In a previous work, oregano essential oil and citral were incorporated in an ethylene–vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) matrix and a preliminary study on the antimicrobial activity of the films and on the sensory attributes of salad was reported. Results showed that the antimicrobial activity increased with concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the film but also increased the sensory perception of off-flavours. EVOH materials have been used recently as matrices for the development of active packaging systems, where the polymer triggers their activity on exposure to a humid environment (the food product)