A-63: Differentiated total package oxygen (TPO) measurement for improved packaging and product quality

F. VERKOELEN (1); (1) Pentair Haffmans, Venlo, Netherlands

Poster

Preventing oxygen (O2) pick-up during the production and packaging of beer and soft drinks is paramount for preserving product quality (freshness) and taste stability and increasing shelf life. As a result, beer and beverages are produced and packaged with increasingly narrow O2 content targets. Differentiated measurement is critical to controlling the TPO. The direct measurement of both dissolved oxygen (DO) and headspace oxygen (HSO) in a package provides immediate insight into the performance of the filling and packaging processes. This allows the operator to be certain about both O2 levels in the packaged product and act accordingly when the strict targets are not met. In addition, the process manager can schedule maintenance as needed to maintain high-quality standards. Special attention has been paid to the influence of antioxidants on the measurement results obtained by the traditional (DO*Z) TPO method, as well as to the effect of O2 on flavor stability in bottle-conditioned beers. This measuring system clearly points out the connection between both DO and HSO on one hand and the filling process steps on the other. Do’s and don’ts and additional points of attention that will help operators reach the narrow O2 content targets are provided. Uncertainty of measurement due to antioxidants is expressed. Measurement accuracy can be improved using the differentiated TPO measurement method, which in turn can lead to improved filler management and product quality.

Frank Verkoelen studied mechanical engineering at HTS Venlo, finishing in 1982. Frank began working for Haffmans BV in 1984 and has held the following positions: CO2 recovery project engineer; R&D (1987) and R&D manager; product manager for quality control instruments (2001); and senior product manager responsible for sales of QC and in-line equipment. Frank currently is serving as the manager strategic projects for QC and in-line equipment.

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