This specification discloses a composition of a melt blend comprising a continuos polyester phase, a cobalt of manganese compound and a first scavenging compound wherein the first scavenging compound comprises at least one allylic group and at least one polar moiety and at least some of the first scavenging compound or the oligomer or the polymer comprising the first scavenging compound is not present in the continuous polyester phase. The partial insolubility is essential for oxygen scavenging and the solubility is essential for reducing haze. The composition is useful in preforms, container walls, and films for packaging.