Use of a controlled chlorine dioxide (ClO2) release system in combination with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to control the growth of pathogens

Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes are major bacterial pathogens associated with poultry products. A controlled released ClO2 sachet applied with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) was evaluated for its ability to control the growth of S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes on raw chicken breast during refrigerated storage. The fresh chicken samples were inoculated with one or the other of the pathogens at 104 cfu/g, and the packages (with and without ClO2 sachet) were flushed with ambient air or 30% CO2/70% N2 before sealing, and then stored at 4C for up to 21 days. The maximum reduction in MAP plus ClO2 (compared with MAP alone) was 0.68 log cfu/g for S. Typhimurium and 1.87 log cfu/g for L. monocytogenes. Color and pH changes of the chicken breast were observed at 8 µg/h of ClO2 during the storage period. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS We think that the results of the study with the combined treatment of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) and modified atmosphere packaging may enhance the effectiveness of antimicrobials, reduce the amount of agent needed, and decrease the risk of off-flavors. The applications of the results will be useful for poultry industry to give the significant improvement in shelf life for packaged fresh products.