470663 Tue Dec 18 12:18:06 -0800 2007 6 27 General Chowhounding Topics 0 3219214 I've noticed that the packages of meat at the Trader Joe's I go to in El Cerrito are slightly ballooned. I assume that this means that the meat was packed very cold and then warmed up when it was put into the refrigerator case causing the air in the carton has expand. Do you think this meat is safe to eat. Or does anyone know another explanation? Tue Dec 18 12:18:06 -0800 2007 11702 Curmudgeon 1 3219461 The puffed up packaging might be carbon monoxide or another preservative gas. CM in minute amounts keeps meat pink/fresh looking. Given TJ ships their meat from a far off central location and always looks fresh, it might be CM. Tue Dec 18 13:10:06 -0800 2007 3219214 27275 ML8000 2 3219851 You're basically right, but I think its actually nitrogen. I worked there for over 5 years, but I can't remember exactly what gas they use. Either way, the meat is fresh and safe to eat (unless there are other signs of spoilage). Tue Dec 18 14:51:39 -0800 2007 3219461 25012 chemchef 3 3219892 You're right. I think they "treat" the meat wi/ CM and fill the packages with something safe. Tue Dec 18 15:04:34 -0800 2007 3219851 27275 ML8000 1 3227329 Could it be ozone? Thu Dec 20 21:01:04 -0800 2007 3219214 11992 roxhills 1 3238485 It is nitrogen. Stores have been selling it for at least 10-15 years that way. Flushed with nitrogen and sealed, the shelf life is longer. Wed Dec 26 17:22:06 -0800 2007 3219214 11234 toodie jane 2 3246429 Wow, Chowhound comes through. TJs is so close and yet I have been avoiding their meat till these very logical explanations were posted. Thanks! Sat Dec 29 23:10:48 -0800 2007 3238485 11702 Curmudgeon