PET can also be used with different technologies to offer greater protection against oxygen and carbon dioxide migration and the impact of light. These barrier-enhancing technologies include oxygen scavenger additives, multi-layers and carbon coatings. Together they ensure that PET prolongs the shelf life and quality of the products it protects and keeps them safe for consumption.

2. PET is safe and non-toxic

PET is approved for food use by both the US Food and Drug Administration and its European counterpart, the European Food Safety Authority. Since the arrival of blow moulding techniques in the 1970s, PET has been used to create billions of bottles that have been used by consumers around the world. Numerous tests have created a broad consensus that PET is non-toxic and safe for the packaging and storage of food and beverage products.

Its excellent barrier properties mean it protects food and beverage products from contamination, water and dirt without leeching any toxic material. Furthermore, it is biologically inert if ingested, safe during handling and not a hazard if inhaled.

Global confidence in the hygienic and chemical safety of PET stems from the fact that the PET polymer is very stable and inert. Like glass, it is strong, resistant to attack by micro-organisms, does not react with foods, and will not biologically degrade. But unlike glass, PET is extremely lightweight, simple to transport and won't break. That's why it's preferred for packaging many foods and beverages, especially water and carbonated soft drinks.

Manufacturers of more sensitive products are also becoming aware of the benefits of PET and it is becoming a popular packaging choice for beverages such as liquid dairy products, juices, nectars, isotonics and teas. It is also making inroads into the beer market, which has traditionally favoured glass bottles.

In spite of the fact that PET has been subject to false scare campaigns, the facts remain that it is one of the safest packaging materials available. It does not use Bisphenol A in its manufacture nor contain endocrine disruptors, orthos phthalates (plasticizers), dioxins, nor any heavy metals (Mercury, Lead, Cadmium or Hexavalent Chromium). This means it protects liquids while protecting consumers too.