Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) relies on the interplay between product-respiration and package-film-permeability with the aim of maintaining initial quality and extending shelf-life of fresh produce. This work evaluates the effect of MAP engineering design parameters (amount of product, number of perforations and weight of CO(2) scavenger) on quality of sliced mushrooms. Sliced button mushrooms were packed in a tray, covered with cellophane film, and stored at 10 degrees C for 3 days. Headspace gas composition and chemical and physical quality parameters (weight loss, pH, firmness and colour) were measured throughout the storage period. All design parameters produced a significant effect (p < 0.05) on quality. Addition of CO(2) scavenger in the package increased the deterioration of mushrooms. MAP optimisation design requires consideration of mushroom weight and number of film perforations. The optimal conditions found were 110 g of sliced mushrooms and 2 perforations (0.33 mm diameter) which led to an equilibrium gas composition of 3.6% O(2) and 11.5% CO(2), after 3 days of storage at 10 degrees C. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.