Those who buys meat packaged in supermarkets have already used to evaluating the price, expiration date and product aspect. But there is a detail, often ignored, which is always present at the base of the tray and deserves more attention.
What is the absorbent cushion?
Mercado has decided to clarify consumers about the function of the so -called “absorbent cushion” under fresh meat. At first glance it only looks like a piece of white paper, but its role in conservation is more important than you think.
According to the Spanish supermarket chain, this small pillow ensures that the meat remains better, fresher and less risk of contamination. However, the supermarket also launched a warning: this material is only safe when used for the end for which it was conceived.
A discreet but essential role
Absorbent cushions have the mission to retain the liquids released by meat during transport and storage. Thus, they prevent the tray from having an excess of reddish fluids, which besides unsightly, can enhance the growth of bacteria.
By reducing fluid accumulation, they also contribute to meat to cook more evenly and with less water in the pan or oven. This improves not only texture, but also the final taste of the dish.
At the visual level, this detail also counts. The consumer takes home a product with better presentation, without the accumulated liquid at the bottom of the packaging.
Of what are made these pillows
This is not a simple role. The material used is cellulose combined with specific polymers, capable of absorbing significant amounts of fluid. They are produced to be in contact with food and have been tested for this purpose.
Its drawing has been designed so that the meat remains dry for longer, reducing the likelihood of cross contamination in the kitchen. But the Mercado recalls that the function of these pillows ends there.
They were not created to resist high temperatures or to be ingested. And it is precisely at this point that the warning of the chain gains the most important.
What happens if they are cooked
In case of distraction, it may happen that the cushion will stop in the oven or frying pan along with the meat. This situation should not be viewed as harmless.
Heat can cause the liberation of substances that are not suitable for human consumption, altering the safety of the meal. Mercado advises to immediately discard any dish where the cushion has been accidentally cooked.
Although not considered toxic by itself, it was not designed for this use. Therefore, the recommendation is clear: if it is cooked by mistake, meat should not be consumed.
Tips for freeze and preserving
The supermarket chain also took the opportunity to reinforce some good conservation practices. One is that the meat can be frozen on the tray itself, but the ideal is to transfer it to proper packaging.
Sticking paper, freezing bags or airtight boxes are preferable options because they help preserve food texture and prevent the formation of ice crystals.
Another essential rule is always to respect the expiration date indicated on the packaging and, after defrosting meat, consume it within 24 hours.
Security above all
The message is simple: the absorbent pillows are safe and fulfill their function, but should be used only in the right context. Other than that, they can become unnecessary risk.
For consumers, the message serves as a reminder that not everything that follows a food is harmless in all circumstances. In the case of packed meat, simply remove the pillow before making and thus ensure a safe meal.
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