MXPA06009083A

MXPA06009083A - Packages with active agents

Info

Publication number: MXPA06009083A
Application number: MXPA/A/2006/009083A
Authority: MX
Inventors: William P Belias; Toby R Thomas; Nate Kolovich; Paul N Chen
Original assignee: William P Belias; Paul N Chen; Nate Kolovich; Pactiv Corporation; Toby R Thomas
Priority date: 2004-02-10
Filing date: 2006-08-10
Publication date: 2007-04-10

Abstract

Packages with active agents are described. Generally, each disclosed package (10) has a pair of opposing body panels (16, 18) joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides, a reclosable fastener (14) extending along a mouth formed opposite the bottom, and an active agent (50) . The active agent (50) is associated with at least one of the body panels (16, 18) and includes a freshness-extension agent to inhibit spoilage of perishable products disposed in the package and manage, mask, and/or neutralize odors from such products disposed in the package.

Description

PACKAGES WITH ACTIVE AGENTS Field of the Invention The present invention relates to packages and structures and methods for releasing active agents in these packages. More specifically, the present invention relates to active agents, such as freshness-prolonging agents, odor control agents and other functional agents and structures and to methods for releasing these active agents to prolong the freshness of perishable products and for manage or control the odor related to these products arranged within these packages.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The use of packages for a variety of home and industrial purposes has gained wide acceptance. For example, bags and containers are commonly used by commercial entities and consumers to store products and perishable items. Also, for example, bags or wraps are commonly used in industrial environments and homes to collect garbage or waste. Returnable packages, such as food containers with adapted or articulated lids, and bags with push closure fasteners or sliding devices, are of great convenience for suppliers and consumers of previously packaged perishable products, especially for products such as assorted sausages and cheeses where, typically, only a portion of the product is used at any given time. The reclosable packages are also convenient especially for home use to store leftover perishable products. However, a problem with these reclosable packages is that they do not contain any features that serve to prolong the period of time that the perishable product can be stored in the package and remain fresh. In this way, the content of the package may be spoiled sooner and, if so, the content will no longer be suitable for human consumption. The cost of breaking down perishable products is a significant problem for both consumers and commercial users of re-closed packages. An attempt to solve the problem of the decomposition of perishable products has involved the use of laminated tamper-evident seals that are substantially impermeable to oxygen. In this type of system, as soon as the package is opened for the first time, the seal breaks and does not inhibit the decomposition of the perishable product any longer. In this way, this type of system solves only the problem of the decomposition of perishable products before the package is opened initially and does not serve the user in the household who places the remaining perishable products inside the storage bags. Therefore, there is a need for a package with a feature that inhibits the breakdown of perishable products. Packages such as thermoplastic bags or wraps are also commonly used as waste or garbage bags. Generally, these bags are constructed of a structure having two layers of thermoplastic film joined along three sides and having a mouth formed along the fourth side.

This basic structure has been adapted to a variety of sizes and configurations that vary with the proposed use of the bag. A garbage bag or wrapper is often used to collect debris that can and often produces unpleasant odors. To solve this problem, manufacturers have combined a resin with aroma along with one or more polymeric resins during the formation of these bags. Therefore, the scented resin is evenly distributed throughout the bag. This waste bag helps in the masking, neutralization and / or reduction of at least some of the odors. However, these waste bags can present a variety of disadvantages. For example, because the scented resin is distributed throughout the bag, the aroma is not concentrated where it is likely that a user will find unpleasant odors (for example, the mouth of the bag). In addition, manufacturing difficulties can arise from these bags. For example, in order to obtain a desired amount of flavor that is close to the mouth of the bag, it may be necessary for an excess of flavor material to be distributed throughout the rest of the bag, which may result in overpowering of the bag. to Rome. Of course, if an insufficient amount of flavor material is used, the flavor provided may not be adequate to mask, neutralize or reduce unpleasant odors. Additionally, because the scented resin used in these garbage bags is likely to be more expensive than other polymer resins used in the formation of garbage bags, it may be economically undesirable to distribute relatively equal amounts of scented resin throughout the bag. Therefore, there is a need for a package with a feature that controls odor without these disadvantages.

Brief Description of the Invention Packages with active agents are described in this document. Generally, each of the described packages of the present invention has a pair of opposed body panels that are attached along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom that connects the sides, a reclosable fastener which it extends along a mouth formed in a location opposite the bottom and at least one active agent. According to one aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with an agent for freshness extension which is associated with at least one of the body panels of the package for communication with the interior of the package and to inhibit the decomposition of the perishable product disposed therein. The agent for the extension of freshness is included in at least one of a coating, patch, bag and tape applied to at least one of the body panels. Alternatively, the agent for prolonging freshness is distributed in at least one of the body panels. For example, the agent for the prolongation of freshness can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in at least one of the body panels. An isothiocyanate compound, such as allyl isothiocyanate, can be included as the agent for the prolongation of freshness. The agent for prolonging freshness may also include an acid and / or a fragrance. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a structure is provided to selectively initiate the release of the agent for freshness extension. Alternatively, the agent for the prolongation of freshness is released by moisture. According to another aspect of the present invention, a permeable layer for the prolongation of freshness includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The permeable layer for the prolongation of freshness includes a release agent. In some embodiments, a removable cover is provided that removably attaches to at least a portion of the freshness extension layer, in which the freshness extension layer is secured to one of the body panels. of a reclosable package and the removable cover is secured to another of the body panels of the reclosable package.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a barrier layer associated with at least one of the body panels of a reclosable package is provided. The barrier layer is attached to at least one of the body panels via at least one adhesive, a co-extrusion, a thermal seal and a weld. According to another aspect of the invention, a diffusion layer is provided and disposed at a location adjacent to a freshness-prolonging layer that includes the freshness-prolonging agent. The diffusion layer is located closer to the interior of a reclosable package than the layer for the extension of freshness. According to another aspect of the invention, at least one of the body panels of a resealable package defines a perforation extending therethrough and a layer for freshness extension that includes the agent for the extension of freshness is arranged on the outside of at least one of the body panels that are adjacent to the perforation. According to another aspect of the invention, a layer for freshness extension including the freshness extension agent is attached to one of the body panels of a reclosable package. The freshness extension layer includes a single use frangible element extending between and secured to the opposing body panels of the reclosable pack. According to another aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with a first opposed body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second opposed body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a polymeric seal that can be re-close and a polymer structure for the prolongation of freshness. The opposing body panels are joined along a pair of sides and a bottom that connects the sides to form an open mouth at one end and an interior space. The reclosable polymer seal extends along one end of the inner surface of the first and second opposed body panels. The polymeric structure for the prolongation of freshness includes a first polymeric layer which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer. The first polymeric layer is attached to the package in such a way that the agent for prolonging the freshness of the second layer is in communication with the interior space. According to another aspect of the present invention, a structure for the prolongation of freshness is provided with a first polymeric layer which is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the extension of freshness and a removable cover that is removably attached to at least a portion of the second polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer. These and other features of the described packages of the present invention may be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not made to scale, but show only relative dimensions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGURE 1 is a sectional view of a mouth portion of a reclosable pack or pouch with opposed body panels that are attached to respective fin portions according to one embodiment of the present invention. invention; FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of the reclosable package incorporating the mouth portion shown in FIGURE 1 in which the reclosable fastener or zipper has a sliding device mechanism that is open and the single-use breakable element that is partially open according to another embodiment; FIGURE 3a is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag comprising a polymeric structure with a layer according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 3b is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag comprising a polymer structure with two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 3c is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a resealable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 3d is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag comprising a polymeric structure with two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag according to a further embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag according to still another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag according to still a further embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable pack or bag according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 9a is a partial cross-sectional view of a reclosable side of a pack or bag that includes a polymeric structure with four layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 9b is a partial cross-sectional view of a reclosable side of a pack or bag that includes a polymer structure with six layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 10a is a partial cross-sectional view of two sides of a reclosable pack or bag including two polymer structures each comprising two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 10b is a partial cross-sectional view of two sides of a reclosable pack or bag that includes two polymer structures each comprising two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 10c is a partial cross-sectional view of two sides of a reclosable pack or bag that includes two polymer structures each comprising three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE Ia is a partial cross-sectional view of two sides of a resealable package or bag with a polymer structure disposed therebetween, in which the polymer structure includes a breakable element for single use. FIGURE 11b is a partial cross-sectional view showing the resealable package or bag of FIGURE 1 a after rupture of the single-use breakable element; FIGURE 12a is a partial cross-sectional view of two sides of a reclosable pack or bag, in which one side includes a polymeric structure comprising two layers and in which the polymeric structure is connected to the other side by a removable element; and FIGURE 12b is a partial cross-sectional view showing the reclosable pack or bag of FIGURE 12a after removal of the removable element.

Detailed Description The present invention relates to packages, packaging materials and other structures related to an active agent incorporated therein. As such, the invention has applications for various flexible and rigid packages and packages, such as reclosable plastic bags, waste bags and wraps, rigid waste containers, hermetic containers, lunch boxes and packaging and thin sheets of metal for packaging commonly used to pack perishable products or to cover perishable products. As used herein, it can be understood that the term "package" includes any kind of package or package, such as flexible plastic bags and rigid containers, as well as thin sheets of metal and packaging commonly used for packing or storing articles. perishable As used herein, it can be understood that the term "active agent" includes any agent, ingredient or composition that provides an enhancing or beneficial effect within a package or package. An active agent may include an agent for "freshness extension" to prolong the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishable products that are stored in a package, an agent for "odor control" for mask, neutralize and / or reduce odors of the package or other functional agent. Each of the active agents of the present invention can be used in combination with a package. More specifically, each agent for the freshness extension of the present invention can be used to inhibit the decomposition of food products or other perishable products in the package and each odor control agent of the present invention can be used to reduce, neutralize and / or mask package odors. Each of the active agents of the present invention can be disposed in the environment of the package, for example, it can be arranged in the form of a coating, patch, sack or tape that is attached to a component of the package; it can be extruded with a component of the package; it can be sprayed, brushed, coated, laminated or stamped on a component of the package; it can be impregnated within a component of the package; and / or can be distributed in the material of a component of the package, such as in the form of microcapsules. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the freshness-prolonging agents of the present invention may be disposed in the environment of a polymeric bag for storing perishable goods. The polymer bag may be proposed for the consumer to store food products (eg, leftover food products) or applications, such as food packaging operations for "forming, filling and sealing". Polymer bags can include resealable polymer bags that can not be reclosed. Resealable polymer bags are typically manufactured so that they can be resealed via reclosable items or fasteners, such as resealable adhesive or cohesive seals, joined channels and joined notches . The joined channels can be opened and closed by applying pressure with the fingers or by using an auxiliary device, such as a sliding device. Some examples of reclosable polymer bags include the bags described in US Pat. Nos. ,067,208 and 6,147,588 and the North American Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0066985, the contents of these documents are expressly incorporated by reference in this document in their entirety. Furthermore, for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the agents for the freshness extension of the present invention can also be arranged in the environment of a rigid package for storing perishable products., such as bread containers, deli containers, fruit containers, lunch boxes and roast meat containers. Some examples of packages include the containers described in US Patents Nos. 6,042,586, 6,257,401, 6,349,857, 6,644,494, 6,845,878 and US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2004/0074902 and 2005/0000966, the contents of these documents are expressly incorporated into way of reference in this document in its entirety. Additionally for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the odor control agents of the present invention can be used in the environment of bags, wraps and rigid containers for collecting garbage or waste and other containers for collecting articles with undesirable odors, such as like clothes to wash and diapers. These waste bags can include a fastening feature that helps securely close the bag or wrap, forming a handle to carry the bag or wrap to be discarded and / or facilitating the opening of the bag or wrap. Some examples of waste bags include the bags described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0223657, the contents of this document being expressly incorporated by reference in this document in its entirety. Illustrative embodiments will now be described to provide a complete understanding of the packages described and the structures and related active agents. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the packages of the present invention are described in the context of reclosable polymer bags. One or more examples of the illustrative embodiments are shown in the drawings. Those of ordinary experience in the field will understand that each described bag having an active agent can be adapted and modified to provide alternative forms of bags, packages and other packages with active agents for other applications and that other additions and modifications can be made to the active packages and agents described without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the characteristics of the illustrative modalities can be combined, separated, exchanged and / or reordered to generate other modalities. It is proposed that these modifications and variations be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Turning now to the drawings, FIGURE 1 depicts a mouth portion of a reclosable pack 10 with an agent structure 50 containing an active agent. The agent structure 50 is located below a resealable closure arrangement such as a fastener or rack 14. FIGURE 2 shows the reclosable package 10 with the mouth portion shown in FIGURE 1 in a partially open position. With reference to FIGURES 1 and 2, the mouth portion of the reclosable pack 10 includes a pair of first and second opposed body or wall panels 16, 18 that make up a body of the pack 20 and define a space interior 22. Connected with the first body panel 16 is a first channel 24 having a first profile 26 and a first fin portion 28 that extends generally downwardly from the first profile 26. The first body panel 16 has a outer surface 16a and an inner surface 16b. Connected to the second body panel 18 is a second channel 30 having a second profile 32 and a second fin portion 34 that extends generally downward from the second profile 32. The second body panel 18 has an outer surface 18a and a surface interior 18b. The inner surface 16b is attached to the first fin portion 28. The inner surface 18b is attached to the second fin portion 34. It is contemplated that one or more of the fin portions may be attached to the exterior surfaces 16a, 18. The first and second profiles 26, 32 are releasably engaged with each other to provide a reclosable seal for the package 10. An optional breakable element 12 may be used which initially extends from the first fin portion 28 to the second fin portion 34. The breakable element 12 of FIGURE 1 is represented with a preferred, breakable, optionally single-use area of the preferential fragile or tear-off area 38 to form a tamper-evident, breakable, single use feature. It is not necessary for the breakable element 12 to have the preferred breakable area, for single fragile use 38 .. For example, in some embodiments, the breakable element 12 includes a resealable adhesive or a cohesive seal. The breakable preferred area, of fragile single use 38 may be a dotted line, a series of perforations or a highly ored region.

Additionally, the fragile preferred area 38 can be made in a manner for separation by means of a cut through it. The brittle preferential area 38 inhibits the violation in the resealable package 10 before being opened. The reclosable pack 10 may further include an optional slide mechanism 36 (FIGURE 2) slidably mounted to the holder 14 for movement between a closed position and an open position. With reference to FIGURES 1 and 2, the first and second profiles 26, 32 are coupled together while the sliding mechanism 36 is in the closed position and the movement of the sliding mechanism 36 from the closed position to the open position uncouples the profiles 26, 32 one from the other. The package 10 of FIGURE 2 also includes the end terminations 37. The end terminations may have various purposes such as (a) preventing or inhibiting the sliding device mechanism 36 from exceeding the ends of the fastener 14, (b) interacting with the device slide 36 to provide a tactile indication warning that it is closed; (c) assist in inhibiting or preventing leakage of package 10; and (d) holding together the first profile and the second profile 26, 32 and providing additional force to resist the stresses applied to the profiles 26, 32 during normal use of the package 10. Additional details concerning the construction and operation of the slide mechanism 36 and end terminations 37 can be obtained from US Patent No. 5,067,208 issued to Herrington, Jr. and collaborators, which is incorporated in this document as a reference in its entirety. It is contemplated that other end terminations may be used in place of the end terminations 37 described above. For example, an extreme weld can be formed by hot bars pressed against the end of the fastener, ultrasonic welding or other shapes known in the field. As illustrated in FIGURES 1 and 2, the reclosable pack 10 of the present invention is opened by a consumer upon grasping the sliding mechanism 36 and moving it in such a manner that the first and second profiles 26, 32 of the first and respective respective channels 24, 30 are separated from each other. Thereafter, the consumer tears the breakable element 12 (if present) along the preferential fragile area 38. Alternatively, the consumer may open the breakable element 12, if used, by cutting through it. The package can be sealed again using the fastener 14 and the sliding mechanism 36. Specifically, the consumer holds the sliding mechanism 36 and moves it from the open position to the closed position to engage the first and second complementary profiles 26, 32. An element One-use breakable 12 does not only provide a consumer with the assurance that a newly purchased package has not been opened before, but also provides a good initial seal that preserves the freshness of the package's perishable contents before its initial opening and can inhibit or preventing the active agent from being activated by an activation-stimulation condition, such as humidity. Since the reclosable closure arrangements of FIGURE 1 are located on the single-use breakable element (i.e., the reclosable closing arrangement is further from the interior space), the operation of the Closing order that can be reclosed is not hindered by the presence of the single-use breakable element. Connected to the first inner surface of the body panel 16b is the structure of the agent 50 containing at least one active agent as depicted schematically in FIGURE 1. The active agent may include a substance known to provide a desired function or effect on a package or the content of it. In some modalities, the active agent includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness, which functions to prolong the life or freshness of food products or other perishable products that are arranged in the package. In other embodiments, the active agent includes an odor control agent, which functions to mask, neutralize and / or reduce an undesirable odor or to produce an aromatic odor in the package. The structure of the agent 50 can be provided in a form and structure suitable for the desired effect of the agent and the structure of the package. For example, in some embodiments, the structure of the agent 50 may be in the form of a coating, patch, tape, bag, a combination thereof or any other form that may be incorporated or integrated into the structure of the package 10. The selection of a coating, patch or bag, or tape is often dependent on the type of active agent that is used. For example, an active agent in the form of a powder (for example, minerals containing chemicals) can be placed in an air-permeable bag, preferably a patch because it is often difficult to embed the powders in a patch. Alternatively, an active agent in powder form can be dusted onto a component of the package, such as a body panel. Non-limiting examples of powdered active agents that can be incorporated into the structure of the agent 50 include perlite, calcium carbonate, kaolin and the antimicrobial agent ASEPTROLm manufactured by Engelhard. If a tape or patch is used to support the structure of the agent 50, the tape or patch may include an adhesive, a patch-like component and / or a release system such as a slip additive which helps inhibit or prevent that the structure of the agent sticks to the adhesive. For example, the release system may be located on a surface of the tape or patch that is located distally of the surface that contacts the body panel to which the tape or patch is to be attached, so as to inhibit or prevent the Stickiness when the package is placed on a roll. Materials such as siloxane and glycerol monostearate may be among the components of this delivery system. According to another aspect of the present invention, the active agent can be extruded with the body panel 16. For example, the active agent can be mixed in the material of the body panel in the form of oil or powder or it can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in the material of the body panel 16. In a preferred embodiment, the active agent is icroencapsulated before being integrated into the structure of the package. The microencapsulation encloses the active agent within a polymeric material that can withstand heat during the processing and manufacture of the package, but which degrades, dissolves or otherwise opens forcibly and releases the active agent with the contact with factors predetermined environmental conditions such as humidity. The active agent can be encapsulated in microcapsules and the microcapsules can be intermixed with the molten material of the body panel and can be extruded into the body panel 16 during bulk production. The body panel 16 can be impregnated in another way with the active agent. It is also contemplated that the active agent may be sprayed, brushed, coated, rolled, stamped or otherwise applied to the body panel 16. In some embodiments, the active agent includes one or more agents for the prolongation of freshness . The agent for freshness extension may be, for example, a natural oil, an antimicrobial agent, a modified atmosphere and other substances which may prolong the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishable products. For example, some non-limiting examples of ingredients for the prolongation of freshness include isothiocyanate such as allyl isothiocyanate (AIT) from natural sources, d-limonene, eugenol, allicin, isothymol, thymol, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate, ascorbic acid, citric acid, cinnamic aldehyde, mustard, cinnamon, mint, spearmint, triclosan, Chinese chives (Allium tuberosum) ), cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), corni fructus (Cornus officinalis), allyl cyanide, 1-cyano-2, 3-epithiopropane, allyl thiocyanate, Lactobacillus reuteri, methyl isothiocyanate, cinnamon bark oil, forage oil lemon, thyme oil, methyl jasmonate, tea tree oil, ethyl alcohol, salicylaldehyde, carvacrol, cymene, essential oil extracts of various onions, extract of garlic essential oils, phenolic extracts of cranberry berries, blackberry marsh, raspberry, strawberry and raspberry, blueberry ellagitannins, marsh mulberry, raspberry, strawberry and raspberry, essential oils of nutmeg, mint, clove, oregano, cinnamon, sassafras, mugwort, thyme and rosemary, vanillin , vanillyl alcohol, vanillylic acid, diacetyl, natural honey, fluorine dioxide, carbon dioxide, modified atmospheres and combinations thereof. The modified atmosphere can include nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and combinations thereof. The TIA, which can be obtained naturally from plants or perishable products such as mustard and wasabi, is particularly advantageous as an agent for the prolongation of freshness due to its antimicrobial properties. Preferably, the TIA is produced from plants such as mustard, which contains glucosinolate and enzyme myrosinase. Myrosinase and glucosinolate react with each other to produce TIA and, because the reaction involves hydrolysis, moisture activates TIA production. It has been shown that TIA exhibits antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and, when released in a gaseous form tghout the packaging atmosphere, improves the atmosphere to inhibit bacterial growth and therefore prolongs the freshness of perishable products. Therefore, products for the production of AIT, including wasabi, radish and mustard in various forms, such as extract, powder, oil or ground seed, can be used as the agent for the prolongation of freshness in the present invention. In some embodiments, an agent for freshness extension containing TIA can also be used in combination with another functional agent. For example, in one of these modalities, the AIT is combined with an acid, which greatly improves the production of AIT from the mustard and, in this way, the antimicrobial effect of the mustard. Thus, if ground mustard seed is used as the agent for the prolongation of freshness, it can be combined, in a desired ratio, with anhydrous acid such as anhydrous citric acid for the increased production of AIT and, thus, the improved freshness extension function. The agent for the extension of freshness can also provide other breeding functions and, therefore, can be used for these other purposes. In some embodiments, the freshness enhancing agent may include a freshness component to prolong the freshness of the food and an odor component to mask, reduce and / or neutralize only a pungent odor of the freshness component, but not others. smells of the contents stored in a package. Preferably, the odor component does not mask the odors of the contents stored in the package, such as food odors or food decomposition odors, so that putrefaction or decomposition of the contents can be detected by smell. For example, an agent for freshness extension that includes a freshness component of AIT may also include a fragrance component, such as vanilla, cinnamon or citrus fruit oil., which can mask the pungent smell of AIT, but can not mask or otherwise affect the odor of stored contents. Preferably, the freshness enhancing agent does not impart its organoleptic properties to the stored contents and, thus, allows a user to easily detect putrefaction or decomposition of the stored contents by means of smell. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the structure of agent 50 includes one or more agents for odor control. Advantageously, the odor control agent can be incorporated into packages configured to collect garbage or waste to mask, neutralize and / or reduce undesirable odors. Alternatively, the odor control agent can be used to provide or create a package odor. In this way, an odor control agent can be incorporated into thermoplastic bags or wrappings and other containers, such as garbage or waste bags, diaper containers, laundry bags, storage bags and disposable medical bags or containers. Non-limiting examples of odor control agents include AIT, d-limonene, mustard, natural oils, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, ammonia, citronella, pine, flowers and substituted esters such as METAZENEMR. A preferred embodiment of an odor control agent includes AIT, which agent can be provided by the incorporation, for example, of mustard into the structure of the agent 50. The mustard, whether in the form of ground mustard seed, powder, oil or paste, can be provided alone or in combination with an acid (such as citric acid) to catalyze the production of AIT from mustard and to improve the antimicrobial and odor control properties of mustard. Due to its effectiveness in prolonging the freshness of perishable products as previously described in this document, the AIT can provide multiple functions when incorporated into a package of perishable products, for example, the AIT can perform functions both of prolongation of the freshness as of odor control. In some embodiments, the odor control agent may include an additional ingredient to provide a pleasant or desired scent or scent to a user. For example, a natural oil such as lemon fodder oil can be used to control odors emanating from a package, to mask the odor of the primary agent for odor control itself or to make the smell of odor control more pleasant for a user. It has been shown that a composition comprising ground mustard seed and anhydrous citric acid mixed with about 5% by weight of lemon forage oil is particularly effective in controlling unpleasant odors. If a structure of the agent 50 includes an aromatic or perfume ingredient to provide a desired essence to a package, an additional material may be included to improve the concentration of the essence within the package. For example, the structure of agent 50 may include perlite to increase the concentration of the essence. Perlite is desirable for use due to its ability to retain the essence, its stability and its surface area. Non-limiting examples of other materials for improving the essence include microspheres, talc, silicon, silicate such as aluminum silicate, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth or combinations thereof. Furthermore, according to the invention, the structure of the agent 50 can be provided with an activation system that is stimulated when the reclosable pack is opened or filled with contents. The activation system can be of a mechanical nature, such as a perforation or a release system that, once it is separated, initiates the release of the active agent. Another activation method can be based on the level of humidity or wetness that is present in the package (for example, which correlates with the activity with the water content). For example, a high amount of moisture can initiate a chemical reaction or other reaction that subsequently releases a volatile chemical such as carbon dioxide or chlorine dioxide. In this example, a larger amount of active agent is added when the humidity is higher in the pack that can be reclosed. Examples of reactions that are activated by a high moisture level are reactions of salts and acids, such as sodium bicarbonate and citric acid or sodium hypochlorite and citric acid. The release of AIT is also aided by moisture as previously explained. In these examples, a greater amount of active agent is released into the atmosphere of the package when it increases the humidity. During a method of operation of a package that can be re-closed with an agent for the prolongation of the moisture-activated freshness, for example, the perishable products are placed inside the package and the level of humidity or wetness in the Perishable products activates the agent for the prolongation of freshness. Additionally, if the structure of the agent is disposed in a location close to the mouth of the package similar to a bag or next to the edge of a package similar to a package, selective activation or release may be performed. For example, the level of moisture or wetting of perishable products can activate the agent as perishable products travel in close proximity to the agent (for example, through the mouth or pass the edge of the package during the initial placement of the products). perishable products in the interior), while perishable products remain inside and with the entry of air inside (for example, during an opening of the package). The arrangement of the agent structure in a location close to the mouth or edge of a package can also be advantageous when a maximum display of the contents in a transparent package is desired. An activation method by means of moisture can be further controlled by providing a barrier layer material. For example, it is preferable that the body panels provide a barrier layer or that they are formed of a barrier material to create a closed environment to prevent or inhibit the introduction of moisture and the release of the active agent when the package is closed. As used herein, the terms "barrier layer" and "barrier material" include layers or materials that inhibit or otherwise control the release of an active agent within the atmosphere of the package, preferably that layers or materials that block or completely prevent this release. An example of this material is polyethylene glycol (PEG) incorporated in low density polyethylene (LDPE). Other materials that provide a barrier for the transfer of water, water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile or non-volatile active agents include, but are not limited to, polymers, copolymers, combinations, extrusions, coextrusions, coatings, metallization or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear intermediate density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), oriented polypropylene (OPP), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), acrylonitrile-EPDM-styrene (AES), copolymers of ASA / AES, polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and its copolyamides, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene / ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA), polyesters Tireno (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), saran, filled polymers ceramics, nanocomposite polymers, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate (AC-MA), polyphenylene ether (PPE), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), thermoplastic elastomer, cellophane, nylon, polycarbonate (PC), modified polyolefins with barrier properties, cyclic olefin copolymers, polyacrylonitriles, acrylonitrile copolymers, polyacetals, modified polyesters, acrylic derivatives and inorganic barrier coatings. It is also contemplated that other barrier materials such as thin sheets of metal and metallized polymers such as metallized oriented polypropylene (OPP) can be used. The barrier layer is substantially impermeable to at least water vapor and active agents and, in some embodiments, also to oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide or combinations thereof. In this way, the barrier layer inhibits or prevents water vapor (and, in some embodiments, oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide) from entering the interior of the package, while inhibiting or preventing the active agent from escaping from the package. inside of the package. An example of a cyclic olefin copolymer that can be used in the formation of the barrier layer is TOPAS 8007 ^. It is believed that useful cyclic olefin copolymers are available from several companies. For example, Ticona, a company of Celanese AG in Summit N.J. has cyclic olefin copolymers available. Other companies believed to have available cyclic olefin copolymers include Nippon Zeon (Japan), Mitsui Chemical (Japan) and JSR (Japan), formerly known as Japan Synthetic Rubber. Ticona, a Celanese AG company, has commercially available cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) under the designation TOPAS1411. It is believed that these cyclic olefin copolymers are prepared with norbornene and ethylene raw materials and the use of a metallocene catalyst. It is believed that at least four grades of TOPAS resins are available (TOPAS 8007 ™, TOPAS 6013 ™, TOPAS 6015 ™ and TOPAS 6017 ™). The four grades of the available TOPAS ™ resins have the transition temperatures of the vitreous state, Tg, of 80, 140, 160 and 180 ° C, respectively. The corresponding levels of norbornene of the four grades of TOPAS ™ resins are 35, 48, 55 and 59 mol%. The structure of the agent 50 can be made of polymeric materials including thermoplastic materials. Alternatively, if formed as part of the package, a polymeric matrix layer may be provided to impregnate or support a microencapsulated active agent within a component of the package, for example a body panel. The matrix layer of the structure of the agent 50 can be made of polyolefin materials such as polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrenes and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of matrix layer materials include polymers, copolymers or blends of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear intermediate density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE) ), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and its copolyamide, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA) , polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyphenylene ether (PPE), thermoplastic elastomer and cellulose and filler plastics. These materials generally provide a good barrier to water vapor, but allow the permeation of oxygen and active agents. It may be desirable to have a patch, tape or sack comprising polyethylene because of its recyclability. Another example of a material that can be used to form a patch, tape or sac structures is ethyl methyl acrylate (EMA). A surface of the patch, tape or sack may be formed of a porous nonwoven material (eg, gauze) that allows the active agent such as the freshness-prolonging agent or odor control to be released. For odor control, one of the layers of the odor control structure may further include a fragrance (e.g., a liquid fragrance), a mineral to improve the essence and / or a polymeric resin (e.g., LLDPE) . As will be understood by those of ordinary experience in the field, the amount of agent to be used in combination with a package will depend on the environment in which the agent is used, for example, the agent's loss and release rates. The release rate refers to the speed at which the agent is released inside the package and the rate of loss refers to the speed at which the agent released from the interior of the package escapes. Preferably, the agents of the present invention are arranged in amounts such that the rate of release of the agent is greater than the rate of loss of the agent during a predetermined "shelf life" or duration of use, so that the presence of the agent inside a package is replenished faster than the speed at which it is lost, thus ensuring effective agent performance. The rate of loss of the agent depends on a variety of factors related to the design, construction and use of the package. It is contemplated that additional layers may be added to the coating, patch, sack or tape. For example, a barrier layer can be added to help maintain the freshness-prolonging agent in communication with the interior of the resealable package and, thus, to help prevent or inhibit the permeation of the barrier. agent for the prolongation of freshness through the body panel. For example, and with reference to the embodiment of the package of FIGURE 1, each of the opposed body panels 16, 18 forms a barrier layer that is substantially impermeable to at least water vapor and active agents and, in some modalities, also to oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide or combinations thereof. In this way, the opposing body panels 16, 18 can include, that is to say, they are at least partially formed from one or more of the above materials. The opposing body panels 16, 18 may include barrier layers located on the exterior and / or interior surfaces of the packages. For purposes of illustration, the described packages of the present invention will now be further described herein with respect to agents for freshness extension. Those of ordinary experience in the field will understand that the described packages can be modified appropriately to include other types of active agents. In such an embodiment, the barrier layer can be located on an interior surface of a structure for the prolongation of freshness as shown in FIG., for example, FIGURE 3a. In FIGURE 3a, one side of a package 210 is shown with a body panel 212 that includes a structure for freshness extension 214 and a second body panel (not shown in FIGURE 3a). The agent for prolonging the freshness of the structure for the prolongation of freshness 214 is in communication with the interior space, while a surface of the structure for the extension of freshness 214 is attached to a surface 212a of the body panel 212 by way of an adhesive, thermal seal or welding, for example an ultrasonic welding. It is contemplated that other joining methods may be used. For example, the structure for the prolongation of freshness can be attached to at least one surface of the body panels using mechanical methods such as fasteners or staples. In this way, the structure for the prolongation of freshness can be provided as a co-extrusion structure or as a laminated material. Alternatively, it can be coated on a film layer. An example shown in FIGURE 3b includes a reclosable pack 230 comprising a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIGURE 3b) and a structure for freshness extension 234. The structure 234 comprises a first layer 216 which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 218 which includes an agent for the extension of freshness. The first layer 216 may be a polymer barrier layer using one of the barrier materials mentioned previously. An example of a polymer that can be used in the second polymeric layer 218 is a polyolefin such as linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). An outer surface 216a of the first layer 216 of FIGURE 3b is attached to an interior surface 212a of the first body panel 212. The second polymeric layer 218 is directly adjacent to the first layer 216 so that the agent for the extension of the freshness is in communication with the interior space. Depending on the materials forming the first and second layers 216, 218, it may not be necessary to bond the layers with adhesive. Preferably, for example, the first and second layers can be co-extruded together if the materials are compatible to form the first and second layers. It is also contemplated that information on the structure for the prolongation of freshness 234 such as on the barrier layer can be printed. It is contemplated that printing may occur on different locations of the structure. For improved visibility and readability of printing, it may be desirable to print on the surface of the structure for the freshness extension that is closest to the body panel when the structure is located inside the reclosable package . For example, in FIGURE 3b, the printing would desirably be located between the first body panel 212 and the first layer 216. If an adhesive is used to join the first layer 216 of FIGURE 3b to the surface 212a, then the printing may be located between the adhesive and the first layer 216. It is contemplated that other joining methods such as thermal sealing or mechanical methods may be used. With reference to FIGURE 3c, a resealable package 250 comprises a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIGURE 3c) and a structure for the prolongation of freshness 254 in the form of a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the structure may be in the form of a sack or a liner. The structure for the prolongation of freshness 254 comprises a first layer 216 which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 218 which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness and a third polymeric layer 220 which is a diffusion layer. The first layer 216, as described above, can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 218 that includes the agent for the prolongation of freshness is located between the first and third layers 216, 220. An example of a polymer that can be used in the second polymeric layer 218 is a polyolefin, such as a polyethylene linear low density (LLDPE). The agent for the prolongation of freshness is in communication with the interior space of the reclosable packet via the third polymeric layer 220 which is permeable. In this way, the third polymeric layer 220 controls the permeability and must be permeable to the extent that the agent for prolonging the freshness can enter the interior of the package that can be closed again through it. It is contemplated that the third polymeric layer 220 may comprise a cyclic olefin copolymer. The third polymeric layer may comprise from about 10 to about 80% by weight or, more specifically, from about 20 to about 40% by weight of cyclic olefin copolymer to assist in reducing the ripple of the polymer structure. While not wishing to be limited by one theory, ripple tends to be caused when the materials forming the layers of polymer structure are not compatible with each other due, for example, to their different shrinkage ratios. The barrier layer may comprise a more crystalline material which does not shrink much, if any, over time in comparison with the diffusion layer which may comprise a material, such as polyethylene, which tends to shrink over time. The disadvantage of this ripple of the structure is that the edges tend to undulate in a direction transverse to themselves and therefore cause processing problems. The crimping of the polymer structure can be reduced or inhibited by the use of a cyclic olefin copolymer in the third polymeric layer, whereby the first layer and the third polymeric layer become more compatible. The addition of a cyclic olefin copolymer to the third polymeric layer 220 also decreases the rate of permeation of the agent for freshness extension within the resealable package 250. As previously described, it is contemplated that the freshness extension structure 254 of FIGURE 3c may have a release agent (e.g., a slip additive) that helps prevent or inhibit the polymer structure from sticking to itself. It is also contemplated that information may be printed on the structure 254. The first layer 216 may be attached to the surface of the body panel (s) via an adhesive, heat seal or other methods. With reference to FIGURE 3d, a resealable package 270 comprises a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIGURE 3d) and a structure for the prolongation of freshness 274 in the form of a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the structure 274 may be a sack. The structure for the prolongation of freshness 274 comprises a first layer 216 which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 219 which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The agent for the prolongation of freshness must be able to communicate with the interior space of the package or bag that can be closed again. The first layer 216 can be joined to the body panel 212 via an adhesive, heat seal, welding or other methods.

The reclosable package may include more than one structure for the prolongation of freshness that includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness in it. For example, the reclosable package may include two or three structures for the prolongation of freshness each containing an agent for the prolongation of freshness. A structure for the prolongation of freshness (for example a patch, tape, sack or coating containing an agent for the prolongation of freshness) may vary in its size and is dependent on factors such as the desired amount of prolongation of freshness , the particular agent for the prolongation of the freshness that is used, the number of structures for the prolongation of the freshness that are used in the package that can be closed again and the size of the package that can be closed again. The dimensions of the structure for the prolongation of freshness are generally approximately 1.27 centimeters (1/2 inch) or 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) to approximately 30.48 centimeters (12 inches). Non-limiting examples of the dimensions of the structure for the prolongation of freshness include 1.27 centimeters (1/2 inch) x 2.54 centimeters (1 inch), 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) x 2.54 centimeters (1 inch), 1.27 centimeters ( 1/2 inch) x 5.08 centimeters (2 inches), 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) x 15.24 centimeters (6 inches), 5.08 x 10.16 centimeters (2 4 inches) and 10.16 x 30.48 centimeters (4 x 12 inches). The thickness of the structures for the prolongation of freshness may vary in the present invention but is generally less than about 508 microns (20 mils), preferably about 304.8 to 406.4 microns (12 to 16 mils) and more preferably from about 355.6 to 381 microns (14 to 15 thousandths of an inch). According to another embodiment, the structure for prolonging the freshness of the reclosable package is supplied in a non-woven matrix. The non-woven matrix can be impregnated after the non-woven matrix has been formed. The impregnation of the non-woven matrix can be carried out by means of the coating of an agent for the prolongation of freshness. Alternatively, the non-woven matrix can be formed initially with the agent for the prolongation of freshness therein. According to a further embodiment, the agent for prolonging the freshness of the reclosable pack can be microencapsulated in a structure for the prolongation of freshness. The structure for the prolongation of freshness which is a patch, tape, bag or liner in one embodiment is located inside a resealable package or bag, such as the resealable package 10. For example, in FIGURE 3a, a partial cross-sectional view of one side of the reclosable pack 210 is shown with the body panel 212 and the structure for freshness extension 214. The structure 214 is attached to a surface inside 212a of the body panel 212 in which the inner surface 212a forms an inner portion of the reclosable pack 210. Alternatively, the structure for freshness extension which is a coating, patch, sack or tape may be located on an exterior surface of an article or within layers of an article in such a way that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is able to permeate inside or communicate with the interior of the package that can be closed again. For example, the structure for the prolongation of freshness which is a coating, patch, bag or tape may be located on an outer surface of a reclosable packet in which a portion of the body panel is removed in such a manner. that the agent for prolonging the freshness of the structure for the prolongation of freshness can permeate the interior of the package that can be closed again. For example, with reference to FIGURE 4, a partial cross-sectional view of a side of a resealable package 310 is shown with a structure for freshness extension 314 attached to an exterior surface 316a of a body panel 316. The body panel 316 has at least one opening 318 which allows the freshening agent of the freshness extension structure 314 to permeate the interior of the resealable package 310. The opening (s) (s) 318 may be a large opening or a plurality of smaller openings extending from and through the body panel 316 of the reclosable pack 310. The opening (s) 318 is can (n) form by means of processes known in the field that include a drilling process. In another example, FIGURE 5 represents a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a resealable pack or bag 410. The resealable pack or bag 410 comprises an outer layer 412, a structure for extension of freshness 414 and an inner layer 416 with opening (s) 418. The structure for freshness extension 414 is located between and is attached to outer layer 412 and inner layer 416. The opening (s) 418 allows (n) that the agent for the freshness extension of the structure 414 be in communication with the interior of the resealable package or bag 410. It is contemplated that a layer of a reclosable package can be permeable to the agent for prolonging the freshness of the structure for the prolongation of freshness in such a way that the agent for the extension of freshness is in communication with the interior of the pack that can be reclosed. FIGURE 6 represents an example of this type where a partial cross-sectional view of a resealable package 510 is shown. The resealable package 510 comprises a structure for freshness extension 514 and a layer of diffusion 516. The diffusion layer 516 allows the agent for prolonging the freshness of the structure for the prolongation of freshness 514 to enter the interior of the reclosable package. The diffusion layer 516 can be made of a suitable material that allows the freshness-prolonging agent to reach the interior of the reclosable package in a relatively fast manner. In this way, the materials that provide permeation of water, steam, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile active agents or non-volatile active agents can be used for the diffusion layer. Examples of a diffusion layer 516 include polymers, copolymers, blends, extrusions, coextrusions, coatings or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and its copolyamides, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene / ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), filled polymers, hydrophilic nanocomposite polymers, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA.), Thermoplastic elastomers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylpentene (PMP), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL) and cellulose acetate (CA), all of which have a general affinity for moisture. As will be understood by those of ordinary experience in the field, the same type of polymeric material can be used in the formation of either the matrix, barrier or diffusion layer, depending on the ratio in percentage of the material in the composition of the layer, the amount of material in the composition of the layer (e.g., the thickness of the composition of the layer) and / or the manufacturing method. In this way, the use of a particular polymeric material as a component for the matrix, barrier or diffusion layer depends on its quantity and form of use. FIGURE 7 depicts another embodiment with a partial transverse view of a reclosable side of the package 530 that includes an additional layer (outer layer 512) as compared to the resealable package 510 of FIGURE 6. It is contemplated that additional layers may be added in the formation of the reclosable packages shown in FIGS. 3-7. For example, an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer can be used (EVOH) or a layer of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) in the formation of the body panels of the reclosable pack or in the formation of a barrier layer of the package. This barrier layer helps maintain the ingredient for freshness extension in communication with the interior of the reclosable package. Other layers, such as a layer to increase the prolongation of freshness, are also contemplated. A layer to increase the prolongation of freshness can operate to increase the supply of the agent for the prolongation of freshness with the increase of humidity. This layer to increase the prolongation of freshness is particularly advantageous, since increased moisture often results in a corresponding increase in bacterial growth leading to increased decomposition of perishable products. An example of a layer to increase the prolongation of freshness is polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). The structure for the prolongation of freshness 214 may include a removable cover. An example of this embodiment is shown in FIGURE 8 where a partial cross-sectional view of one side of the reclosable pack 610 comprises a body panel 612, a structure for freshness extension 614 and a release cover 622. The removable cover 622 covers at least a portion of the freshness extension structure 614 and may cover the entire structure for freshness extension 614 which is exposed inside the reclosable pack 610. The cover detachable 622 prevents or inhibits the freshness-prolonging agent from escaping the freshness extension structure 614 in its initial position shown in FIGURE 8. The release cover can be attached to the body panel 612 and / or the structure for the prolongation of freshness 614. The removable cover 622 is removed by a user from the structure for the prolongation of freshness 614 for increase or initiate the release of the agent for the freshness extension of the structure for the prolongation of freshness 614. Typically, the removal of the removable cover 622 by the user occurs when a perishable product has to be placed inside a package. An example of the peel-off cover 622 is a barrier layer such as EVOH or PVDC. It is contemplated that a peel-away cover can be used with any of the structures for freshness extension that is in the form of a patch, tape or sack. According to one embodiment, a resealable package is adapted to store articles and comprises a first thermoplastic body panel, a second thermoplastic body panel and at least one polymer structure for freshness extension which is adapted for prolong the freshness of items by increasing the time that items can be stored in the package without decomposition. The first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom that connects the sides to form an open mouth. The first and second body panels that are joined form an interior space for storing articles. The polymer structure for freshness extension is attached to a surface of one or more of the first body panel and the second body panel and is in communication with the interior space. The structure for the prolongation of the freshness further includes a removable cover in which the removable cover is adapted to initially cover at least a portion of the polymer structure for the prolongation of freshness. According to another embodiment, a reclosable package which includes two structures for freshness extension can be used. For example, with reference to FIGURE 9a, a reclosable package 710 comprises a first thermoplastic body panel 712, a second thermoplastic body panel (not shown in FIGURE 9a), a first structure for the extension of the freshness 714a and a second structure for the prolongation of freshness 714b. As described above, the first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom that connects the sides to form an open mouth. The first body panel and the second body panel that are joined together form an interior space for storing articles. The first structure for the extension of freshness 714a comprises two layers and is a patch or a tape. It is contemplated that the first and second structures for the prolongation of freshness may form a sack. The first structure for the prolongation of freshness 714a comprises a first layer 716a which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 719a which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The first layer 716a can be a polymer layer. The second polymeric layer 719a is adjacent directly to the first layer 716a. The first layer 716a is shown in FIGURE 9a being attached to the first body panel 712 via an adhesive, heat seal or other method. Similarly, the second structure for the extension of freshness 714b comprises two layers and is a patch or a tape. The second structure for the prolongation of the freshness 714b comprises a third layer 716b which is a barrier layer and a fourth polymeric layer 719b which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The fourth polymeric layer 719b is directly adjacent to the third layer 716b. The third layer 716b can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 719a is releasably thermally sealed at selected locations to the fourth polymeric layer 719b such that the respective agent for freshness extension permeates into the interior of the reclosable package 710 via the area interior 717. The interior area 717 can be formed by having the first and second structures for the extension of freshness 714a, b corrugated with respect to each other. As shown in FIGURE 9a, the inner area 717 is formed between the second and fourth polymeric layers 719a, b. A slight undulation of the structures for the prolongation of freshness makes it possible for the agent for the extension of freshness to be in communication with the interior of the pack that can be closed again. It is desirable to have some degree of corrugation in the embodiment shown in FIGURE 9a to help make it possible for the freshness enhancing agent to be in communication with the interior of the reclosable pack or bag. As described above, the undulation of the structures for the prolongation of the freshness can be formed from the use of materials to form the structures for the prolongation of the freshness that are less compatible (that is to say, the speeds of shrinkage of the materials differ). It is contemplated that additional layers may be used in the formation of the two structures for the prolongation of freshness. For example, in FIGURE 9b, a reclosable pack 730 comprises a first thermoplastic body panel 712, a second thermoplastic body panel (not shown in FIGURE 9b), a first structure for the extension of freshness 734a and a second structure for the prolongation of freshness 734b. The first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom that connects the sides to form an open mouth. The first and second body panels that are joined form an interior space for storing articles. The first structure for the prolongation of freshness 734a comprises three layers and is a patch or a tape. It is contemplated that the first and second structures for the prolongation of freshness may form a sack or a coating. The first structure for the prolongation of freshness 734a comprises a first layer 716a which is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 718a comprising an agent for the prolongation of freshness and a third polymeric layer 720a which is a diffusion layer. The first layer 716a can be a polymer layer. The second polymeric layer 718a is located between the first and third layers 716a, 720a. The first layer 716a is shown in FIGURE 9b being attached to the first body panel 712 via an adhesive or heat seal in such a way that the agent for the extension of freshness is in communication with the interior space. It is contemplated that other joining methods such as mechanical devices such as fasteners or staples may be used. Similarly, the second structure for the prolongation of freshness 734b comprises three layers and is a patch or a tape. The second thermoplastic structure for the prolongation of freshness 734b comprises a fourth layer 716b which is a barrier layer, a fifth polymeric layer 718b comprising an agent for the prolongation of freshness and a sixth polymeric layer 720b which is a diffusion layer . The fourth layer 716b can be a polymeric layer. The fifth polymeric layer 718b is located between the fourth polymeric layer and the sixth polymeric layer 716b, 720b. The third polymeric layer 720a is thermally sealed at selected locations to the sixth polymeric layer 720b such that the respective agent for the freshness extension of the second polymeric layer 718a and the fifth polymeric layer 718b is adapted to enter the interior space of the polymeric layer 718a. reclosable packet between the third polymeric layer 720a and the sixth polymeric layer 720b. As described above, an inner area 727 may be formed by having the first and second structures for the extension of freshness 734a, b corrugated with respect to each other. As shown in FIGURE 9b, the inner area 727 is formed between the third polymeric layer and the sixth polymeric layer 720a, b. According to another embodiment, a reclosable pack 810 is shown in FIGURE 10a comprising a first thermoplastic body panel 812a, a second thermoplastic body panel 812b, a first structure for freshness extension 814a and a second structure for the prolongation of freshness 814b. The first body panel and the second body panel 812a, 812b are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom connecting the sides to form an open mouth. The first body panel and the second body panel that are joined together form an interior space for storing articles. The first structure for the prolongation of freshness 814a comprises two layers and is a patch or a tape. It is contemplated that the first and second structures for the prolongation of freshness may be in the form of a sack. The first structure for the prolongation of freshness 814a comprises a first layer 816a which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 819a which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The first layer 816a can be a polymer layer. The second polymeric layer 819a is adjacent directly to the first layer 816a. The first layer 816a is shown in FIGURE 10a being attached to the first body panel 812a via an adhesive or a thermal seal. It is contemplated that other joining methods may be used. To adhere the first body panel 812a, the first layer 816a may include a coating that is not tacky at room temperature. This coating may be tacky, for example, at higher temperatures or with exposure to infrared or heat radiation. Similarly, the second structure for freshness extension 814b comprises two layers and is a patch or a tape. The second structure for the prolongation of freshness 814b comprises a third layer 816b which is a barrier layer and a fourth polymeric layer 819b which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. The third layer 816b can be a polymeric layer. The fourth polymeric layer 819b is directly adjacent to the third layer 819b. The third layer 816b is shown in FIGURE 10a being attached to the second body panel 812b via an adhesive or a thermal seal. It is contemplated that other joining methods may be used. To adhere the second body panel 812b, the third layer 816b may include a coating that is not tacky at room temperature.

This coating may become tacky, for example, at higher temperatures or with exposure to infrared or heat radiation. It is contemplated that the first structure for the prolongation of freshness and the second structure for the prolongation of freshness may be formed of different compositions. For example, the first structure may include a first agent for the prolongation of freshness, while the second structure may be a second agent for the prolongation of freshness. In the formation of this embodiment, the first and second structures for the extension of freshness can be formed, for example, by means of the extrusion of two different patches, tapes, sacks or by means of the application of two different coatings. Alternatively, the reclosable packet may be formed by a different number of two or more layer structures. For example, a barrier layer need not be provided if the body panels 812 are formed of a suitable material to define a barrier layer. In addition, as shown in FIGURE 10b, a reclosable pack 830 includes a first structure for freshness extension 834a comprising a first layer 816a comprising an agent for freshness extension and a second layer polymer 818a which is a diffusion layer. The reclosable pack 830 also includes a second structure for freshness extension 834b comprising a third layer 816b comprising an agent for freshness extension and a fourth polymeric layer 818b which is a diffusion layer. It is contemplated that the first and second structures for the prolongation of freshness can be made from different compositions, such as from different agents for the prolongation of freshness or diffusion layers. According to yet another embodiment, the reclosable package can be formed by three or more layers. For example, as shown in FIGURE 10c, a resealable package 850 includes a first structure for freshness extension 854a comprising a first layer 816a which is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 818a which it comprises an agent for the prolongation of freshness and a third polymeric layer 820a which is a diffusion layer. The resealable package 850 includes a second structure for freshness extension 854b comprising a fourth layer 816b which is a barrier layer, a fifth polymeric layer 818b comprising an agent for freshness extension and a sixth polymeric layer 820b which is a diffusion layer. The first and second structures for freshness extension 854a, b are joined to the first and second body panels 812a, 812b, respectively, via an adhesive or thermal seal. It is contemplated that the first and second structures may be made of different compositions, such as different barrier materials or agents for the prolongation of freshness. As previously described, the freshness enhancers of the present invention may contain an activation system that is stimulated by a user when opening a resealable package or by placing contents therein. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown and described with respect to FIGURE 8, the activation system of the agents for the freshness extension of the present invention is mechanical in nature. For example, in the embodiment of FIGURE 8, the activation system includes a perforation or a release system which, once separated, initiates the release of the agent for the prolongation of freshness. According to another aspect of this type of the invention, a resealable package 910 is shown in FIG. 1 to which it comprises a first thermoplastic body panel 912a., a second thermoplastic body panel 912b and a structure for freshness extension 914 disposed therebetween. The first and second body panels 912a, 912b are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom connecting the sides to form an open mouth. The first and second body panels that are joined form an interior space for storing articles. The structure for freshness extension 914 may be in the form of a patch or tape incorporated therein and comprises three layers. Particularly, the structure for freshness extension 914 shown in FIGURE Ia comprises a first layer 916a which is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 919 which is a frangible diffusion layer with an agent for the prolongation of freshness and a third layer 919b which is a barrier layer. As shown in FIGURE lia, the second layer 919 is a single-use breakable element extending between the first barrier layer 916a and the second barrier layer 916b. The single-use breakable element of the second layer 919 thus inhibits or prevents the freshness-prolonging agent from escaping into the package while in its initial position shown in FIG. The single use breakable element 921 may include one or more polymeric resins and polyolefins and may be used with any of the previously described freshness extension structures. The polyolefins used as the single-use breakable element include, but are not limited to, polyethylenes, polypropylenes and combinations thereof. Some non-limiting types of polyethylenes include low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE), high density polyethylenes.

(HDPE), intermediate density polyethylenes (MDPE) and combinations thereof. Other non-limiting examples include plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisobutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) or combinations thereof, including with polyethylenes and / or or polypropylenes. The single-use breakable element of the second layer 919 may include a preferential, breakable area of single fragile use or a preferred tear-off area similar to the preferred brittle areas or tear areas previously described herein or an adhesive or cohesive seal, breakable single use. Alternatively, the second layer 919 can be formed by selectively crosslinking the diffusion material to define the single-use breakable element. Generally, the link between the second layer 919 and the adjacent layers must be stronger than the frangible portion of the single-use breakable element that links the portions 919a and 919b as described further below. As shown in FIGURE 11b, the rupture of the single-use breakable element divides the second layer 919 into a first portion 919a and a second portion 919b, each having an exposed surface and thereby starting or increasing the release of the agent. for the prolongation of freshness to it. Typically, the rupture of the breakable element of single use by a user occurs when the package is initially opened to place contents therein. In another embodiment of this type having a mechanical release mechanism, a reclosable pack 1010 is shown in FIGURE 12a comprising a first thermoplastic body panel 1012a, a second thermoplastic body panel 1012b, a structure for the freshness extension 1014 and a removable or removable cover 1021. The first and second body panels 1012a, 1012b are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom connecting the sides to form an open mouth. The first and second body panels that are joined form an interior space for storing articles. The structure for the extension of freshness 1014 is in the form of a patch or tape and comprises two layers, for example, a first layer 1016 which is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 1019 which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness. As shown in FIGURE 12a, the removable cover 1021 is similar to that of FIGURE 8, but is securely attached to the panel 1012b. The removable cover 1021 covers at least a portion of the second layer 1019 and, as shown, preferably covers the second complete layer 1019 which is otherwise exposed inside the package 1010. As shown in FIGURE 12b, the removal of the cover 1021 exposes the freshness extension layer 1019 to the interior of the package 1010 and begins or increases thereby releasing the agent for freshness extension thereto at least while the package is opened. This embodiment of FIGURES 12a and 12b is particularly suitable for bags and wrappings for waste or the like. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the removable cover 1021 may cooperate with a resilient slider device of the reclosable pack 1010, so that the removable cover can be removed from the layer for freshness extension when the package can be removed. Close 1010 is opened via the sliding device. The structures for the freshness extension of the present invention, such as a patch, tape or sack, can be attached to a package such as a reclosable bag by means of a pressure sensitive self-adhesive. The pressure sensitive pressure sensitive adhesive can be any suitable adhesive that binds the structure for freshness extension to the reclosable package. Non-limiting examples of pressure-sensitive adhesives that may be used include acrylic or rubber-based adhesives. The structure for the extension of the freshness that is a belt or sack can be fed by a roll on one (s) layer (s) of the pack that can be closed again. The structure for the prolongation of freshness fed by a roll that is a belt or sack may also initially include a release wrap that helps to prevent or inhibit the freshness-prolonging agent from sticking to itself prior to delivery to the consumer. package that can be closed again. The releasable wrap, if used, is separated from the belt or bag for freshness extension fed by a roll before the tape or bag is attached to the resealable package or bag. Examples of release wraps include silicon-coated paper. However, release wraps may be undesirable due to the additional cost associated with them. It is contemplated that the structure for freshness extension may be fed by a roll without the use of a release wrap prior to joining the reclosable pack or bag. Alternatively, the structure for the extension of the freshness which is a patch or bag can be fed by storage during the joining to the pack that can be closed again. The patch is preferably fed by storage, while the bag can be fed by storage or by a roll. The tape is preferably fed by a roll during attachment to the reclosable pack. For example, the tape can be unwound, cut to a length and attached to the reclosable pack. According to another embodiment, the patch, tape or sack of the structure for the prolongation of freshness can be thermally sealed or welded (for example, it can be ultrasonically welded) directly to the pack or reclosable bag. The structure for the prolongation of the freshness can be fed by a roll or fed by deposit before being thermally sealed or welded to the pack that can be closed again. In a thermal sealing mode, a release wrap may not be used, probably because the structure for the extension of freshness without any adhesive should not stick on itself and the release wrap adds an unnecessary cost. The structure for the prolongation of freshness can be attached to the package that can be closed again in several locations. The structure for the prolongation of freshness can be attached to the body panels during the formation of thermal seals. For example, the structure for the prolongation of freshness can be located between a side seal formed between the first and second body panels. It is contemplated that other joining methods may be used. The reclosable packages, such as the resealable package 10, can be formed of any suitable material, such as by means of a thermoplastic material that is suitable for storing or collecting articles., even to store perishable products. Of course, this includes resealable packages of common sizes such as 0.473 liter (one pint) storage and freezer bags, 1/4 gallon storage and freezer bags, and storage bags. freeze of 3,785 liters (1 gallon). The reclosable packages are typically formed of polymeric materials such as polyolefin materials. Non-limiting examples of polyolefin materials include polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrene and combinations thereof. For example, some types of polyethylene materials include high density polyethylenes (HDPE), low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE) and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that materials such as plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisobutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) or combinations thereof, including polyethylenes and / or polypropylenes can be used in the formation of the reclosable packets of the present invention. The thicknesses of the reclosable packets may vary in the present invention, but are generally from about 12.7 microns (0.5 mil) to about 127 microns (5 mil) and, more specifically, about 25.4 microns (1 thousandth of an inch) to approximately 76.2 microns (3 thousandths of an inch). As previously described herein, the freshness enhancers of the present invention can be used in combination with a body panel of a package. Alternatively and / or in combination, the freshness enhancers of the present invention may be used in combination with flap portions of a reclosable pack fastener, as described further in the Patent Application. North American co-pending No. [Proxy Registry No. 0863012-38600-USPT], the contents of this application are expressly incorporated by reference in this document in its entirety. While the packages described with active agents have been shown and described with reference to the illustrated modalities, those of ordinary experience in the field will recognize and / or be able to discover many equivalents for those modalities. These equivalents are included by the scope of the present description and the appended claims. For example, those of ordinary skill in the field will understand that the present invention has applications in various types of packages and packages, including bags and wraps that can not be reclosed, rigid containers such as plastic containers, lunch boxes and rigid containers. for garbage and packaging and thin sheets of metal for the packaging of perishable products.

Similarly, those of ordinary skill in the field will understand that the present invention has applications for active agents other than agents for the prolongation of freshness, such as odor control agents and other agents that provide a desired function or effect. about a package or the contents arranged in it. Unless provided otherwise, when the articles "a" or "an" are used in this document to modify a noun, it may be understood that they include one or more than one of the modified noun.

Claims

1. A reclosable package, characterized in that it comprises: a pair of opposed body panels that are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom connecting the sides; a reclosable fastener that extends along a mouth formed in a location opposite the bottom; and an agent for prolonging the freshness associated with at least one of the body panels for communication with the interior of the reclosable package and for inhibiting the decomposition of a perishable product disposed therein.

2. The reclosable packet according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the extension of freshness is included in at least one of a coating, patch, bag and a tape applied to at least one of the body panels.

3. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the extension of freshness is distributed in at least one of the body panels.

4. The reclosable package according to claim 3, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is distributed in at least one of the body panels in the form of microcapsules.

5. The reclosable packet according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a structure for selectively initiating the release of the agent for the prolongation of freshness.

6. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is released by moisture.

7. The reclosable packet according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness includes an isothiocyanate compound.

8. The reclosable package according to claim 7, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness also includes an acid.

9. The reclosable package according to claim 7, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness also includes a fragrance.

10. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is included in a permeable layer for the prolongation of freshness that has a release agent.

11. The resealable package according to claim 1, wherein the freshness-prolonging agent is included in a layer for freshness extension, the reclosable package is characterized in that further comprises: a removable cover that is removably attached to at least a portion of the layer for the extension of freshness.

12. The reclosable package according to claim 11, characterized in that the layer for prolonging the freshness is secured to one of the body panels and the removable cover is secured to the other of the body panels.

13. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a barrier layer associated with at least one of the body panels.

The reclosable package according to claim 13, characterized in that the barrier layer is attached to at least one of the body panels via at least one of an adhesive, co-extrusion, thermal seal and welding.

15. The resealable package according to claim 1, wherein the freshness-prolonging agent is included in a layer for freshness extension, the reclosable pack is characterized in that it further comprises : a diffusion layer arranged in a location adjacent to the layer for the prolongation of freshness.

16. The reclosable package according to claim 15, characterized in that the diffusion layer is located closer to the interior than the layer for the extension of freshness.

17. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is included in a layer for the prolongation of freshness and at least one of the body panels defines a perforation. extending therethrough, the freshness extension layer is disposed on the outside of at least one of the body panels adjacent to the perforation.

18. The reclosable package according to claim 1, characterized in that the agent for the prolongation of freshness is included in a layer for the prolongation of the freshness attached to one of the body panels, the layer for the extension of the freshness includes a breakable element of single use which extends between and which is secured to the opposite body panels.

19. A reclosable package, characterized in that it comprises: a first opposed body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second opposed body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, the first and second body panels that are joined along a pair of opposite sides and a bottom that connects the sides to form an open mouth at one end, the first and second body panels that are joined form an interior space, a seal re-closable polymer which extends along one end of the inner surface of the first and second opposed body panels, at least one polymeric structure for freshness extension that includes a first polymeric layer that is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer which is a diffusion layer and which includes an agent for the prolongation of freshness, the second polymeric layer which is adjacent To the first polymeric layer, the first polymeric layer is attached to the package in such a way that the agent for prolonging the freshness of the second layer is in communication with the interior space.

20. A structure for the prolongation of freshness, characterized in that it comprises: a first polymeric layer which is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer which is a diffusion layer and which includes an ingredient for the prolongation of freshness, the second polymeric layer which is adjacent to the first polymeric layer, and a removable cover that is removably attached to at least a portion of the second polymeric layer.