A polymer composition is disclosed for containers for beverages, films and sheets for food. The composition comprises (a) polyester, (b) an acetaldehyde scavenger, (c) an acid absorber, and (d) an antioxidant. The acetaldehyde scavenger is characterized as small molecules, such as anthranilamide, that include at least two hydrogen-substituted heteroatoms bonded to carbons of the organic additive compound such that the organic additive compound is reactive with acetaldehyde in the polyester to form water and a resulting organic compound comprising an unbridged 5- or 6-member ring including the at least two heteroatoms. The acid absorber is a hydrotalcite-like composition. The polymer compound can be concentrated in a masterbatch or fully let-down. Optional ingredients include colorants, and optical brighteners. Discoloration of the polyester is reduced during the performance of acetaldehyde scavenging.