MAP Meal Trays: Extend Shelf Life with Modified Atmosphere Packaging

MAP meal trays are specialized packaging solutions that combine Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) technology with a tray design to preserve the freshness and quality of prepared meals. These trays are designed to hold complete meals, including main dishes, sides, and sometimes desserts, in a single container while maintaining an optimal gas environment that slows down spoilage. The modified atmosphere within the tray is typically a blend of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to inhibit bacterial growth, nitrogen (N₂) to prevent oxidation and maintain tray shape, and a small amount of oxygen (O₂) to preserve the color and texture of certain ingredients, such as cooked meats or vegetables. Constructed from high-barrier plastics like PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or PP (polypropylene), MAP meal trays are rigid enough to hold the meal components securely without mixing, while their airtight seals—achieved through heat-sealed films or snap-on lids—maintain the integrity of the modified atmosphere. The trays often feature compartmentalized designs to separate different parts of the meal, preventing sogginess and preserving the texture of each component, such as keeping sauces separate from grains or vegetables. They are transparent, allowing consumers to view the entire meal, enhancing appeal, and many are microwave-safe, enabling convenient heating without transferring the food to another container. MAP meal trays come in various sizes to accommodate individual portions or family-sized meals, making them suitable for retail, catering, or food service. Manufactured in hygienic conditions, they comply with food safety standards to ensure safety for direct contact with food. By extending the shelf life of prepared meals, MAP meal trays reduce food waste, improve convenience for consumers, and allow retailers to offer a wider range of pre-packaged meal options with longer expiration dates.