Packaging inserts with myoglobin blooming agents, packages and methods of packaging

A packaging insert for a meat product package comprising:

• at least a first thermoplastic layer comprising polyethylene and/or ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and a myoglobin blooming agent that is a nitric oxide donating compound selected from the group consisting of inorganic nitrates and inorganic nitrites;
• wherein the myoglobin blooming agent is present in an amount sufficient to produce a desired red color which does not penetrate to an undesirable depth of the meat product thickness under reduced oxygen conditions;
• wherein the packaging insert is sized smaller than the meat product package to which it is to be inserted and at least a portion of the insert is in contact with the meat product.