Meat Packaging

Question 1

Why is packaging important?

Answer 1

• Protects the product
• Communication to the consumer

• If it doesnt look good, a consumer will not purchase it

Question 2

T/F: Utilization of correct packaging can extend shelf-life

Answer 2

True

Question 3

What is active packaging?

Answer 3

The incorporation of specific compounds into packaging systems to maintain or extend product quality and shelf-lfe

Question 4

What types of packaging does wholesale meat packing rely on?

Answer 4

Vacuum packaging

50 pieces/min

Question 5

What is vacuum packaging used for?

Answer 5

• Boxed meat
• Oxygen/moisture impermeable bags
• Extend shelf-life

3-4 ply laminants

Requires strict temperature control and control of anaerobic micoorganisms

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of vacuum packaging?

Answer 6

• Purge: Proteins leaving with water from the meat
• Consumer acceptibility of color: deoxymyoglobin (purple meat; doesn’t look as “fresh”)

Question 7

How does retail meat packaging differ from wholesale packaging?

Answer 7

• More variety than wholesale packaging
• More focus on shelf-life maintenance and appearance

Question 8

What does MAP stand for?

Answer 8

Modified Atmosphere Packaging

Question 9

How much CO% is approved for use in meat?

Answer 9

0.4%

Question 10

What does Master packaging do for the consumer?

Appearance/ perception

Answer 10

Gives the appearance that meat was packaged at retail store

Question 11

What are the components of a label?

Answer 11

1. Accurate product name (i.e. extra lean ground beef)
2. List of ingredients (in order from greatest to smallest amount)
3. Name and place of business of packer, manufacturer, or person for whom product is prepared.
4. Net weight
5. Official federal or state inspection stamp
6. Official plant number
7. Handling instructions, if the product is perishable.