Effects of modified atmosphere, associated with masterpack transport packaging, and refrigerated storage time on the quality characteristics of pork loin cuts

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the effects of modified atmosphere, associated with masterpack transport packaging, and refrigerated storage time on the quality characteristics of pork loin cuts. Cuts of pork loin were packaged in trays, covered with poly(vinyl chloride) film. The trays were placed in a masterpack (MP), containing three gas compositions:  A) 75% O₂ : 25% CO₂, B) 50% O₂ : 50% CO₂ or C) 100% CO₂, and stored at 2 °C. Samples were taken after 1, 8, 15, and 22 days of storage, and evaluated for numerous shelf life traits. The development of Psychrotrophic aerobic bacteria and Pseudomonas spp. was found from the 15^th day of storage. There was a significant treatment effect for some of the considered parameters, such as pH (P < 0.05) and color [L* (P < 0.07), a* (P < 0.07) and b* (P < 0.01)]. There was a significant interaction (P < 0.01) for the TBARS values. It can be concluded, from the microbiological point of view, that the use of modified atmospheres containing 25% to 100% CO₂ promotes the conservation of meat for up to 15 days of storage under refrigeration. From the point of view of color, atmospheres containing 75% O₂ : 25% CO₂ and 50% O₂ : 50% CO₂ ensure the color of packaged pork meat when stored at 2 °C for up to 15 days. From the point of view of lipid oxidation, packages with 100% CO₂ are recommended for storage periods of more than 15 days, whereas those with 75% O₂ : 25% CO₂ are recommended for storage periods of up to 8 days.