• Controlling fruit temperature is a better way to retard decay and senescence than using
MAP. Fruit shipped at 34 ºF with good cold chain does not benefit from MAP. Fruit
shipped at 40 to 45 ºF benefits from MAP when compared to the standard liner, but will
not be as high in quality as that held at 34 °F.
• It is unlikely that any benefit from MAP will be observed in less than 7 to 10 days.
• Many different films are available. Carbon dioxide is the most important component of
MAP on cherries. Acceptable films keep the cherries at the desired atmosphere of 10 to
14% CO2, with 5% O2.
• It is not necessary to evacuate the atmosphere and heat seal the bag for it to be effective
and timely in the establishment of a modified atmosphere for cherries.
• Of the not-heat-sealed liners, LifeSpan film provided the most consistent quality
retention. MAP liner manufacturing technology is constantly evolving and new liners
could provide increased control of fruit quality.
• Besides affecting decay, the qualities most affected by MAP are firmness and acidity.
Other quality components are not affected in a consistent manner. Results often depend
on fruit quality at harvest.