Development of a mathematical model for MAP systems applied to nonrespiring foods

A mathematical model for gas diffusion processes in MAP systems was built. The model was applied to MAP systems containing CO2, O-2, and N-2 with nonr espiring foods. The validation study was done with gelatin, and simulation trials were carried out utilizing Hake (Merluccius australis) fillets. Expe rimental results confirmed the proposed mathematical model and its numerica l solution. The prediction errors obtained in the validation Study were und er 5%; the same was true with the simulation trials whose errors were alway s lower than 5%. Both the simulation trials and validation study demonstrat ed that MAP systems reach equilibrium after a short period of time if film permeability is low.