Modified atmosphere and active packaging systems

Overview

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) replaces air inside a sealed package with a controlled gas mixture — typically nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and/or oxygen — to slow microbial growth, oxidation, and enzymatic browning. Amcor's MAP capabilities span gas-flush packaging for fresh meat, produce, bakery, and dairy, along with active packaging technologies: oxygen-scavenging films that remove residual headspace oxygen, moisture-regulating inserts that prevent condensation on fresh produce, and ethylene-absorbing systems that slow ripening in fruits and vegetables.

Technical specifications

• Modified atmosphere: gas-flush packaging with N₂, CO₂, and O₂ control for fresh meat, produce, bakery, and dairy
• Active packaging: oxygen-scavenging films (headspace O₂ removal), moisture-regulating inserts (condensation prevention), ethylene-absorbing systems (ripening delay)
• Barrier films: tailored OTR and MVTR for specific product requirements
• Application segments: fresh red meat, poultry, seafood, fresh produce, bakery, cheese, ready meals
• Integration: MAP systems compatible with existing filling and sealing equipment

Technology readiness level

TRL 8–9 — MAP is mature and widely deployed; newer active packaging elements are commercially available with ongoing application development.