Carapelli Adopts Blue Glass Packaging to Counteract Olive Oil Photo-Oxidation

Carapelli has launched a new packaging solution, Carapelli Blu, utilizing a distinct blue glass container for its extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) line. This strategic change directly addresses photo-oxidation, a process widely recognized as the primary factor in the degradation of EVOO quality over time. The selection of blue glass is based on scientific validation demonstrating its superior ability to filter light compared to other glass alternatives.

The scientific basis for this innovation stems from a collaborative study conducted with the University of Perugia. This investigation quantified the protective effect of various glass colors, concluding that blue glass significantly retards the deterioration of the oil's inherent characteristics when compared with oils stored in other tested hues. Research confirms that light exposure, alongside heat and oxygen, constitutes the main threats to quality EVOO, leading to a reduction in antioxidants such as tocopherols and chlorophylls.

Related studies underscore the impact of light exposure, indicating that oils stored in light exhibit lower levels of chlorophyll and antioxidants, potentially causing the oil to fail to meet 'extra virgin' standards after extended exposure. Specifically, research has shown that light exposure can shorten shelf life, with some samples failing to meet extra virgin criteria in as little as two months. The breakdown of chlorophyll, which contributes the oil's green color, alters both taste and aroma, while photo-oxidation can increase detrimental free radical levels.

Beyond quality preservation, the Carapelli Blu bottle incorporates sustainability features. Manufactured by Verallia, a global glass packaging producer, the bottle contains a significant 65.7% recycled material content. Verallia’s commitment to eco-design involves minimizing environmental impact, noting that using recycled glass, or cullet, conserves raw materials and reduces energy consumption during the high-temperature melting process, which can reach 1,550 °C.

Verallia has established environmental objectives, including increasing the use of external cullet in its worldwide production to 59% by 2025 and reducing its Scopes 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 46% from 2019 levels by the same year. The company's focus on circular economy principles, including operating cullet treatment centers, supports the sustainable sourcing for packaging like the Carapelli Blu bottle. This innovation is designed to ensure the Italian EVOO retains its peak freshness and sensory profile from bottling through consumption, marking a significant step in mitigating light-induced quality loss within a widely distributed format.