Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
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If sound, humane, and healthy organic methods are used to grow poultry, the main purpose of
marketing is to let the consumer know that. Consumers of organic poultry want to know that
the birds were raised with care and compassion. They want to know that they received high-
quality organic feed and had room to roam. They want the freshest product possible, and they
want it to be delicious. Organic growers can offer all of these things plus innovation, dedica-
tion, and, above all, integrity. Small organic growers know that organic and free-range are not
merely marketing ploys; they are farming methods with a deep integrity.
When packaging an organic product it is important to consider what materials the product will
come in contact with and how it will be stored. Most FDA-approved plastic wraps or storage
bags are made from three types of plastic: polyethylene (PE), polyvinlidene chloride (PVCD),
or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Plasticizers, colorants, or antifogging compounds may also be ad-
ded. Even standard freezer paper is coated on one side with plastic to keep air out and prevent
loss of moisture and freezer burn. PVC is usually preferred for wrapping meat as it protects
against moisture loss, but has some oxygen permeability so allows meat to “bloom” (stay red
and fresh looking). Shrink-wrapping involves a PVC film that shrinks when heated producing a
tight fit. Vacuum packaging removes most of the air from containers before sealing in order to
preserve flavor and retard bacterial growth. (
Note
: Some of these bags may be dusted with
cornstarch for easy handling; this could easily be from GMO corn). The foam trays that meat is
commonly wrapped on are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). This material is made by
adding foaming agents to polystyrene and passing it through a die. It is also used to make foam
egg cartons.
With all these materials, small amounts of chemicals from packaging materials can migrate
into foods. Some are not heat stable, and chemicals from plastic may migrate into food if left
