Flexible Oil Packaging To Protect Oils & Vanaspati
Edible oils and hydrogenated fats (vanaspati) are extensively used in human diet. About 55% of vegetable oil consumed in India is imported, making India the world's leading importer ahead of China and the EU. Bulk quantities are packed and transported in expensive in containers and galvanised iron drums, and sold loose by retail vendors. This practice gives scope for adulteration which has been a cause of ill health in India and many other countries. Governments have been trying to enforce compulsory packing of edible oils in inexpensive plastic unit packages. Distribution of oils/fats in unit consumer packs is increasingly becoming popular as it assures quality product packed under hygienic conditions. In view of their logistic advantages such as light weight, reduced material cost, low storage & handling costs and convenient shapes, flexible packaging is replacing conventional bulk packs. (Source: icpe.in) In fact, the use of flexible pouches has made it possible for organised brand owners to penetrate the rural markets with smaller SKUs. This has allowed manufacturers to pass on price reductions to consumers. Edible oils are highly susceptible to deterioration, and need to be protected from the following: