Modified atmosphere packaging of cultivated mushroom (Agaricus bisporus L.) with hydrophilic films

Unique gas barrier properties of hydrophilic films (wheat gluten-based material and synthetic polymer) have been tested through practical application such as modified atmosphere packaging. Mushrooms have been packed under microporous and hydrophilic films and stored at 10degreesC and 20degreesC under high relative humidity (>92%). Atmospheric and quality changes (cap opening, color) were assessed during storage. Unique steady state atmospheres, poor in both oxygen and carbon dioxide, were observed, regardless of the temperature and the hydrophilic film used, owing to their high selectivity to gas diffusion. A transitional phase characterized by a CO2, partial pressure peak has been evidenced and could imply quality change. The proposed MAP model fit experimental data with a mean error of 0.88 kPa.