MATERIALS / RECYCLING PETplanet Insider Vol. 27 No. 01+02/26 www.petpla.net 38 Why AA scavenger solutions are critical for high-temperature markets AA scavengers for bottled water in MEA In bottled water, packaging performance – especially PET’s ability to preserve taste neutrality during storage and distribution – has become a key factor in product quality. Among the technical challenges associated with PET packaging, acetaldehyde (AA) migration stands out as one of the most critical. While AA is well understood within the industry, its impact becomes significantly more pronounced in regions exposed to sustained high temperatures, notably across the Middle East and Africa. Acetaldehyde forms during PET production and high-temperature processing. While it can enhance flavour in some beverages, even very low levels cause off-taste or odour in bottled water, making strict AA control essential due to high consumer sensitivity. Why acetaldehyde control is critical: AA is generated during PET processing; Bottled water is highly sensitive to AA migration; Even minimal AA can affect taste perception; Taste inconsistency directly affects impacts brand trust. The PET industry has reduced acetaldehyde (AA) levels through improved resin grades, optimised moulding processes, and better preform and thermal designs. While these measures lower AA at production, they do not fully prevent AA migration over time, especially under heat exposure in hot climates. In the Middle East and Africa, ambient temperatures frequently reach 35 °C to 45 °C and can exceed these levels during peak seasons. Bottled water is often stored or transported under direct sunlight, sometimes for extended periods. Elevated temperatures increase polymer chain mobility within PET, accelerating acetaldehyde diffusion from the bottle wall into the water. Under these conditions, conventional AA reduction strategies may lose effectiveness over the product’s shelf life, leading to taste variability despite acceptable AA levels at filling. High temperatures, sunlight exposure, long storage times, and warm climates increase acetaldehyde diffusion and the risk of quality issues. AA scavenger additives actively bind and neutralise residual acetaldehyde in PET, preventing its migration over time and addressing limitations of process-based reduction methods. Modern AA scavengers remain effective under prolonged heat and provide continuous protection against acetaldehyde throughout storage, distribution, and retail, especially in high-temperature markets. Advanced scavenger performance in hot-climate conditions To meet the demands of these environments, additive developers have focused on scavenger technologies capable of sustained performance. Ventura Horizon Limited, has developed AA scavenger solutions specifically engineered for high-temperature markets. These systems are designed to enhance PET stability and reduce acetaldehyde migration under realworld conditions. When incorporated into the preform manufacturing process, advanced scavenger solutions can reduce AA levels by up to 80%, while remaining compatible with both virgin PET and higher recycled content formulations. As bottled water producers increase rPET use to meet sustainability goals, AA variability can rise. AA scavenger solutions help stabilise taste and quality, making them a key element of modern PET packaging strategies. www.venturahorizon.co
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