If you run a meat-related business, you would know the importance of meat processing. Know that meat is a sensitive food item. You will have to consider many factors to keep the raw meat fresh. Minor negligence can result in spoilt meat. That is why people pay the most attention to meat processing. Some of us think meat processing is just the cutting of raw meat. In reality, meat processing is a long process. It includes cutting, packaging, handling, and storing it in blast chillers. Raw meat is prone to bacteria and spoiling. The raw meat you buy from the shops has gone through a long process. Meat handlers try their best to keep them safe. Know that meat processing is not hectic. The steps of meat processing are easy. All it needs is your full attention and responsibility. Below we have mentioned five meat processing guidelines to help you out.
- Choose the Best Tools
Know that you cannot cut the meat with any available tools. You will need specialized tools to perform this. If you don’t use the best tools, you will get the wrong cut meat. You have to consider the muscles, fat, and bones to cut the meat. Some people think domestic knives will do the work. But you will need sharp and big knives to cut raw meat in bulk. Know that knife is not the only tool you need. A list of tools for meat cutting is as follows.
Wooden solid cutting table (Make sure it is big and thick and it doesn’t easily break)
Sharpening steel (to sharpen the knives)
Oil or Water sharpening stone
Knives (20cm straight for boning and 30cm curved for steak)
Wrapping table
Foil (both paper and plastic)
Masks, caps, and gloves
Bins
- Hygiene Matters the Most
Hygiene is the most crucial factor when it comes to food-related business. We all know that raw meat is prone to bacteria and germs. Bacteria can make your meat spoil fast. Hygiene is also a legal policy for every business. The government will shut down your business if you don’t have a clean environment. Make sure you wipe all meat juices from any surface. There should be no blood anywhere on the floor. Remember that bugs, insects, and flies are enemies of your business. Make sure you always cover the meat if it is not under any process. Clean and wash your area every few hours.
- Handling Guidelines
Meat is a perishable food since it requires different techniques than veggies and fruits. Keeping meat with veggies and fruits will be the worst mistake you can make. Make sure you wash your hands before you touch meat. The best way is to wear gloves. Your gloves should be clean as well.
- How to Freeze?
The most common storage method for meat is freezing. Make sure you pack the raw meat in plastic foil. Now place the meat in an airtight container. Do not defrost the meat too many times.
- Try Other Methods.
Freezing is not the only storage method for meat. There are many other methods you can try. If you want to store meat for some time, refrigeration is the best option. Another way is canning the raw meat. You can also try fermentation or drying meat methods for your raw meat.
