Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Passive MAP is a packaging technique in which desired gas composition is achieved over a period of time.
Reason R: Respiration of the produce packed in a selective permeable package changes the gas composition in the package.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true but R is false
• D. A is false but R is true

Hint:

To distinguish between active and passive MAP:
- Active MAP: The desired gas mixture is injected into the package during sealing.
- Passive MAP: The packaging relies on the product's natural respiration to modify the atmosphere over time.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a preservation technique used to extend the shelf life of fresh produce by altering the gas composition (primarily \( \text{O}_2 \), \( \text{CO}_2 \), and \( \text{N}_2 \)) inside the package.
MAP can be classified as active (where the gas mixture is injected directly) or passive (where the atmosphere is modified naturally by the product).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements and their relationship:
- Assertion A: Passive MAP is a packaging method where the package is sealed with normal air inside.
Over time, a modified atmosphere with reduced \( \text{O}_2 \) and elevated \( \text{CO}_2 \) levels is established naturally inside the package.
This modified atmosphere helps slow down the ripening and spoilage of the produce.
Therefore, Assertion A is true.
- Reason R: Fresh fruits and vegetables are living tissues that continue to respire after harvest, consuming oxygen (\( \text{O}_2 \)) and releasing carbon dioxide (\( \text{CO}_2 \)).
When placed in a package made from a selectively permeable polymeric film, this respiratory gas exchange changes the internal gas composition.
Oxygen levels decrease, and carbon dioxide levels increase.
Eventually, a dynamic equilibrium is reached where the rate of respiration matches the rate of gas permeation through the packaging film.
This explains how the modified atmosphere is achieved over time.
Therefore, Reason R is true and provides the correct scientific explanation for Assertion A.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.