“Gentle touch” modified atmosphere meat packaging system and method of packaging meat

A modified atmosphere meat package for keeping meat product fresh during periods of shipping, storage and retail display, the modified atmosphere meat package consisting of:

• a meat product;
• a lid-stock container, comprising:
• a) an opening;
• b) a peripheral edge surrounding the opening;
• c) a depression therein for the placement of the meat product inside the lid-stock container;
• and
• d) the lid-stock container formed of materials having low gas permeability;
• a sealing film consisting of an impermeable gaseous barrier;
• the sealing film bonded to the peripheral edge of the lid-stock container;
• a reduced-volume headspace in between the sealing film and the meat product;
• an optional absorbent pad configured to absorb liquids exuded from the meat product during shipping, storage and retail display;
• a “gentle touch” feature, wherein the “gentle touch” feature:
• a) prevents movement of the meat product inside the lid-stock container during shipping, storage, and retail display;
• and
• b) maintains an attractive appearance of the modified atmosphere meat package for consumers;
• spices, salts, rubs and/or seasonings placed on an entire surface of the meat product or portions thereof;
• the spices, salts, rubs and/or seasonings in between the sealing film and the meat product;
• a modified atmosphere consisting of approximately 55-65 vol. % carbon dioxide and 35-45 vol. % nitrogen;
• wherein the modified atmosphere does not contain oxygen and carbon monoxide;
• wherein the meat product extends above the peripheral edge of the lid-stock container;
• wherein the lid-stock container and sealing film limit gases from transferring into and out of the modified atmosphere meat package;
• wherein the meat product and modified atmosphere are sealed inside the modified atmosphere meat package;
• wherein the meat product appears freshly cut and packaged locally as opposed to a centralized packaging facility.