Top Meat Bag Manufacturers

21%. 

That’s the amount of meat wasted in the US every year. Wasted food accounts for the top dumps in landfills. Many factors contribute to this—unsustainable food production, inadequate storage facilities, improper temperature control during transportation, consumer behaviors, and contamination, to name a few. 

How does this affect businesses? Let’s take a look at the beef industry as an example. 

However, improper packing may lead to beef discoloration- a process where the meat reacts with oxygen or other factors, changing its color to a bright cherry-red appearance and eventually brown, gray, or greenish hues. For the beef industry, discoloration leads to significant economic losses. A report by Smith et al. (2000) noted that the US beef industry lost $1 billion annually because of discoloration. This loss arises from either selling discolored beef at a discount or discarding it entirely, representing a total revenue loss. Thus, vacuum-sealing and storing the meat hygienically is crucial to retain its freshness and avoid wastage. 

Meat Bags: Prevent Spoilage & Wastage

What are meat bags? Meat bags are specialized storage solutions designed to hold and preserve meat products. They are typically made from durable, non-toxic materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, prevent moisture or contamination, and ensure the meat remains fresh and safe for consumption.

Why Choose Meat Bags?

Meat bags offer a range of benefits that make them an ideal choice for storing and transporting meat products. 

• They are designed to maintain the optimal temperature and humidity levels, ensuring that the meat remains fresh and safe for consumption. 
• These are typically made from materials resistant to punctures and tears, providing a durable solution that can withstand the rigors of transportation and storage.
• Moreover, meat bags are more sustainable than traditional plastic containers. They require less material to produce and can be easily recycled or composted, reducing the environmental impact of your business operations.

What are Meat Bags made of?

Meat bags, especially those used for deli meats and similar products, are typically made from materials that are safe for food contact, durable, and capable of preserving the freshness and quality of the meat. Common materials include:

1. Polyethylene (PE) is a popular choice for its flexibility, durability, and moisture resistance. Its two variants are low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
2. Polypropylene (PP) is known for its clarity, heat resistance, and barrier properties against moisture, grease, and chemicals. It’s often used for bags that require a clear window for product visibility.
3. Nylon: Sometimes used in combination with other plastics to enhance the bag’s oxygen barrier properties, which is crucial for extending the shelf life of meat products.
4. Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC): Offers excellent oxygen and moisture barrier properties, making it suitable for meat packaging that requires extended shelf life.
5. Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics: Polylactic acid (PLA) is increasingly being explored for meat packaging as a more sustainable option, though its use is less common due to barrier and durability considerations.

These materials can be used alone or in combination in multi-layer structures to meet specific requirements, such as barrier properties, strength, and printability. The choice of material often depends on the intended use of the bag, such as whether the meat is fresh, frozen, cooked, or processed, as well as the desired shelf life and storage conditions.

Are meat bags safe for storing all types of meat?

Yes, meat bags are generally considered safe for storing various types of meat, including beef, poultry, pork, and seafood. However, choosing the right type of bag for the specific meat product is essential, considering factors like size, temperature requirements, and moisture resistance. We also recommend you purchase meat bags from trusted manufacturers and suppliers for bags with the highest quality and food-safe approval. 

How long can meat be stored in meat bags?

When storing meat in meat bags, the longevity and freshness of the meat are influenced by the type of meat, its initial packaging, and the conditions under which it’s stored. Meat bags, often made from materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, provide a primary layer of protection. However, their effectiveness in preserving meat’s quality over time varies based on several factors. USDA recommends as follows. 

• For Fresh Meats: If you’re placing fresh meats (such as beef cuts, poultry, or ground meats) in meat bags for refrigeration, expect a storage life of one to five days at or below 40°F. Fresh meats in meat bags are best consumed within this timeframe to ensure quality and safety.
• For Processed Meats: Unopened processed meats (like hot dogs and luncheon meats) stored in meat bags can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Once opened, it’s advisable to consume these meats within three to five days, similar to fresh meats.
• Freezing in Meat Bags: Meat or poultry can be frozen directly in supermarket meat bags for short-term storage. However, for long-term freezing (beyond one or two months), it’s recommended to overwrap these meat bags with airtight foil or freezer wrap. This additional layer helps protect the meat from freezer burn and preserves its quality over time.
• Canned and Retort Packaged Meats: While not directly related to meat bags, it’s worth noting that canned meats and retort packages have a shelf life of two to five years under cool, dry conditions and are safe to consume indefinitely if undamaged.

Can meat bags be reused or recycled?

The reusability and recyclability of meat bags depend on the materials they are made from and vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Many meat bags are designed to be disposable for hygiene reasons, but there are also reusable options. Please check the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper disposal or recycling options.

RediBagUSA: The Best Meat Bag Manufacturer

At RediBagUSA, we’ve been leading the way in making top-notch bags for groceries, delis, and more for over 63 years. With our roots in the USA and reaching customers in over 20 countries, we’re all about bringing you bags that are not just great to look at but also kind to our planet.

What Makes Our Bags Worth Your Investment?

RediBagUSA’s LDPE and HDPE Deli Bags are at the forefront of reliable and durable packaging for meat products. Available with zippers, sliders, and the option for up to four-color printing, these bags offer versatility and customization to meet the unique needs of grocery, restaurant, and deli businesses. For faster orders, you can rely on our ready-to-go stock meat bags.

Innovative Double Deli Slider Bags

Our double deli slider bags are perfect for packing meat, where with just one slider, your customers can easily grab what they need.

Rely on the Experience

With a complete and diversified selection of products, RediBagUSA is the company you were searching for. We handle the production, distribution, and logistics capabilities to serve some of the world’s largest international supermarkets and quick-service restaurants.

 

Contact us for more information about our offer and how we can satisfy your every packaging need!