Meat and poultry products encompass a wide range of items derived from animal sources, each with its characteristics and potential uses of food additives.
Fresh and Frozen Cuts: Includes raw cuts of meat and poultry. They may be treated with antimicrobial agents like lactic acid or citric acid to reduce bacterial contamination during processing.
Processed Meats:
Common food additives in processed meats include:
Nitrites and Nitrates
Phosphates
Antioxidants
Flavor enhancers and Seasonings
Preservatives
Ground Meat and Poultry:
Additives commonly found in ground meat and poultry include:
Binders
Fillers
Antimicrobial Agents
Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Products:
Additives commonly used in RTE meat and poultry products include:
Stabilizers and Thickeners
Emulsifiers
Flavor Enhancers
FOOD ADDITIVES INVOLVED IN MEAT & POULTRY
Meat and poultry products often utilize various food additives to enhance their quality, safety, and appeal. Here are some common additives involved in meat and poultry processing:
