Mathematical model for perforation effect on oxygen and water vapor dynamics in modified-atmosphere packages.
Fishman S., Rodov V., Ben-Yehoshua S.
Author Affiliation: Department of Statistics & Operations Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50 250, Israel.
Journal of Food Science 61 : 956-961
Abstract : A mathematical model was developed to study the influence of film perforations on O2 concentration and relative humidity in the atmosphere in a package containing fresh fruits. The model included equations describing fruit respiration and transpiration as well as permeation of oxygen and water vapour through the perforated film. Closed-system experiments with mango fruits revealed a linear dependence of respiration rate on O2 concentration. The model allowed analytical computation of the time course of in-package O2 concentration and relative humidity, and the results were in good agreement with experimentally measured values. Perforations had a much more pronounced effect on O2 concentration than on relative humidity. The model enabled practical predictions for designing modified-atmosphere packaging.