Are you a bacon lover who’s curious about the term “gas flushed” that you’ve been seeing on some bacon packaging?
Or maybe you’re a food industry professional looking to learn more about this process.
Either way, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore what gas flushed bacon is, how it’s made, and why it’s become a popular method for preserving bacon.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this fascinating process that’s changing the way we enjoy our favorite breakfast food.
What Is Gas Flushed Bacon?
Gas flushed bacon is a type of bacon that has undergone a process called modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). This process involves injecting an inert gas, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, into the packaging of the bacon to remove oxygen and create a modified atmosphere.
The modified atmosphere helps to preserve the bacon by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage. This means that gas flushed bacon has a longer shelf life than traditional bacon.
The Process Of Making Gas Flushed Bacon
The process of making gas flushed bacon begins with selecting high-quality pork belly. The pork belly is then cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and other seasonings to give it its characteristic flavor. After curing, the bacon is smoked to further enhance its flavor.
Once the bacon has been cured and smoked, it is ready for packaging. The packaging process involves placing the bacon in a pouch or tray and then injecting an inert gas into the package. This gas is typically nitrogen or carbon dioxide, which helps to remove oxygen from the package and create a modified atmosphere.
The modified atmosphere helps to preserve the bacon by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage. This means that gas flushed bacon has a longer shelf life than traditional bacon.
After the packaging process is complete, the gas flushed bacon is ready for distribution to supermarkets and other retailers. Consumers can then purchase the bacon and enjoy it at home, knowing that it has been preserved using a safe and effective method.
Benefits Of Gas Flushed Bacon
Gas flushed bacon offers several benefits over traditional bacon. Firstly, the modified atmosphere created by the gas flushing process helps to maintain the quality and freshness of the bacon for a longer period of time. This means that gas flushed bacon has a longer shelf life than traditional bacon, reducing food waste and making it more cost-effective for both producers and consumers.
Secondly, the gas used in the process does not react with the bacon, meaning that the flavor and texture of the bacon are not affected. This results in a product that tastes just as good as traditional bacon, but with the added benefit of a longer shelf life.
Finally, gas flushed bacon is safer to consume than traditional bacon because the modified atmosphere created by the gas flushing process inhibits bacterial growth. This means that there is a reduced risk of foodborne illness from consuming gas flushed bacon compared to traditional bacon.
Gas Flushed Bacon Vs. Traditional Bacon
Gas flushed bacon and traditional bacon differ in terms of their packaging and preservation methods. Traditional bacon is typically packaged in a vacuum-sealed plastic wrap, while gas flushed bacon is packaged in a modified atmosphere that removes oxygen and replaces it with an inert gas.
One of the main benefits of gas flushed bacon is its extended shelf life. By removing oxygen from the packaging, the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage is inhibited. This means that gas flushed bacon can last longer in the refrigerator or freezer than traditional bacon.
Gas flushed bacon also allows for more flexibility in portion sizes. Because the packaging is designed to allow for the use of one or many slices at a time, consumers can easily take out only the amount of bacon they need without having to open an entire package.
However, some people may prefer the taste and texture of traditional bacon, which is often thicker and more substantial than gas flushed bacon. Additionally, traditional bacon may be more widely available in grocery stores and restaurants.
How To Cook And Enjoy Gas Flushed Bacon
Cooking gas flushed bacon is similar to cooking traditional bacon. However, it is important to note that gas flushed bacon should be cooked to a temperature of at least 65°C to ensure that any potential pathogens on the meat are killed.
To cook gas flushed bacon, start by preheating a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the bacon and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Alternatively, you can also cook gas flushed bacon in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Gas flushed bacon can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as in a classic breakfast sandwich or as a topping for burgers and salads. Its longer shelf life also makes it a great option for meal prep and batch cooking.
