US 4,919,955 A · Method for packaging perishable products

Abstract

A method and apparatus for packaging perishable products is disclosed, said method and apparatus enabling the alteration of the gaseous environment surrounding a given product. The packaging system can be readily prepared for immediate transport and aging, retail display and consumer freezing. The present system comprises a relatively rigid tray which is sealed with a flexible gas impermeable cover, said tray being provided with a resealable septum valve. The tray is also preferably provided with a plurality of protrusions or mounds so as to facilitate gas flow and contact with a given perishable product. The atmosphere in the packaging system may be modified to inhibit bacterial decay of the product and/or to enhance its appearance. Likewise, the package may be prepared for freezing by drawing a substantial vacuum within the packaging system.

Claims12

Dependent claims

A method for processing a perishable fresh meat product for controlled aging and subsequent presentation to the consumer, comprising the sequential steps of:

positioning the product on a gas impermeable package tray;
sealing said product on said tray in a non-inert atmosphere with a gas impermeable cover so as to form a gas tight package;
inserting an atmosphere exchange apparatus through a septum valve disposed in the tray
removing the non-inert gas from within the package through said valve disposed in said package;
filling the interior of the package through said valve with a first gas capable of forming an anaerobic atmosphere in said package;
aging said product in the anaerobic atmosphere in said package;
removing said first gas from said package though said valve;
filing the interior of said package with a second gas conducive to the formation of oxymyoglobin in said meat product;
maintaining said meat product in said package in said second gas for at least a time sufficient to product a bloom in said meat product;
removing said second gas from the package through said valve;
and
freezing said product while in said package.

9 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method for packaging perishable products

Life of this patent

Method for packaging perishable products

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims12