MJS Packaging introduces new TPE technology that makes cap sealants safer and sustainable. In the U.S., most sealants for metal lids and caps are manufactured from liquid PVC compounds, which require high temperatures for curing. These PVC-based sealant compounds contain phthalates or other plasticizers that are added to the formulation to increase elasticity and workability, thus softening the seal.
However, these additional materials can be easily removed by grease or liquids and migrate from the packaging into the filled goods.
The European Union has recognized this issue and has banned materials and articles in contact with foodstuffs that may induce any health hazard or unacceptable change in their composition. These products include yogurts and other dairy products in glass. PVC-free closures using thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) technology address this problem and are now available in the U.S.
TPE technology is supplied in granulate form, liquefied using extrusion, and applied directly into the closure. Since the process does not require curing, it saves energy and reduces CO2 emissions and production costs. Implementing this procedure meets the requirements of sustainable production and conservation with a cleaner process that generates less waste. Finally, the safety requirements for food products in glass containers using lug and twist-off metal closures are assured since there is no use of liquid plasticizer for elasticity, thereby minimizing the potential risks for migration of undesirable substances.
MJS Packaging has developed three versions for cold-filling, pasteurization, and sterilization. Sizes are limited with this new technology but will be expanded based on demand.
