Methodology for determining the appropriate selectivity of mass transfer devices for modified atmosphere packaging of fresh produce

Perforations or polymeric membranes are not capable of simultaneously providing optimum O 2 and CO 2 levels for many fruits and vegetables contained in modified atmosphere packaging. However, combining these two gas transfer devices, either in series or in parallel, can provide the required gas selectivities to create optimal modified atmosphere conditions. A methodology for determining the perforation and membrane surface areas for individual and combined systems is described. Gradient diagrams are used to calculate the optimum system selectivity, ΔpO 2 and ΔpCO 2 . These values can be used to select the appropriate gas exchange devices and to determine the appropriate perforation and membrane surface area.