Processing & Preservation

Modified atmosphere packaging MAP

Replacing the air in a pack with a controlled gas mixture, typically carbon dioxide, nitrogen and sometimes oxygen, then sealing without further adjustment.

Real-life application

The reason a packet of sliced bread, salad leaves or cut fruit in a supermarket looks puffed up with gas rather than vacuum sealed.

Related terms

Controlled atmosphere storage

Processing & Preservation

Bulk storage in which gas composition is continuously monitored and actively corrected, used mainly for fruit such as apples.

Hurdle technology

Processing & Preservation

Combining several mild preservation factors — pH, aw, temperature, preservatives, redox potential — so that their combined effect prevents microbial growth where none alone would suffice.

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