MAPAX

MAPAX from AGA improves the appearance and extends the shelf-life of packaged red meat, leading to increased sales and marketing opportunity to supermarkets and consumers. Using the MAPAX system, meat processors can optimize the packaging atmosphere to inhibit the growth of aerobic bacteria and prevent discoloration, thereby safely extending shelf-life to 5-8 days for meats kept at 4° C (40° F). AGA can design MAPAX systems for packaging shelf ready products as well as master packs, and both raw and value-added meat products, such as marinated steaks.

Meat products that use the MAPAX system can be packed at a central location and distributed to retail outlets. MAPAX-packed meats will keep color and quality intact, unlike meat packed with only vacuum packaging technology that will turn brown in color due to the lack of oxygen.

All MAPAX solutions use oxygen as one of the component gases to assure maintenance of a desirable red meat color. AGA's technicians work with each individual processor to develop a customized MAP solution using MAPAX technology. AGA assists in determining the necessary gas mixture, the appropriate packaging film and in modifying or providing the packaging system for successful use of MAP.

AGA supplies customized solutions for freezing and cooling, as well as Modified Atmosphere Packaging, for the food industry worldwide. AGA manufactures a full line of freezing equipment for the frozen food and ready-meals industries. Through its MAPAX group, AGA provides consulting services and industrial gases that create individualized packaging solutions for each customer and product application.

Linde Gas LLC, 6055 Rockside Woods Blvd., P.O. Box 94737, Cleveland, OH 44101-4737. Tel: 216-642-6600; Fax: 216-573-7873.