Which gases are typically used in MAP? (And which aren’t?)

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) has been widely used in the food industry for many years to preserve the freshness and quality of food products. However, MAP is not limited to the food industry alone. In recent years, more and more non-food industries have started using MAP to preserve the quality and freshness of their products. This blog will explore how MAP is being used in non-food industries to preserve quality and freshness, with examples of different products and industries.

The Benefits of Modified Atmosphere Packaging

MAP offers a number of benefits to non-food industries. By controlling the composition of gases surrounding a product, MAP can help to:

• Extend shelf life: By limiting the exposure of products to oxygen, MAP can prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
• Maintain freshness: MAP can help to maintain the freshness of products by limiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
• Prevent damage: MAP can protect products from damage caused by exposure to light, moisture, and other external factors.
• Reduce waste: By extending the shelf life of products, MAP can help to reduce waste and minimize the need for frequent restocking.

Industries That Benefit from Modified Atmosphere Packaging

While MAP is most commonly associated with the food industry, it is now being adopted by a range of non-food industries. Here are some examples:

Modified Atmosphere Packaging for pharmaceuticals 

Many pharmaceutical products require a controlled atmosphere to maintain their efficacy. MAP can be used to maintain the appropriate level of oxygen and carbon dioxide to preserve the quality and effectiveness of drugs. 

MAP for pharmaceutical packaging is designed to maintain the efficacy of drugs and prevent the growth of microorganisms.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging for the cannabis industry

Cannabis has a high concentration of terpenes and cannabinoids, which give it its characteristic odor and flavor. But, the quality of cannabis deteriorates quickly after harvest, and its potency is reduced due to exposure to light, heat, and oxygen. MAP is used in the cannabis industry to preserve the quality and freshness of the plant.

By controlling the gas composition inside the packaging, the concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide can be maintained, which slows down the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. This ensures that the potency and flavor of the product remain intact.MAP can also help in maintaining the moisture content of the cannabis. By regulating the gas composition, the humidity inside the packaging can also be maintained, which prevents the drying out of the product.

MAP in the Chemicals Industry

MAP is also used in the chemicals industry to preserve the quality of chemicals. Chemicals are used in various industries and have a limited shelf life. They can react with the air, moisture, or other chemicals, which can reduce their quality and effectiveness.

By using MAP, the air inside the packaging can be modified, which helps in preserving the quality of the chemicals. The concentration of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen can be controlled to prevent the oxidation of chemicals. This ensures that the chemicals remain effective for a longer period.

Could MAP be used in other industries as well?

While it is not the standard yet and not yet widely adopted, there could be more potential purposes for MAP.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging for Flowers

Flowers are perishable and sensitive to ethylene, a gas that can cause wilting and deterioration. MAP can be used to reduce the levels of ethylene in the packaging, preserving the freshness and appearance of the flowers. Read here about the effect of MAP on orchid flowers.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging for Cosmetics

The quality and efficacy of cosmetic ingredients can be compromised by exposure to oxygen and light. MAP could be used to limit exposure to these factors, preserving the quality of cosmetics.

Masterpack’s Solutions for Non-Food Industries

Our products are designed to help food- and non-food industries extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of their products. If you want to learn more about the possibilities for your product, reach out to our team.