PMA-MAP based packaging solution for fresh horticultural produce
Teagasc wishes to engage with relevant industry to bring this packaging technology to market – focusing on the soft berries and herbs markets initially.
Photo credit: naran/istockphoto.com
Technology – value proposition
- Perforation-mediated active modified packaging (PMA-MAP), developed at Teagasc Ashtown’s Food Research Centre, offers novel packaging solutions for soft berries and herbs.
- Compared to conventional packaging, PMA-MAP has led to shelf-life extensions of 10 days for strawberries and 5 days for hydroponically grown basil.
- Helping fruit and herb producers extend product shelf-life may reduce food loss and waste.
Unique selling propositions
- A three-step platform technology allowing tailoring for various horticultural produce, optimising shelf life and quality.
- The combined system includes gas flushing with optimised gas combinations, micro-perforation of films and use of appropriate recyclable/biodegradable/compostable packaging material.
Development stage
- Validated at pilot scale for strawberries (24kg in multiple punnets) and basil (12kg in multiple pouches).
- Shelf life of strawberries extended to 26 days and basil (hydroponic) 10 days.
- Looking to validate at commercial scale.
Opportunity to engage
Teagasc welcomes engagement from the following to help guide our commercialisation strategy:
- Irish horticulture producers, e.g. berries and herbs.
- Packaging suppliers seeking sustainable innovative solutions.
Research funding
SFI Food Waste Challenge: LEAF NO WASTE, led by Technological University of Dublin.
Teagasc Principal Investigator: Shivani Pathania, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown.
For further details, please contact Miriam Walsh: engage[at]teagasc.ie or miriam.walsh[at]teagasc.ie (Ref: PMA-MAP)
For more opportunities to engage with Teagasc, click on the link below.