Testing of Surface Spoilage microganims in Meats by Application of Woolcool ® Packaging

Abstract—Woolcool is an eco–friendly type of packaging, made of 100% pure sheep’s wool, hygienically sealed in recyclable food– grade wrap. Due to its complex physical and chemical composition, wool can also help control humidity and reduce condensation. Given these properties, the potential of wool to be used as packaging liners for the transport of meat is of interest. The present study assessed the microbiological quality of meat packaged and stored at room temperature for 40 h in conventional EPS (expanded polystyrene) boxes and cardboard boxes lined with Woolcool using standard, approved culturing techniques. The findings suggest that the product may have potential market value as packaging liners for transporting meat, and possibly other food products. Further research is needed to allow better generalisation to real-world conditions, and understanding of how these packaging liners could maintain food quality on a larger scale.