Zaragoza, Spain  - Spanish scientists have invented packaging that keeps bread and other baked goods from going mouldy for up to 10 days, authors of the study said Friday.

The wax paper packaging contains cinnamon oil, which has high antimicrobial activity.

Packaging containing 6 per cent of cinnamon oil inhibited 96 per cent of mould growth, while plain wax paper did not prevent it, according to the study carried out at Zaragoza University.

Scientists have earlier made less efficient attempts to fight mold with different methods, including ultraviolet light, sterile packaging and chemical preservatives, the authors of the study said.

The so-called active packaging, which appears safe and environmentally friendly, will be described in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. (dpa)