Sorption of β-carotene from solutions of a food colorant powder into low-density polyethylene and its effect on the adhesion between layers in laminated packaging material

Solutions of different concentrations of β-carotene (1–100 ppm) were stored in laminated packaging material at 4 °C and 25 °C for 8 weeks. Sorption of β-carotene into low-density polyethylene was three times higher at 25 °C than at 4 °C. However, only about 1–2% of the total amount of β-carotene was sorbed at 25 °C. The adhesion between the plastic and aluminium layers of the packaging material decreased during the storage, but total delamination never occurred. The effect was more pronounced at the higher temperature and with increasing concentrations. Advancing and receding contact angles of the aluminium surface increased during the experimental period, indicating surface contamination.