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Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

Extend the shelf life of your fresh products up to 5 times longer and extend your distribution chain, through suitable packaging.

 

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), is a food packaging and preservation method. It involves modifying the gaseous atmosphere and packaging your foods in specific blends of food grade Nitrogen, Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide that reduces spoilage. It is the ideal solution for the preservation of fresh pre-packaged foods:

  • Longer shelf life
  • Production and distribution optimization
  • Fewer product returns

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How does MAP modified or controlled atmosphere packaging work?

Air is made up of 78% Nitrogen, 21% Oxygen and the rest by Carbon Dioxide (0.04%) and other gases in very small concentrations. A change in these proportions significantly changes the storage conditions and respiratory activity of food.

The packaging of food products in modified atmosphere consists of replacing the atmosphere that surrounds said food product with another specially designed to minimise chemical, enzymatic and microbial reactions.

The storage time limit is multiplied by 2 for products with significant water activity (>0.91) and by up to 5 when the water activity is lower.

Our food grade gases are specially formulated for modified atmosphere packaging, enhancing the properties of each gas molecule:

Nitrogen (N₂)

  • Prevents oxidation
  • Limits the growth of aerobic bacteria
  • Protects against container collapse

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

  •  Limits the growth of bacteria
  • Stops the development of mold
  • Contributes to the collapse of the container

Oxygen (O₂)

  • Maintains the intense colour of red meat
  • Avoids anaerobic conditions
  • Essential for the respiration of fruits and vegetables

Argon (Ar)

  • Nitrogen like benefits
  • Respiration - inhibiting effect of fresh fruits and vegetables

The result:

✓The original quality of food products is preserved
✓Prolonged freshness
✓Preserve colour food. A perfect visibility of the product is maintained, food color looks better in MAP 

Comparison of the shelf life of products in air and in a protective atmosphere

Product Recommended atmosphere Service life in air (indicative value) Service life under MAP (indicative value)
Dry products 100% nitrogen 1 month Several months
Fresh pasta 50% nitrogen
50% CO₂
6 days 21 days
Fresh pizza 70% nitrogen
30% CO₂
6 days 21 days
Crepes 50% nitrogen
50% CO₂
15 days 1-2 months
Precooked bread 100% CO₂ 10 days 2-3 months
Pressed cheese 80% nitrogen
20% CO₂
1-2 weeks 4 weeks
Mixed salad, ready to eat 85-90% nitrogen
8-10% CO₂
2-5 %O₂
2-5 days 6-7 days
Sandwich 70% nitrogen
30% CO₂
2 days 8 days
Cooked ham 50% nitrogen
50% CO₂
6 days 21 days
Fish steak 60% nitrogen
40% CO₂
3 days 5 days
Cut poultry 70% nitrogen
30% CO₂
4 days 7 days
Mince 70% nitrogen
30% CO₂
1 days 4 days
Processed meats 70% nitrogen
30% CO₂
4 days 30 days

Packaging in a protective atmosphere is adapted to each type of product

Discover the gas solutions developed to meet the specific needs of each of your products. 

Our recommended gas and equipment solutions for your operations

Our experts will help you choose the right gas for your production and give you advice on the use of related equipment.

 

Related Gas

Related Equipment

On-site Mixer

The On-site Mixer delivers food grade products mixed on-site with the same quality as Packaged Gases, for food applications.

Why Choose Us


 

  • Industry Leader
    We are a global leader in gases, technologies and services for Industry and Health.

  • Reliability
    Our solutions are reliable, reproducible and in compliance with stringent and ever-evolving regulations.

  • Expertise
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  • One-Stop Solution Provider
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  • Extensive Infrastructure Network
    Benefit from our robust production and filling infrastructure, including extensive pipeline networks.

  • Focus on Quality
    Expect nothing less than the highest standards in process and product quality.

  • Sustainability
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