Processed Meat Is More Than Just Bacon and Hot Dogs
When we mention processed meat, the majority of society envisions a pack of crispy bacon in farmers’ markets or bags of hot dogs in the butcher’s window. This is a common and comforting scene and there is a lot going on behind this scene. Processed meat refers to meat that has gone through certain preservation methods before it is served to the consumer. This may include methods like curing, smoking, drying, or other forms of preservation. Some common examples of processed meat include sausages, packaged deli meat, canned ham, and ground meat. As habits surrounding processed how eat change, the meat industry continues to grow to supply the demand. GMI Research forecasts Indonesia’s Meat Market to exceed $26.5 billion by the year 2032. This data indicates processed meat contributes greatly to the economy as well as modern gastronomy.
So what happens to meat before it is placed in a sandwich, or thrown on a barbecue?
Why is meat processed?
Curing is one of the oldest forms of food preservation. Before the invention of the modern refrigerator, food would rot without some means of preservation. Salt curing or smoking were some of the first methods used throughout human history to prevent meat from spoiling. With these methods, people were able to add a variety of new flavors to their meat that were previously nonexistent.
In modern society, the reasoning is quite similar. Processing meat enhances its durability, simplifies storage, and eases preparation, as well as extending the shelf-life of the product. Additives like sodium nitrite are used to inhibit the growth of certain microbes, and cure meat other meats with a characteristic pink color.
Varieties of Processed Meats
There are many varieties of meats sold, and process meats can be prepared in many ways.
Some have a high moisture content and are fully cooked during the processing stage, like cooked ham and frankfurters. Others dry, and with little moisture, e.g. salami and bacon. These processing methods affect the texture, taste, and shelf-life of the finished product.
The process of modern packaging can also affect the shelf-life of processed meats. Because of their vacuum-sealed packaging, they are able to keep more meat fresh and provide a longer life to the product.
Important Factors in Storage and Handling
The methods of preservation can be advanced, but processed meats and their modern packaging still require proper storage. If stored improperly, bacteria can still breed, so refrigeration, packaging, and even expire dates are still rules to be followed.
Remind yourself that convenience foods still require your attention.
Innovation and Tradition
Processed meats can be incorporated into many different meals. They are suited to many different taste preferences, and so it is unsurprising that they have captured the preferences of many consumers separated by distance and culture.
The next time you are eating a product which contained preserve foods, you can acknowledge the many different preserve techniques which have gone into making your product a reality.