What is it?
Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is a system of packaging that changes or modifies the atmosphere of gas inside a package (from air) in order to extend the shelf life of food. The foods in this type of packaging are not surrounded by air, but are surrounded by a mixture of gases - particularly oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide - formulated to prevent the food from deteriorating.
When the air and moisture inside the package is changed, the contained food has a longer shelf life; microbial activity is reduced. The respiration rate of fruits and vegetables is reduced, thus reducing wastage, while maximising the quality of the food products. The sensory and chemical properties of the foods are maintained using the MAP system.
When the air and moisture inside the package is changed, the contained food has a longer shelf life; microbial activity is reduced. The respiration rate of fruits and vegetables is reduced, thus reducing wastage, while maximising the quality of the food products. The sensory and chemical properties of the foods are maintained using the MAP system.
Examples of food items that use MAP packaging to extend their shelf lives
Many chip packets use MAP packaging