Modified Atmosphere Packaging

During harvest, handling, storage, transportation, process, and distribution of fruits and vegetable products, more than 40% are disposed of. One of the many reasons for the losses is the inappropriate packagings, such as sacks and bamboo baskets which affects the quality of produces.

Causes of food losses can include:

• The activity of food enzymes
• Infestation by insects, parasites, and rodents
• Inappropriate temperature during processing and storage
• Loss of moisture
• Microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and moulds
• Physical stress or abuse
• Reaction with oxygen

These activities result in the fresh product deteriorate, causing a change in colour, texture, quality, and food safety. Hence, to prevent such losses, use the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) as the go-to packaging solution to ensure the freshness of fruits and vegetables. Using the MAP provides a controlled level of gas transmission in and out of the bag, extending the life of fresh fruits and vegetables. This is done so by replacing the air within the packaging with predetermined atmospheric gases (oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen) in proportion to that of air. The selection and ratio of these gases are dependent on the material that is being packed. It also provides a balanced and safe shelf-life extension with optimal organoleptic properties of the product. Available in both microperforated and biodegradable materials, the MAP bag is ideal for applications for storage, retail, and export.

*Temperature control is critical as it will influence the gas permeability properties of the film.