FOOD NEWS
The Special Packaging That Makes Grocery Store Steaks Last Even More
BY JENNIFER SWEENIE
Steak can often be found in a small tray with a tight plastic covering. This is called modified atmosphere packaging, and it can keep your steak fresher for longer at home.
Manufacturers pump carbon dioxide and/or nitrogen into these containers, which slows down spoilage and extends the shelf-life of the steak with an atmosphere different from air.
The carbon dioxide in modified atmosphere packaging mitigates the growth of mold, yeasts, and other microorganisms, which can extend the shelf-life by up to 200 percent.
With this packaging, you’ll want to be careful to check the use-or-free-by date because the steak may keep its color even after it has spoiled, for possibly more than 20 days.