Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is an innovative technique that is changing the way we preserve our food. But have you ever heard of it? Imagine opening a package of food and finding the indication “Modified Atmosphere Packaging”. You’ve probably wondered what it means and how it works. Don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll tell you all about it.
Modified Atmosphere Packaging is a food preservation technique that allows us to delay its natural degradation. How to achieve this? By altering the composition of the gases inside the package, reducing the amount of oxygen and adjusting humidity levels. So the growth of microorganisms will slow down and the oxidation reactions will reduce, maintaining freshness and organoleptic properties.
But where is this technique applied? On a wide variety of products! From fruits and vegetables to meat, fish, dairy and baked goods, modified atmosphere packaging has become a fundamental tool in the food industry to ensure the quality and safety of the food we consume every day.
The use of nitrogen in the food industry preserves food and minimizes oxidation reactions
Oxygen, essential for life, is also a catalyst for food degradation. By reducing its presence in the package, we can extend the shelf life of the product without compromising its taste or appearance. Therefore, protective atmosphere packaging not only gives us a longer shelf life, but also the guarantee of fresh food for a longer period of time.
How do companies manage to reduce the oxygen concentration inside a package?
There are several alternatives, but one of the most effective is to replace oxygen, which is vital for life, with nitrogen, an inert gas.
Nitrogen (N2) is the main component of the protective atmosphere. As an inert gas, N2 is essential to prevent food oxidation and inhibit the growth of microbes and other microorganisms, ensuring the preservation of food as well as the maintenance of its appearance and organoleptic properties.
Producing your own nitrogen on-site
In the changing landscape of the food industry, sustainability has become a key issue for both companies and consumers. That is why, at GasN2, we are committed to more environmentally friendly practices. We have developed innovative technologies that enable food suppliers to produce their own nitrogen on-site. This solution not only provides a reliable source of nitrogen, essential for various applications in the food industry, but also has a positive impact on sustainability.
By eliminating the need to rely on regular supplies of gas in the form of cylinders or tanks, companies can reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing the transportation and storage of these gases. In addition, producing nitrogen on site reduces dependence on external resources and promotes autonomy and efficiency in the supply chain.
Ultimately, implementing these sustainable technologies not only benefits the environment, but can also result in significant savings for companies in the long run.
In summary, Modified Atmosphere Packaging is an indispensable tool for the food industry. This revolutionary technique has proven to be highly effective in preserving foods, extending their shelf life and maintaining their quality, flavor and texture.
