PerfoTec laser-based MAP system

PerfoTec, a laser-based modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) system, is available from Raymax Applications.

The company claims the system lowers the rate of respiration of fresh and cut produce, thereby reducing the rate of depletion. Developed in a research environment in the Netherlands, the system is suitable for suppliers of fresh fruit and vegetable packaged goods to supermarkets.

Many consumers are choosing ready meals and ready cut produce. After being harvested, fruit and vegetables still respire, consuming oxygen and emitting carbon dioxide. This can reduce shelf or fridge life.

MAP systems are designed so that the amount of oxygen in the pack meets the requirements of the produce, while dispersing the carbon dioxide it generates.

The system has automatic oxygen transmission rate (OTR) control software that allocates the number and size of perforations made by the laser according to the requirements of the produce being packaged.

Also included is a respiration meter that calculates the physiological parameters of the produce within four hours. When combined with the OTR reading, the system determines the number and size of perforations. The company claims this system improves shelf and fridge life of packaged fresh produce.