Global modified atmosphere packaging market projected to cross US$13 bln by 2020

03-Sep-15

The Global Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market is projected to reach US$13.78 bln by 2020, at a CAGR of 4.3%, as per MarketsandMarkets. Modified atmosphere packaging is the replacement of air in a pack with a single gas or a mixture of gases, wherein the proportion of each component is fixed, when the mixture is introduced in the pack. High barrier substrates, such as ethylene vinyl alcohol, poly ethylene, oriented polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, and others, become MAP packages after they are formed into trays, lid stock or bags, and are filled with a selected blend of different gases. The modified atmosphere packaging concept for packaged goods is the procedure of modifying the atmosphere surrounding a food product by vacuum, gas flushing, or controlled permeability of the pack, thus, controlling the biochemical, enzymatic, and microbial actions to decrease the degradations/spoilage that might occur in a food item. This allows preservation of freshness of the food product without controlling the temperature or subjecting it to any chemical treatments, such as canning, freezing, dehydration, and other processes. Hence, modified atmosphere packaging is an optimum blend of pure oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen within either a high barrier or permeable package. These blends of gases are modified as per the respiratory needs of the packaged product. In 2015, North America is estimated to be the largest market for modified atmosphere packaging. Furthermore, Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing market for modified atmosphere packaging during the period under consideration. This market is also driven by the rising income levels, changing lifestyles, and growing demand for convenience and ready-to-eat foods in the emerging economies.