215-822-0600
Roberts Technology Group, Inc.

Exclusive provider of ILPRA and SOLLAS equipment in North America

Click to toggle navigation menu.
LinkedIn Instagram Brochures

What Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Does to Raw Meat

What Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Does to Raw Meat

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a packaging technology where the air inside a package is replaced with a specific gas mixture—commonly carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen (N₂), and sometimes oxygen (O₂)—to extend shelf life and preserve freshness.

Effects of MAP on Raw Meat:

  1. Extends Shelf Life
    • CO₂ inhibits the growth of spoilage bacteria and mold.
    • Nitrogen acts as a filler gas to prevent package collapse and oxidation.
  2. Preserves Fresh Appearance
    • Oxygen (usually in controlled amounts) can help maintain the bright red color of fresh meat (important for beef).
    • However, excessive oxygen can accelerate oxidation, so the gas mix is carefully calibrated.
  3. Maintains Texture and Moisture
    • Reduced oxygen helps slow protein degradation and prevents moisture loss.
  4. Reduces Odors
    • By suppressing microbial activity, MAP helps minimize the development of off-odors from spoilage.
  5. Improves Food Safety
    • Lower microbial load due to antimicrobial gas mixtures makes meat safer for longer durations.

Why ILPRA Tray Sealers Are Beneficial for MAP in the Meat Industry

ILPRA is a globally recognized manufacturer of tray sealing machines, especially known for its high-precision MAP capabilities. Their machines are widely used in the meat industry due to several advantages:

1. High-Precision MAP Control

  • ILPRA machines allow exact control of gas mixture ratios and vacuum levels.
  • This ensures consistent product quality and optimized shelf life across batches.

2. Versatility

  • Compatible with various tray sizes, shapes, and materials (plastic, paper-based, eco-friendly).
  • Suitable for different meat types: beef, pork, poultry, ground meat, etc.

3. Hygienic and Robust Design

  • Built to meet food industry hygiene standards with stainless steel construction and wash-down capability.
  • Sanitary design minimizes bacteria buildup and ensures food safety.

4. High Throughput and Automation

  • Models range from semi-automatic to fully automatic lines.
  • Supports integration with weighing, labeling, and filling systems—streamlining the entire packing process.

5. Reduced Packaging Waste

  • Offers sealing precision that minimizes film usage and waste.
  • Can work with recyclable or compostable tray materials for sustainability.

6. User-Friendly Interfaces

  • Touchscreen HMI and programmable settings make operations simple, even for less experienced operators.

7. Reliability and Support

  • Known for long-lasting machines and excellent after-sales service globally.
  • Includes diagnostics and remote support features for minimal downtime.

Summary:

MAP significantly improves the safety, freshness, and appearance of raw meat. ILPRA tray sealers are particularly beneficial because they offer advanced MAP control, high productivity, flexibility, and food-grade hygiene, making them an ideal solution for modern meat packaging operations.

Would you like a breakdown of ILPRA machine models suitable for your packaging volume (e.g., small butcher shop vs. industrial processor)?