Food Preservation

[kellys_eye]

Last time I was in Bookers I saw a box, out on open shelving (i.e no refrigeration) containing vacuum packed food (lamb shanks actually). These were ready-cooked and meant for reheating and serving - simples.

But, from what I've read, vacuum packaging is only good for a few days without additional measures (such as refrigeration) yet I got the distinct impression these meals were 'good-forever' so to speak.

No, I didn't read the instructions (I will at my next visit) but does anyone have any knowledge of vacuum packing COOKED foods for storage, transportation and re-heating? with a vie to making the contents 'safe' practically indefinitely?

I have an idea that, after vacuum packing, the food is re-heated in boiling water to pasturise the contents - am I on the right line here?

[silver_star]

I have seen the same sort of thing in Costco....lamb shanks vac packed not refrigerated in the isle with tinned foods. I guess it must be the same sort of principal as say the cooked ham you get in tin cans?

[kellys_eye]

To all that may have browsed this subject but gone away 'unsatisfied' - I found the answer.......

[silver_star]

.....Which is?