Table of Contents
What is Modified Atmosphere Packaging?
Modified Atmosphere Packaging is a method of packaging perishable food items such as meats, fish, cheeses, and other fresh products with the goal of increasing their shelf life and maintaining freshness.
How Does Modified Atmosphere Packaging Work?
The process of modified atmosphere packaging involves manipulating the atmosphere inside the packaging by reducing the amount of oxygen and replacing it with other gases, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon. This is done to reduce or delay unwanted reactions, such as oxidation and the growth of aerobic spoilage and unwanted microorganisms.
The gases used in modified atmosphere packaging can be applied individually or mixed according to specific ratios. Carbon dioxide, for example, is most effective in inhibiting microorganisms and reducing the pH value of the food by dissolving into the food’s liquid and fat phase. Nitrogen gas is primarily used to replace oxygen in packaging, preventing oxidation. It also helps to maintain internal volume by preventing package collapse due to its low solubility in water.
Techniques for Implementing Modified Atmosphere Packaging
There are several techniques that can be used to implement modified atmosphere packaging. These include:
- Gas flushing: This technique involves replacing the air inside the packaging with the desired gases by flushing it out with a high-pressure stream of the gases.
- Compensated vacuuming: This technique involves removing the air inside the packaging and replacing it with the desired gases through vacuum packaging.
- “Breathable” shrink wraps or packaging films: These materials allow the exchange of gases through the film, maintaining the desired atmosphere inside the package.
Pros of Modified Atmosphere Packaging
- Longer shelf life: By reducing the amount of oxygen and replacing it with other gases, the shelf life of perishable food items can be significantly extended.
- Enhanced visual appeal: MAP can help maintain the color, texture, and overall appearance of the food, making it more visually appealing to consumers.
- No chemical preservatives: MAP does not require the use of chemical preservatives, making it a more natural and healthier option for food preservation.
- Long-lasting flavor preservation: The reduced oxygen and controlled atmosphere inside the package can help preserve the flavor of the food for a longer period.
- Sustained nutritional content: MAP can help maintain the nutritional content of the food, preserving its health benefits for a longer period.
Benefits of Modified Atmosphere Packaging for Retailers and Suppliers
- Extended shelf life: By extending the shelf life of perishable food items, retailers and suppliers can reduce rotation of packages and decrease waste, leading to cost savings.
- Increased brand awareness: Consistently providing fresh and high-quality products can help increase brand awareness and customer loyalty.
- Enhanced supply chain management: MAP can help processors of natural and non-processed foods maintain a competitive edge in their supply chain by providing fresh products.
Conclusion
Modified Atmosphere Packaging is a method of packaging perishable food items to increase their shelf life and maintain freshness. The process involves manipulating the atmosphere inside the packaging by reducing the amount of oxygen and replacing it with other gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon. There are several techniques that can be used to implement modified atmosphere packaging, including gas flushing, compensated vacuuming, and “breathable” shrink wraps or packaging films. MAP offers several benefits, including longer shelf life and enhanced visual appeal, no chemical preservatives, and sustained nutritional content. It also benefits retailers and suppliers by extending the shelf life of products and reducing rotation of packages, leading to less waste and cost savings.