Protection of Milk Packaged in High Density Polyethylene Against Photodegradation by Fluorescent Light

Abstract

The effectiveness of visible and UV light screens, compounded in polyethylene dairy resin to protect vitamins in milk from photodegradation, was investigated. Three pigments and three UV absorbers were chosen for testing on the basis of their commercial availability, FDA approval for contact with food, and advertised compatibility with polyolefins. In this study, vitamin decomposition was accelerated over what would be experienced in a commercial milk container in order to expedite the testing program and exaggerate differences in effectiveness of the various light screens. Good protection of vitamin A and riboflavin was provided by 0.3 wt % FD&C yellow #5. Protection of ascorbic acid was marginal. Two of the UV absorbers, Cyasorb 531 and Tinuvin 326, afforded protection of vitamin A, but not riboflavin or ascorbic acid. Visible and UV spectra are presented for the vitamins and light screens used in this work.