Food packaging development company Sirane has launched anti-microbial absorbent packaging that can extend the shelf life of meat and poultry.
In a recent trial with a UK meat processing company Sirane's packaging gave diced beef two additional days’ of shelf life – from nine to 11 days.
The packaging includes new Dri-Fresh ABM pads which contain a blend of natural bio-flavonoids and organic acids which work together to extend shelf life.
According to the company, the pads offer absorbency and protection as well.
The ABM technology is activated by moisture, so only functions when needed.
Sirane MD Simon Balderson said the pads could result in significant financial savings for processors as two additional days' shelf life is "a huge step”.
“Sirane has been trying to help companies with their food waste reduction targets, and ABM is one way meat and poultry packers can achieve this," he said.
"The combination of flavonoids which are anti-oxidants and anti-microbial, with organic acids including citric acid and ascorbic acids, is harmless, as all elements are found naturally within fruit.
"A major difference here is the method of delivery.
"With the anti-microbial integrated into the pad, and activated only when needed, it gets efficiently to the heart of the problem.”
That said, Sirane would never promise exactly "two days more".
“Every processor and retailer’s supply chain is different, with different parameters," Balderson said.
"We’re saying you could get additional shelf life by using a pad like this – you might even get more than two days."
This story was sourced from the Active & Intelligent Packaging Association. To learn more visit www.aipia.info
