The colour stability of meat products is influenced by a large number of factors some of biochemical nature, some due to handling during slaughter and processing, and others due to packaging and storage conditions. This chapter focuses on modelling how colour shelf-life is affected by the external factors applied during packaging and storage. However, meat from different sources shows different tendencies to undergo colour deterioration and this variation in internal factors influences the developed models. Therefore some consideration will also be given to discussing how internal factors like

Fresh fish products are usually more perishable than most other foodstuffs due to their high aw, neutral pH, and presence of autolytic enzymes. The spoilage of fish and shellfish results from changes caused by oxidation of lipids, reactions due to activities of the fishes'own enzymes, and the metabolic activities of microorganisms (Ashie et al., 1996). The rate of deterioration is highly temperature dependent and can be inhibited by the use of low storage

Conceptual models are descriptions of our understanding of system that are used to shape the implementation of solutions to problems. 58 The quality and quantum of innovation that will occur in development of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) strongly depends upon the insights gained from robust conceptual models of components of MAP. In this chapter, we outline a number of simple principles about modified atmosphere(MA) systems that we believe will assist industries that apply MA technology to move beyond the rather

Modified Atmospheric Packaging(MAP)is a precise description of this shelf- life extension technique (Bennett 1995). In the UK, MAP mainly involves the use of three gases-carbon dioxide, nitrogen and oxygen although other gases are used elsewhere. Products are packed in various combinations of these three gases depending on the physical and chemical properties of the food

Modified atmosphere packaging(map) is widely used for many food products and is now a commercial and economic reality. MAP is common in markets that have a well established and controlled cold chain and that can sustain a high- priced quality product. However, MAP is a mild preservation method and a major concern is that MAP storage may not provide a sufficient level of safety for the extended storage of fresh chilled food products with regard to pathogenic

Modified atmosphere packaged (MAP )prepared fresh produce provides substrates and environmental conditions conducive to the survival and growth of microorganisms. Minimal processing treatments such as peeling and slicing disrupt surface tissues, expose cytoplasm and provide a potentially richer source of nutrients than intact produce(Brackett 1994; Barry-Ryan and O'Beirne, 1998, 2000). This, combined with high Aw and either close to neutral (vegetables) or low acid (many fruits) tissue pH, facilitate microbial growth (Beuchat, 1996)

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAPmay be defined as the enclosure of food products in gas-barrier materials in which the gaseous environment has been changed'(Young et al., 1988 Because of its substantial shelf-life extending effect, MAP has been one of the most significant and innovative growth areas in retail food packaging. The potential advantages and disadvantages of MAP have been presented by Farber (1991), Parry(1993) and Davies (1995). Whilst there is considerable information available regarding suitable gas mixtures for different food products, there is still a lack of scientific detail regarding many aspects relating to MAP. These include:

During recent years there has been an explosive growth in the market for fresh prepared fruit and vegetable (i.e. produceproducts. The main driving force for this market growth is the increasing consumer demand for fresh, healthy, convenient and additive-free prepared product items. However, fresh prepared produce items are highly perishable and prone to the major spoilage mechanisms of enzymic discoloration, moisture loss and microbial growth. Good manufacturing and handling practices along with the appropriate use of modified atmosphere packaging(mp)are relatively effective at inhibiting

Interactions within a package system refer to the exchange of mass and energy between the packaged food, the packaging material and the external environment. Food-packaging interactions can be defined as an interplay between food, packaging, and the environment, which produces an effect on the food, and/or package (Hotchkiss, 1997). Mass transfer processes in packaging systems are normally referred to as permeation, migration and absorption(fig8.1). Permeation is the process resulting from two basic mechanisms

Defined as an impact, characterized by sudden and substantial change in velocity. Shocks in the distribution environment: Accidental and deliberate drops during manual handling Drops from chutes, conveyors, and other machinery Falls from pallet loads Sudden arrests on conveyors Impacts occurring when vehicles hit potholes, curbs, or railroad tracks