Modified atmosphere packaging and irradiation to preserve contemporary food-based art: An experimental study
a b s t r a c t
This paper evaluates the application of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and irradiation for preserving
contemporary food-based art. Both techniques are used in the food industry for preservation of
foodstuffs present in the food chain. An experimental study on the artwork Eggs (1997, S.M.A.K.) by the
Belgian artist Peter De Cupere was performed. The context for conservation was determined by analysing
the production method of the artwork, the artist’s intention and the degradation processes of the food
materials used. Experimental laboratory studies involved accelerated ageing tests using test samples of
the work. From the results obtained specific guidelines to preserve the work were proposed. This study
showed that food preservation techniques could contribute to the development of effective strategies for
the conservation of perishable contemporary art respecting the overall context.