Screening of volatile organic compounds emitted from different packaging materials: case study on fresh-cut artichokes

In the present work, emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from plastic packaging materials and their migration to packaged product was investigated. Fresh-cut artichokes were chosen as a case study owing nutritional profile, including phenolic compounds, antioxidants, inulin fiber, high market demand. Artichokes cut into quarters, in active modified atmosphere (5% O 2 10% CO ) three different micro-perforated (MP) packages (polypropylene (PP), polypropylene/polyamide (PP/PA) polylactic acid (PLA)) stored for 10 days at 5° C. For detection VOCs on product, approaches considered. First, emitted piece package extracted by solid phase micro extraction (SPME), 30°C, analyzed gas-chromatography coupled mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Second, headspace empty closed bag SPME, 5°C, understand if any compound transferred this temperature condition. Finally, also SPME/GC–MS detect presence volatiles compared fresh product. Emitted according material; particular PP/PA greatest number VOCs, most them belonging class branched alkanes alkenes, such 4-methyl-heptane, 2,4-dimethyl-heptane, 4-methyl-octane 2,4 dimethyl heptene; PP octane, aldehydes, 1-metoxy-2-propanol; PLA aldehydes propanoic acid. Some found bags well artichokes, while they not samples before packaging, suggesting that contact with food effect storage conditions is very critical better understanding issue.