Modified Atmosphere/modified Humidity Packaging - Hazards Associated With MAP

Hazards Associated With MAP

Successful delivery of fresh produce in MAP is not without potential hazards due to incompatibility of MAP film to the fruit or vegetable it is intended to keep fresh and high dependence on good temperature management. Undesirable consequences of incompatible film and/or high temperatures may be “anaerobic respiration with the accumulation of acetaldehyde, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and lactic acid, all of fermentation, contributing to the development of off odors, off flavors, and disuse deterioration.”

Extreme changes in O
2 and CO₂ to intolerable levels often occur when fresh produce packed in improper MAP is exposed to higher than recommended temperatures during shipment and distribution. Other undesirable effects of improper MAP are initiation or aggravation of certain physiological disorders, irregular fruit ripening, and increased susceptibility to decay following physiological damage.”