Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a widely - used modern packaging for extending the shelf life of minimally processed fresh produce. It involves packaging produce in polymer films with a modified atmosphere, like lower oxygen and higher carbon dioxide levels (Kader & Saltveit, 2003; Yam & Lee, 1995).
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a widely - used modern packaging for extending the shelf life of minimally processed fresh produce. It involves packaging produce in polymer films with a modified atmosphere, like lower oxygen and higher carbon dioxide levels (Kader & Saltveit, 2003; Yam & Lee, 1995).
Gas Equilibrium Factors
The gas mixture in MAP can differ from the outside atmosphere, as long as the internal and external pressures are balanced. Key parameters include:
Product - related: Respiration rate and mass. High - respiration produce affects gas composition faster.
Film - related: Thickness, surface area, and gas transmission rate. Thicker films have lower permeability, and larger areas may increase gas exchange.
Initial conditions: Initial free volume and atmospheric composition in the package set the starting point for gas equilibrium.
Environment: Temperature and relative humidity. Higher temperatures speed up product respiration and gas permeation, and humidity affects film performance and produce moisture (Yam & Lee, 1995; Kader & Saltveit, 2003; Mannapperuma & Singh, 1994).
Film - related Technologies
Emerging technologies like metallocene polymerization, blending, lamination, and coextrusion optimize film permeability and physical properties (e.g., optical and seal - bonding) (Brandenburg & Zagory, 2009; Acosta et al., 2011), helping to control the package gas environment and improve packaging quality.
