Gas Packaging - 3 Causes of Food Spoilage

Gas packaging, or Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), is the process of altering the atmospheric gas ratio to enhance the food-preserving properties of packaged products. The goal of packaging in a conditioned atmosphere is to prevent or slow down spoilage mechanisms in food that affect the appearance, smell, taste, shelf life, and safety of the product. Gas packaging offers protection against all forms of spoilage mechanisms, which can occur in three forms.

Gas packaging Prevents Oxidation

When certain components in food come into contact with oxygen, an oxidative reaction can occur. The result is spoilage, causing the food to develop an unpleasant taste, color, and smell. One solution is to remove atmospheric air, and thus oxygen, from the packaged product. This can stop or significantly reduce oxidation.

Gas Packaging Prevents Moisture Absorption

Atmospheric air contains water in the form of humidity and water vapor. If packaged in ambient conditions, certain dry food products can absorb moisture from the air in the packaging, making them damp and spoiled.

This can be prevented by using gas packaging with MAP applications. MAP applications use extremely dry nitrogen gas, containing less than 1-2 ppmv moisture. This gas is produced by nitrogen generators. The dry nitrogen gas prevents even the driest and most moisture-sensitive products from spoiling due to moisture absorption.

Gas Packaging Prevents Micro-organism Growth

Bacteria, molds, and yeasts fall under the general description of micro-organisms. These micro-organisms are categorized based on their interaction with oxygen and the extent to which this affects their metabolic and reproduction processes. Depending on the product and the naturally present micro-organisms, a promoting or inhibiting effect on these processes may be desired when the product is already in the packaging.

MAP allows for creating the right gas mix in the product packaging to achieve the desired effect on the micro-organisms in that specific product.

Generate Your Own Gas for Gas Packaging with an Avilo System

Avilo is an experienced specialist providing food-grade gas generation systems for gas packaging to a wide variety of customers within the food & beverage industry. Purchasing an on-site gas generation system compared to traditional gas supply is cost-effective for many of our customers. However, uncertainty about the application of an on-site system can be an obstacle during the transition or purchase. Installing a temporary pilot setup can provide a solution. A well-supported process, where product safety is central, has led many of our customers to choose an on-site system.