Air Products’ Research Tests the Impact on Shelf Life of reduced CO2 in Modified Atmosphere Packaging
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Research conducted by industrial gas product experts at Air Products has shown that the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) used in Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) can be reduced to as low as 20 percent while still maintaining the ability to extend the shelf life of food products.
MAP is an established and effective technology, proven to extend the shelf life of packaged foods without the need for added preservatives. It works by replacing the atmospheric air present in food packaging with carbon dioxide, nitrogen or oxygen, either on their own or in combination, depending on the product. The role of CO2 is to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and it is well documented that higher levels of the gas deliver extended shelf life.
The objective of the research was to provide clarity on the relationship between shelf life and the reduction of CO2 in the MAP mix. The research evaluated several gas mixtures with differing CO2 concentrations to determine the lowest 2content able to prolong food shelf life. The study tested four gas mixtures with CO2 concentrations of 10, 20, 30 and 40 percent balanced with nitrogen, and one control, using air, and measured their impact on a sample of ready-to-eat meatballs inoculated with microorganisms.
The findings demonstrated that the longest shelf life of at least 28 days was achieved using a CO2 ratio of between 30 to 40 percent. When the level of CO2 was dropped to 20 percent, a maximum shelf life of 21 days was achieved, while CO2 concentrations of below 20 percent delivered shelf life results equal to that of meatballs packed in air, which is typically limited to a maximum of 14 days. The research findings support other studies which have shown CO2 is effective against microbes from concentrations as low as 20 percent but that concentrations need to be higher to maximise shelf life.
Neil Hansford, industrial cryogenic and food expert at Air Products said: “Understanding the impact that changes in CO2 concentration can have on the shelf life of a product has always been of interest to food producers.
“Thanks to this research, a greater understanding of the link between CO2 concentration and shelf life has been established. Food producers can be assured that even relatively low levels of CO2 can still have a positive impact of shelf life.”
For more information about MAP, please visit: www.airproducts.expert/uk/MAPgas.
About Air Products
Air Products (NYSE:APD) is a world-leading industrial gases company in operation for nearly 80 years. Focused on serving energy, environment and emerging markets, the Company provides essential industrial gases, related equipment and applications expertise to customers in dozens of industries, including refining, chemical, metals, electronics, manufacturing, and food and beverage. Air Products is also the global leader in the supply of liquefied natural gas process technology and equipment. The Company develops, engineers, builds, owns and operates some of the world's largest industrial gas projects, including gasification projects that sustainably convert abundant natural resources into syngas for the production of high-value power, fuels and chemicals.
The Company had fiscal 2019 sales of $8.9 billion from operations in 50 countries and has a current market capitalization of over $60 billion. More than 17,000 passionate, talented and committed employees from diverse backgrounds are driven by Air Products’ higher purpose to create innovative solutions that benefit the environment, enhance sustainability and address the challenges facing customers, communities, and the world. For more information, visit airproducts.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.