The primary difference between modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and active packaging lies in their approach to controlling the atmosphere inside a package: MAP passively changes the atmosphere, while active packaging actively manages it.
Here's a breakdown:
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
- Definition: MAP involves changing the composition of the internal atmosphere of a package to improve shelf life. This is typically done by adjusting the levels of gases like oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.
- Mechanism: Often, the atmosphere is altered initially and then maintained by the packaging material.
- Active vs. Passive: As defined by the FDA, there are passive and active types of MAP. The referenced text is about active MAP, which displaces gases to replace them with a desired mixture. Passive MAP relies on selecting a specific film type for packaging that will naturally modify the atmosphere over time.
- Example: Packaging fresh produce in a bag that has reduced oxygen and increased carbon dioxide to slow down respiration and spoilage.
Active Packaging
- Definition: Active packaging incorporates components that release or absorb substances into or from the packaged product or the environment surrounding the product.
- Mechanism: Active packaging uses additives or materials that release or absorb gases to maintain or change the atmosphere, control moisture, or inhibit microbial growth.
- Examples:
- Oxygen absorbers: Remove oxygen from the package to prevent spoilage.
- Ethylene absorbers: Remove ethylene gas to slow down ripening in fruits and vegetables.
- Moisture absorbers: Control humidity levels to prevent mold growth.
- Carbon dioxide emitters: Release carbon dioxide to inhibit microbial growth.
- Antimicrobial packaging: Releases antimicrobial agents to prevent microbial growth.
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) | Active Packaging |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Action | Changes the initial atmospheric composition. | Interacts with the product or environment |
| Mechanism | Replacing gases, selecting film type for permeability. | Releasing or absorbing substances. |
| Examples | Flushing a package with nitrogen. | Oxygen absorbers, moisture absorbers. |
In essence, MAP primarily focuses on creating a modified atmosphere initially, while active packaging dynamically maintains or changes the atmosphere or other conditions during storage to enhance product quality and shelf life.
