Assessment of Packaging Materials for Bulk Packaging of Mustard

Abstract

A study was conducted to develop effective bulk packaging solutions for mustard, focusing on testing various packaging materials with liners and analysing shelf life for export purposes. To maintain the quality of spices, it is crucial to have oxygen and gas barrier properties to preserve aroma. To address this, a novel liner combination has been introduced to evaluate its effectiveness in extending the shelf life of mustard. Mustard was packed in nine types of packaging materials selected based on sustainability aspects and subjected to accelerated climatic conditions (38±1°C and 90±2% RH) for six months. Physico-chemical parameters were measured in triplicate. Throughout the exposure period, moisture content and water activity in the mustard increased exponentially. Significant changes in colour, aroma, and microbial growth were observed in samples packaged in PP woven bags without liners and multiwall paper bags. However, no damage to the packaging materials was noted during transport testing. The maximum shelf life was recorded for mustard packed in PP woven bags with liners and multiwall paper bags with aluminium foil. Hence, the results indicated that exploring advanced liner combinations can significantly enhance the shelf life and maintain the quality of mustard.