Kazakh researchers have made a significant advance in food technology by developing a new method that significantly extends the shelf life of chilled poultry meat. Specialists from the Kazakh Research Institute of Processing and Food Industry have created an antimicrobial coating capable of preserving meat freshness for up to 20 days at a temperature of around 0 degrees Celsius. This time is three times longer than standard periods, and no harmful nitrates or nitrites are used in the technology.
The foundation of this innovation consists of natural components — whey and bacteriocin obtained from a hybrid strain of Lactococcus lactis. This "bio-shield" effectively prevents the proliferation of dangerous microorganisms such as salmonella and listeria, while remaining safe for human health. The project fully aligns with the international "Clean Label" trend, which focuses on eliminating toxic chemicals in favor of natural ingredients.
For the meat industry in Kazakhstan, this discovery has strategic significance. According to forecasts by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), by 2030, poultry meat will account for over 40% of the global market, and the ability to supply chilled meat will become an important competitive advantage. Extending the shelf life to 20 days will not only expand export opportunities but also significantly reduce losses from spoilage, increasing the added value of the products.
The research was conducted over three years, from 2023 to 2025. During this period, scientists were able to select the optimal composition of the coating and prove that the meat retains its taste characteristics and appearance even after long transportation. The technology has been successfully tested in production at the SPC "Medeu 55" and is ready for mass implementation. The use of domestic strains and raw materials will reduce dependence on imported preservatives and open up opportunities for deep processing of agricultural products in Kazakhstan. Moreover, this is not the only success of Kazakh scientists: earlier, they presented a line of healthy breakfasts aimed at combating obesity and diabetes.
