Modified-atmosphere-packed ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meat products

Abstract

There have been tremendous changes in all aspects of the meat and meat products group in the last few years. These changes encompass the development, production, distribution and storage of product, legislation and, last but not least, changes of attitude by the consumers. The consumers of today want convenience; convenience in preparation, packaging, portion control and convenience in serving whether cooking is required or not. They also want, and take for granted, product safety. The ‘use by’ or ‘best before’ date on any product is regarded as a guaranteed date of safe quality, and if any other attitude is taken, it is more likely to be one of regarding it as a minimum date with one or two extra days to be taken without any decline in quality or safety.