Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) relies on the interplay between product-respiration and packagefilm-
permeability with the aim of maintaining initial quality and extending shelf-life of fresh produce.
This work evaluates the effect of MAP engineering design parameters (amount of product, number of perforations
and weight of CO2 scavenger) on quality of sliced mushrooms. Sliced button mushrooms were
packed in a tray, covered with cellophane film, and stored at 10 C for 3 days. Headspace gas composition
and chemical and physical quality parameters (weight loss, pH, firmness and colour) were measured
throughout the storage period. All design parameters produced a significant effect (p < 0.05) on quality.
Addition of CO2 scavenger in the package increased the deterioration of mushrooms. MAP optimisation
design requires consideration of mushroom weight and number of film perforations. The optimal conditions
found were 110 g of sliced mushrooms and 2 perforations (0.33 mmdiameter) which led to an equilibrium
gas composition of 3.6% O2 and 11.5% CO2, after 3 days of storage at 10 C.
2011 Elsevier Ltd.