Formulation and fabrication of biofoam from rice waste as a substitute for styrofoam in food packaging using the thermopress technique

Styrofoam as food packaging has a bad impact on the environment and the human body because it is made of benzene compounds. The purpose of this research is to look for environmentally friendly and safe food packaging alternatives in the form of biofoam made from waste rice plants and tapioca flour as natural adhesives. The biofoam fabrication process as food packaging is done by mixing straw waste that has been mashed with tapioca solution until it is homogeneous and has a higher viscosity, and then printing using a tool. Thermopress uses a pressure of 9,801 MPa (100 kg) with a temperature of 120°C for 14 minutes of pressing. The variations used are the use of mesh 40, 60, and 80 for the level of roughness of rice straw that has been treated in a crusher. The results of Biofoam testing with the three mesh variations 40, 60, and 80 can decompose inside soil for 28 days, and the results of testing with a mesh of 40 found low water absorption resistance with a weight gain of 36%, and the heat resistance test experienced a weight gain of 1.681%, meanwhile, biofoam with a mesh of 60 has added weight after testing water absorption of 23%, and the heat resistance test has a weight gain of 1%. And on biofoam with mesh 80, there was a weight gain after testing water absorption of 15% and resistance to heat with an increase in weight of 1%.

Developing a Biodegradable Film for Packaging with Lignocellulosic Materials from the Amazonian Biodiversity.

The development of packaging films made from renewable raw materials, which cause low environmental impact, has gained attention due to their attractive properties, which have become an exciting option for synthetic films. In this study, cellulose micro/nanofibrils (MFC/NFC) films were produced with forest residues from the Amazon region and evaluated for their potential to generate alternative packaging to traditional plastic packaging. The MFC/NFC were obtained by mechanical fibrillation from fibers of açaí seeds (Euterpe oleracea), titica vine (Heteropsis flexuosa), and commercial pulps of Eucalyptus sp. for comparison. The fibrillation of the titica vine culminated in higher energy expenditure on raw materials. The açaí films showed a higher tensile strength (97.2 MPa) compared to the titica films (46.2 MPa), which also showed a higher permeability rate (637.3 g day-1 m-2). Films of all raw materials scored the highest in the grease resistance test (n° 12). The films produced in the study showed potential for use in packaging for light and low moisture products due to their adequate physical, mechanical, and barrier characteristics. New types of pre-treatments or fibrillation methods ecologically correct and viable for reducing energy consumption must be developed, mainly for a greater success of titica vine fibrillation at the nanoscale.

Alternative Fiber-Based Paperboard Adhesion Evaluation with T- and Y-Peel Testing

Due to increased pressure on the availability of wood biomass in the EU and the regulatory attempts to lower CO2 values, where wood-based biomass plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, the use of cellulose derived from alternative sources is gaining increased interest in the pulp and paper industry as well as in other industries. The processing properties of alternative fiber-based packaging need to be checked in current processing operations with other types of materials and recycling workflows. For example, in the production of folding boxes, after printing other converting properties such as glueability are also of great importance. The adhesive absorption and bonding strength of materials are important as adhesive joints of packaging can interfere with the protective function. In the presented research, three different paperboards produced on a pilot scale from alternative raw material sources were tested. Two paperboards were produced from the alien invasive plants Japanese knotweed and black locust, and one from residual sawdust. The basic paperboard properties were tested regarding paperboard porosity, roughness, z-directional tensile strength, and dynamical behavior regarding liquid interaction (contact angle and liquid penetration dynamic), as water-based adhesives were used in the research. For adhesive joint strength testing, Y- and T-peel adhesion testing was performed on the joint paperboard samples, as still there is no fully standardized method for the evaluation of such fiber-based material properties. The results indicate differences in the penetration dynamics of liquids. This parameter had the highest influence on the peel adhesion strength, while porosity, roughness, and dynamic contact angle were not so significant. Regarding the two adhesive joint tests, the differences in separate materials regarding peel adhesion curves show similar results. However, the Y-peel maximum force values are higher due to the testing setup (in comparison to the T-peel test). The paperboards made from invasive plants showed adhesive joint failures which are more suitable for tamper-proof packaging due to their low surface strength and crack propagation into the fiber structure.

ZnO Nanoparticles-Reinforced Chitosan-Xanthan Gum Blend Novel Film with Enhanced Properties and Degradability for Application in Food Packaging.

Nations all over the world are imposing ban on single-use plastics, which are difficult to recycle and lead to creations of nonsustainable and nondegradable piles. To match the requirement in the market, suitable food packaging alternatives have to be developed that are biodegradable and environment-friendly. The current work is designed for the fabrication of a novel nanocomposite by blending xanthan gum in a chitosan matrix and reinforcing it with ZnO nanoparticles, through a solution casting method. Surface morphology of the film was investigated through field emission scanning electron microscopy, along with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping, and characterized through thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, mechanical testing, and ultraviolet spectroscopy. FTIR spectroscopy analysis corroborated the interaction between the components and the H-bond formation. Polyelectrolyte complex formation materializes between the oppositely charged chitosan and xanthan gum, and further nanoparticle incorporation significantly improves the mechanical properties. The synthesized nanocomposite was found to have increases in the tensile strength and elongation at break of pure chitosan by up to 6.65 and 3.57 times, respectively. The transmittance percentage of the bionanocomposite film was reduced compared to that of the pure chitosan film, which aids in lowering the oxidative damage brought on by UV radiation in packed food products. Moreover, the film also showed an enhanced barrier property against water vapor and oxygen gas. The film was totally biodegradable in soil burial at the end of the second month; it lost almost around 88% of its initial weight. The fabricated film does not pose a threat to the environment and hence has great potential for application in the future sustainable food packaging industry.

Investigation of greenhouse gas emissions from municipal solid waste management practices using an economic input-output life cycle analysis approach

The urban solid waste management is gaining attention due to ecological, economic, and demographic factors, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and infrastructure development. There are two main objectives of this work: developing an effective framework to predict the environmental impacts of alternative packaging waste collection rates and estimating the associated environmental emissions, energy consumption, and the materials required for goods and services for the case of Avcilar Municipality in Istanbul City, Türkiye. To achieve these objectives, an Economic Input-Output Life Cycle Assessment model was implemented to assess the impacts of all associated industrial sectors. The results showed that as the amount of packaging waste collection increases, the top two sectors that are responsible for the most emissions are Oil and Gasoline Production and Electricity Production and Supply sectors. In addition, the economic analysis results of the study show that as the packaging waste collection rate increases, the unit packaging waste collection cost decreases. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the environmental emissions of packaging waste management strategies. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of packaging waste management in reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions and promoting more sustainable waste management practices. Policymakers and waste management stakeholders can utilize this framework to identify strategies that minimize environmental impacts and carbon footprints, thereby fostering a transition towards more sustainable waste management options.

The impact of involuntary resettlement on households’ livelihood: A case study of railway infrastructure induced resettlement in South Wello zone of Amhara Region, Ethiopia

The research paper investigates the impact of involuntary displacement on households' livelihoods due to railway infrastructure development projects in Ethiopia. The number of people being displaced due to land acquisition, including railway transportation, has been increasing, and the constitutional provision for compensation and resettlement is often inadequate to alleviate the negative effects of displacement. The study employs a quasi-experimental design with propensity score matching (PSM) to examine the impact of railway infrastructure on households' livelihoods in the South Wello Zone, Ethiopia. The study uses household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The results reveal that involuntary displacement due to a railway project significantly and negatively affects displaced households' livelihoods, including a decrease in income, financial instability, loss of natural resources, and social disintegration due to insufficient compensation payments. The study recommends implementing comprehensive and sustainable compensation and resettlement programs, constructing nearby resettlement environments, involving affected households in decision-making, and mitigating environmental impacts. Local governments should provide alternative packages and fair compensation, and feasibility studies should prioritize households' livelihoods, consider environmental and social impacts, and view involuntary displacement as a last resort.

E-taxonomy, Open Science, and FAIR Principles: A comparison of how taxon descriptions are computerized

Describing and naming are the first steps in a systematist's work in any biodiversity study. Comparing a single specimen with all the published descriptions is often a headache. The oldest solution to facilitate taxon identification was the creation of single-access identification keys. The first example of this is attributed to Lamarck (Lamarck et al. 1815). The first keys were, therefore, paper documents, mostly supplied with the monographs of the taxonomic groups concerned. Their creation and revision took a lot of time. The emergence of computers quickly became a means of facilitating the sorting and accessing of descriptive data. Since the 1960s, new key forms have emerged, as well as programs to assist identification (Goodall 1968, Pankhurst and Aitchison 1975). Descriptions need to be formalized and structured to be understandable by a computer. Thoughts on the structuring of descriptive data quickly emerged, working towards creating a standard. To address this, the Description Language for Taxonomy (DELTA) was ratified in 1986, followed by the SDD (Structured Descriptive Data) in 2005. The DELTA system relied on a data format closely tied to specific software programs. Any changes to the DELTA standard required corresponding modifications to a large amount of software code, making updates difficult. Alternative software packages using different data formats were developed but were not fully compatible with DELTA or with each other, preventing lossless data translation. To overcome these challenges, the SDD data standard was created as an implementation-independent format through international collaboration, allowing for extensibility without disrupting applications and ensuring continued support even if specific implementing programs were discontinued. Since the adoption of the SDD, numerous software programs and other projects have been developed to provide identification methods (e.g., XPER3, Lucid, AbaTax). Unfortunately, the SDD is not always used, as it may not fit in with the unique objectives of each of them. New tools with other structures and methods are emerging, which is great. However, in the context of FAIR data (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable digital assets), no longer using a standard seems to go against the flow. Have our needs changed? How to maintain models for sharing descriptive data that are structured enough to become knowledge allowing comparison, identification, data-mining, and analysis? To provide a starting point for thinking about the future of SDD, we present a comparison of several identification tools. The comparison focuses on their use of descriptors, items/taxa, identifiers, media, logical operators, their expression of doubt, polymorphism, and "multi-states," but also the files supported and the functionalities from the user's point of view.

Novel eco-friendly antimicrobial UV-blocking PBAT/PBS/TiO2 nanocomposite films for improved shelf-life of bananas

Novel nanocomposite poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/polybutylene succinate (PBS) blend films functionalized with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (0, 0.9, 1.8, 2.7, 3.6 and 4.5% w/w) were produced using cast-sheet extrusion. Atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis were used to investigate film morphology and structure. The crystallinity of the films was modified due to interactions between the nanoparticles and the PBAT/PBS blends, as confirmed by FTIR and XRD. Tensile strength and elongation of films slightly reduced with TiO2 addition up to 4.5% in both machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD). The tensile strength of the T5 films was nearly 25% less than the control films. Adding TiO2 gave excellent UV-blocking properties with slightly reduced water vapor by 16.5% and oxygen permeability by 4% for films with maximum loading. The film surface became more hydrophilic, as evidenced by the reduced contact angle. The results, as acquired from turbidity measurements, show that films with 3.6% TiO2 loading and above have high antimicrobial activity against both Bacillus cereus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative). The relative area of microbial growth on agar media exhibited better antibacterial capacity against Escherichia coli than Bacillus cereus, with a sharp reduction of microbial growth at TiO2 contents above 2.7%. Films containing TiO2 (≥0.9%) effectively delayed ripening and increased peel yellowness of packaged bananas during storage for 6 days at room temperature. The developed PBAT/PBS/TiO2 nanocomposites films hence showed enhanced UV-resistance and antimicrobial properties, while maintaining adequate mechanical strength necessary for food packaging. The film is an eco-friendly alternative antimicrobial food packaging to extend the shelf-life of fresh produce.

Triple-function chitosan-based film for pork and shrimp packaging.

A film simultaneously with colorimetric, fluorescent and active functions was engineered using chitosan (CS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the film matrix and curcumin-β-cyclodextrin complex (Cur-β-CD) as the indicator for freshness monitoring and maintaining of pork and shrimp. In addition to the efficacy of prolonging shelf life, the film's color could change from yellow to orange with ΔE>5 and its fluorescence intensity could decrease during storage. The incorporation of PVA significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of CS film with tensile strength of 31.80MPa and elongation at break of 127.22%. The Cur-β-CD improved the antioxidant and antibacterial properties, water contact angle (from 86.3° to 111.2°), water vapor permeability (from 3.28×10-10 g (m s Pa)-1 to 0.42×10-10 g (m s Pa)-1) and mechanical properties of CS/PVA film. These results show the potential of the film as promising alternatives for intelligent and active food packaging.

Bio-based antimicrobial food packaging films based on hydroxypropyl starch/polyvinyl alcohol loaded with the biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles

In the last decades, bio-based active food packaging materials have received much attention. It is known that the utilization of traditional materials for food packaging applications lack some critical characteristics such as resistance to the harmful microbes that cause a damage to the preserved foods. Therefore, the current study aimed to find an alternative packaging films comprises an efficient biopolymers. This research work was designed to prepare film mats using hydroxypropyl starch (HPS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), palmitic acid (PA) and biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). The fabricated films were coded as 1H, 2H, 3H and 4H based on the utilized concentration of ZnONPs. The biosynthesized ZnONPs and the bio-based films loaded with ZnONPs were characterized. The results revealed that ZnONPs exhibited nearly spherical shape and size ∼40 nm. The surface structure of the produced bioactive packaging films exhibited smooth with homogeneous features, excellent mechanical and thermal stability properties. The prepared bioactive packaging film loaded with ZnONPs (4H) exhibited superior antibacterial activity among other films against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 with inhibition zones 15.1 ± 0.76 and 12.1 ± 0.71 mm respectively. Correspondingly, packing film 4H exhibited potential antifungal activity toward Aspergillus niger RCMB 02724, A. flavus RCMB 02782, Penicillium expansum IMI 89372 and Fusarium oxysporum RCMB 001004 with inhibition zones (16 ± 1.0, 22 ± 0.90, 18.0 ± 1.1 and12.3 ± 0.57 mm respectively). Moreover, all prepared films did not show cytotoxicity on the normal cell line (Wi38) and recorded biodegradability properties that reached around 85 % after four weeks in soil. Based on these results, the antimicrobial films comprising HPS/PVA and loaded with the biosynthesized ZnONPs can be considered as a suitable film for food packaging purposes.

The Effects of Plasticizer Types on Properties of Whey-Gelatin Films

Edible film is an alternative packaging that can be applied to food because it has biodegradable properties. The use of plasticizers can be used in the manufacture of edible films to increase the flexibility and densibility of the film. This study aims to determine the effect of plasticizer type on the thickness, WVTR, and moisture content of whey-gelatin film blends. The research was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design with three treatments, treatments that make a difference are tested with Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The treatment used different plasticizer (P1G: Glycerol; P1S: Sorbitol; and P1P: polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400). The properties of whey-gelatin films showed that thickness was at 0.0350-0.0352 mm; the WVTR was at 4.87-6.22 g/m2/day; the water content was at 12.55-15.69%. The use of glycerol as plasticizer produced the best edible film characteristics compared to sorbitol and PEG 400 with a thickness value of 0.0350 mm; WVTR of 6.22 g/mm2/day and moisture content of 12.55%.

Teak Leaves as Wrapping for Beef/Goat Meat in Green Qurban 1444 H at Universitas Syiah Kuala

The use of plastic materials as packaging for Qurban (refers to the act of sacrificing an animal during the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha) meat is indeed more practical, but its characteristic of being non-biodegradable poses environmental problems. Therefore, an alternative packaging solution using plant leaves needs to be explored. Teak leaves, a forestry plant, contain antimicrobial properties that can inhibit the growth of pathogens, thus extending the shelf life of meat at room temperature. This approach has a positive impact on the distribution of Qurban meat, as it maintains quality while being environmentally safe. The utilization of teak leaves as wrapping material for meat is a part of the Green Qurban 1444 H activity at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) in Banda Aceh. The committee is responsible for managing a total of 11 goats and 9 cows, with the meat distributed among 13 villages, resulting in 578 portions. The teak leaves used for wrapping correspond to the respective meat portions. In conclusion, the use of teak leaves in the Green Qurban 1444 H activity at USK serves the dual purpose of supporting the environmentally friendly concept by replacing plastic and maintaining the quality of the meat.

Biopolymer-Based Sustainable Food Packaging Materials: Challenges, Solutions, and Applications.

Biopolymer-based packaging materials have become of greater interest to the world due to their biodegradability, renewability, and biocompatibility. In recent years, numerous biopolymers-such as starch, chitosan, carrageenan, polylactic acid, etc.-have been investigated for their potential application in food packaging. Reinforcement agents such as nanofillers and active agents improve the properties of the biopolymers, making them suitable for active and intelligent packaging. Some of the packaging materials, e.g., cellulose, starch, polylactic acid, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate, are currently used in the packaging industry. The trend of using biopolymers in the packaging industry has increased immensely; therefore, many legislations have been approved by various organizations. This review article describes various challenges and possible solutions associated with food packaging materials. It covers a wide range of biopolymers used in food packaging and the limitations of using them in their pure form. Finally, a SWOT analysis is presented for biopolymers, and the future trends are discussed. Biopolymers are eco-friendly, biodegradable, nontoxic, renewable, and biocompatible alternatives to synthetic packaging materials. Research shows that biopolymer-based packaging materials are of great essence in combined form, and further studies are needed for them to be used as an alternative packaging material.

SUSTAINABLE CIRCULAR PACKAGING DESIGN: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW ON STRATEGIES AND APPLICATIONS IN THE COSMETICS INDUSTRY

AbstractPackaging protects products, keeps their value and reduces waste. This is especially crucial in domains with perishable goods such as food, medicine or cosmetics. But conventional packaging solutions yield negative environmental impacts. In the EU, the largest share of plastics is used for packaging, causing a corresponding footprint. The application of sustainable strategies to packaging should help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and promote the development of sustainable consumption. In this paper, a review is conducted on research that brings together circular economy, packaging design and cosmetics industry, by systematic literature review and content analysis. In addition to the current standards of conventional packaging, packaging alternatives are presented, which are categorised according to the R-strategies Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Alternative flexible plastic packaging for instant coffees

Instant coffees are consumed worldwide and their packages must protect them mainly from moisture gain. Flexible packaging stand-up pouches made by PET/Al foil/LDPE are currently used but, the look for alternative materials is interesting to replace the aluminum foil with reducing costs and focusing on sustainability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the quality loss of freeze-dried and spray-dried (agglomerated and powder) instant coffees during 365 days at 25 °C/75% RH, packaged in five plastic structures: PET (polyethylene terephthalate)/Al (aluminum) foil/LDPE (low density polyethylene), LDPE/HDPE (high density polyethylene)/LDPE, BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene)/BOPP met (metallized)/PP, PET/PET met/LDPE and PET/BOPP met/LDPE. The results were compared with the shelf-life estimated by modeling the moisture sorption isotherms of the products by mathematical models. Results indicated that the lower the barrier to water vapor of the packaging material, the greater the gains in moisture and water activity of the instant coffees and in addition to being thermally less stable. After 365 days of storage, the three soluble coffees still had acceptable characteristics in the five packaging structures, indicating that it is possible to replace the currently used laminate, which contains aluminum foil, with recyclable structures. However, the greatest stability for the coffees was obtained using the alternative structures: BOPP/BOPP met/PP and LDPE/HDPE/LDPE, a result that was in concordance with that obtained by mathematical modeling.