PE and PVC films used in fresh food packaging as well as green houses, often turn opaque and lose clarity when moisture gets trapped inside the films. Special additive systems are required to prevent condensation of water droplets. Compared to the surface treatment, the dosing of additive in the material is more effective and more long lasting. They certainly enhance the attractiveness of packaging systems and also increase the shelf life of the package.

Antifogging additives are typically surface active agents that have both hydrophilic as well as lipophilic parts. Typically Sorbian esters, polyoxyeytthylene esters, glycerol esters have so far been effectively used as antifogging agents. Polyglycerol esters is a new family of antifogging agents that have been introduced by Solvay S.A. These are biodegradable and very efficient because of low content of residual glycerol. They are in liquid form and are colourless and maintain the clarity and colour of the basic polymer. One of the major advantages of these new products is their controlled migration, which provides longer life to the film, making them more effective for a longer time. Some of the typical products are based on lauric acid or oleic acid.

These agents can also provide antistatic properties in addition to their antifogging characteristics.