Constar International claims that its DiamondClear system, which is blended into polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging, has been cleared for use in a number of shelf-stable products like tomato ketchup, salsas, pasta sauces, and jams.
Oxygen scavenging properties are increasingly important to manufacturers as a means of protecting food from mould growth and other effects of oxidisation.
A spokesperson for the company told FoodProductionDaily.com that the product had now been commercially available for 12 months after obtaining limited FDA approval in January 2007, with two leading ketchup manufacturers in North America using it.
They claim that in obtaining the new FDA approval, the company can now target a number of new markets for their packaging material.
"We have FDA clearance for virtually all food and beverage products," the spokesperson stated.
"There are no safety concerns with DiamondClear PET barrier material."
Company vice president Donald Deubel, said that beyond extending the applications of DiamondClear material for food and beverage manufacturers, it could also tap into the growing need for sustainable packaging.
According to the company, PET containers made with the DiamondClear also are a sustainable alternative to glass packaging, by offering a light weight, unbreakable and recyclable material.
Constar International added that besides functionality, the product has also been designed to offer packagers aesthetic benefits as well.
"DiamondClear than has the added benefit of glass like clarity and high gloss, which makes the package far more attractive," the spokesperson claimed .
"This combination makes it a perfect package to replace glass in many food applications."
In considering possible international expansion for the product, the company said it was not sure about the current regulatory situations as some countries comply with FDA approvals, while others did not.
It added that the barrier material is currently available in Australia under license.