6. Conclusion

Identifying target transfer properties for a given application is not trivial. The empirical trial-and-error approach can be time-consuming and costly, with significant risks of error (e.g. choosing a default packaging that may not be adapted to the exact needs of the food). In order to make a suitable choice in terms of transfer properties (i.e. to 'tailor-make' these properties), computational approaches are possible. These approaches are based on the use of physical laws of diffusion (Fick's law), solubilization (Henry's law) and material balances in the food/packaging system under consideration, using simplifying assumptions (e.g. constant material flow through the packaging).

In most cases, these approaches provide a good estimate of the target transfer properties (e.g. gas or water vapor permeabilities, etc.). When the system becomes more complicated (variable...