Factors effecting equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging of fruit and vegetables.

Equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP) is a new technique used to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables. EMAP can be defined as a modification of the atmosphere inside package achieved by respiration of product and transfer of the gases through the packaging. Manipulating the amount of oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and moisture within the packaging at the appropriate storage temperature, the modified atmospheric packaging enables the produce to live longer by delaying respiration, ripening and ethylene production. For favorable EMAP, intrinsic properties of fresh fruit and vegetables, film permeabilities and optimal package design should be known. In this review, factors effecting equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging of fruit and vegetables have been reviewed.