DRIED MEAT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 76, 26 August 1941, Page 8

DRIED MEAT

NEW ZEALAND SHIPMENTS nil’OK ! ANT EM'Eimn N I London, July 28. A large trial order of dried meat has been placed with the New Zealand Government by the Ministry of Food. If the results are satisfactory, there is every reason to believe that big consignments will be ordered from the Dominion. Success in drying meat would provide a suitable and profitable outlet for the lower qualities of meat Canning is one obvious outlet, but the plant is costly and the product, although it can bo sent, in unrefrigerated space, actually occupies as much space as frozen meat. These facts have resulted in active investigations in England by a New Zealander. They have proved that attractive and palatable food can be produced from low grade types of meat. GREAT SAVING IN SPACE The advantages of using dried meat in wartime are many. From New Zealand’s point of view the main consideration would be the great saving in shipping space. It is estimated that three to four times the weight of dried meat could be shipped in the same space as would be required by ordinary carcase meat. The fact that it can be transported in non-refrigerated space is also important. At present three main processes are being investigated for drying meat. Complicated plant is not required, for the meat can be prepared simply and cheaply. Both beef and mutton have been treated successfully. and the possibilities of drying pork are being examined. Two large-scale demonstrations have already been held in London. and Ministry of Food officials have be-n greatly impressed. Dried meat can be used for straight mince, for sausages, for shepherd's pie, for rissoles and other similar dishes. SUPPLEMENT TO RATION There is no doubt that it would be welcomed by messes in all the forces, by large restaurants, by institutions such as hospitals, and by chain stores. Even the family, now short of fresh meat, would welcome an attractive supplement to its present limited ration. The purpose of the trial order is to ascertain the best methods of shipment and the most economical means of production in New Zealand. Dried meat may be canned or compressed into blocks and packed in wood or fibre board containers, thus saving tinplate. Various methods are being tried out. informed opinion believes that, if this new project is boldly exploited, there is an excellent prospect of establishing a permanent and profitable outlet for New Zealand’s low-grade meat .n the form of a product which is just as nutritious and palatable as fresh meat.