For moisture-sensitive foods, excess moisture in packages can have detrimental results: for example, caking in powdered products, softening of crispy products such as crackers, and moistening of hygroscopic products such as sweets and candy. Conversely, too much moisture loss from food may result in product desiccation. Moisture control agents help control water activity, thus reducing microbial growth; remove melting water from frozen products and blood or fluids from meat products; prevent condensation from fresh produce; and keep the rate of lipid oxidation in check
The reaction needs of a proper content of humidity and it can be accelerated
by the presence of electrolytes. Catalysts are commonly used and the most
popular is the chlorine ion, which is usually added in the form of salt
These salts have the ability to absorb large amounts of water vapour when the relative humidity exceeds a certain value
these functionalities are able to extent the shelf life and the quality and safety of food. The major
impact of the packaging material on the environment is given by perishable food products like meat,
sausage, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.