Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Modified atmosphere packaging for leafy vegetables

Rickard, J.E. et al.

2015

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Summary

This paper, published in Food Packaging and Shelf Life in 2015, reviews the application of modified atmosphere packaging to leafy vegetables, examining how controlled gas environments can extend postharvest shelf life and preserve quality attributes. It likely synthesises evidence on optimal gas mixtures, packaging materials, and temperature interactions relevant to commercially important leafy crops. The review provides a technical reference for postharvest technologists and food supply chain operators seeking to reduce waste and maintain product quality.

UK applicability

The findings are broadly applicable to UK fresh produce supply chains, where MAP is widely used for bagged salads and leafy greens sold through retail; the principles reviewed are relevant to UK growers, packers, and retailers managing postharvest quality and reducing food waste.

Key measures

Gas composition (O₂/CO₂ levels); shelf life (days); colour and texture retention; microbial counts; visual and sensory quality scores

Outcomes reported

The study likely examined the effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the postharvest quality, shelf life, and physicochemical properties of leafy vegetables, assessing parameters such as colour retention, gas composition, microbial load, and sensory quality over storage periods.

Theme
General food systems / other
Subject
Fruit & vegetables
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Food supply chain
Catalogue ID
XL0252

Topic tags

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