Market Trends of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market according to our research experts:
Carbon Dioxide is Expected to Hold a Major Position in the Market
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It has an oxidation-inhibiting and growth-inhibiting effects on most aerobic bacteria and molds. The gas is frequently used to increase the shelf life of food. The shelf life of packaged or stored food is normally longer, depending on the content of CO2.
- For this reason, the antimicrobial activity of CO2 is markedly greater at temperatures below 10℃, compared to 15℃ or higher. This has significant implications for MAP in food packaging. In some MAP applications, pack collapse is favored, for example, inflow wrapped cheese for retail sale.
- It effectively stops or reduces microbial activity and helps to retain texture. Soft cheeses can also be packaged in atmospheres with increased carbon dioxide levels and low oxygen levels to inhibit bacterial growth and rancidity. In packaging for hard cheeses, the carbon dioxide level is up to 100%, while in the case of soft cheeses, the level is usually restricted to 20–40%. However, in the case of bread spoilage, mold, an aerobic microorganism, can be effectively controlled by carbon dioxide and low oxygen content, which subsequently extends shelf-life.
- Meat and sausage products, especially raw meat, are expected to get spoilt, due to microbial growth, on account of their increased moisture and nutrient content. Apart from extraordinary hygiene standards and permanent cooling, modified atmospheres can considerably extend the shelf life of meat and sausage products. CO2 is the protective gas used in these types of packaging. With concentrations above 20%, CO2 can considerably decrease microbial growth.
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North America is Expected to Witness Significant Growth
- The US modified atmosphere packaging industry is undergoing a push toward e-commerce platforms. Meals and snack bars are still relatively minor as a sales segment when online purchases are taken into consideration, although it is a growing segment. With subscription boxes and grocery pickups existing and available from online shopping, their augmented access may result in the growth of the market.
- The primary reasons driving the growth of the North American market are the increasing demand for fresh and quality packaged food, hygienic packaging of food, manufacturers' demand for extended shelf life, and on-the-go lifestyle. The advancements in food packaging technology and equipment, coupled with the swing towards easy-to-handle and convenient packaging, are also factors that drive the market growth.
- However, the increased cost of development and stringent government legislation are the factors that are hindering the growth of the market. On the other hand, to gain consumers' confidence in food safety, advanced packaging technology may act as a tool for product differentiation and can present multiple opportunities for the vendors in the market.
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