Food Safety Certification Practice Test

Do foods packaged in a modified atmosphere require refrigeration?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if sealed

4. Depends on the type of food

The correct answer is: Yes

Foods packaged in a modified atmosphere often do require refrigeration, which is crucial for maintaining their safety and extending their shelf life. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) typically involves altering the oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen levels around the food to reduce spoilage and limit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. However, while MAP can prolong the freshness of certain products, it does not eliminate the need for proper temperature controls. Many foods, particularly perishable items like meat, dairy, and some produce, must still be kept at appropriate refrigeration temperatures to prevent bacterial growth and maintain their quality. Refrigeration slows down the metabolic processes of any microorganisms that may still be present, even in low-oxygen environments created by MAP. Therefore, it is essential to store these products under refrigeration to ensure they remain safe for consumption throughout their intended shelf life. In contrast, some products may not require refrigeration. However, the prevailing guidance suggests that most foods in modified atmosphere packaging should be refrigerated to ensure food safety, which supports the correctness of selecting that option as the answer.