Making the switch to Modified Atmosphere is a big one, and it comes with quite the changes in your processes. But before even plugging in the new machine or feeling the new packaging material, there are some other steps and considerations you need to keep in mind. Here’s what you can expect from the implementation of Modified Atmosphere.
Testing, testing, testing
There’s not ‘one’ Modified Atmosphere that can be applied to any product and give you all the benefits you were looking for. Every product is different, as are the storage and shipping circumstances. That’s why we recommend starting out with experiments and research, to find out what type of MA is ideal for your situation.
In our Research and Development Center, you don’t have to interrupt your production or use the resources of your own R&D team while figuring out what works best. Our team of experts works with your product until we find a gas mixture that optimizes shelf life and quality.
What you’ll need for Modified Atmosphere Packaging
1: The right gasses
Modified Atmosphere is used as an organic way of natural fumigation, using ultra-low oxygen levels in combination with nitrogen or carbon dioxide to protect (organic) products against insects. For this, we use a vacuum and gas injection machine. We use this to customize the oxygen and nitrogen levels within FIBCs.
2: The right packaging material
Time to pick a FIBC! There are various options for this, but there are other things that are important too, even though they are way smaller. The liner for instance. The liner works as an inner bag for the FIBC. Since the liner is modular, various materials can be used to create a barrier against moist, oxygen, flavor etc. Depending on the product and circumstances during storage and transport, the liner is built up with up to 9 different layers of various materials to create a barrier against moist, keeping ultra-low oxygen levels and the flavor intact.
We use a wide range of barrier foils for our lined FIBCs such as conductive, aluminum, anti-static, dissipative, EVOH and PA liners. For a safe working environment, all our FIBCs can be designed and produced as a UN Bag or as a conductive Type B, Type C or Type D FIBC.
Another important part is the valve. The valve is mounted in the liner of the big bag. Equipped with a filter, it prevents the product from being sucked out of the bag or dust particles entering the bulk product.
3: Packaging machine for MA packaging
One of the most essential machines for Modified Atmosphere Packaging are the Vacuum and Gas Injection machines, and the sealing machines to seal off the Modified Atmosphere. Depending on your current situation, supply chain and product, we can advise you about the best equipment to use when filling your Big Bags. Just ask our experts.
4: Quality control equipment
If you truly want Modified Atmosphere to be a successful change in your business, it doesn't just stop when the bag is sealed. Thanks to Sensor Spot, we can monitor the Modified Atmosphere and quality of your product in a non-invasive way, at any given moment. Discover more in our dedicated blog.
Are you ready for Modified Atmosphere?
We’re here to help you prepare. Get in touch with our team to find out what solutions best fit your needs.