LPT 321: Meat Science (1+1)

Types of Egg packages

EGG PACKAGES

• There are many different types of egg packages, which vary both in design and packaging material used.

Grain by-products

• Packing eggs with clean and odourless rice husks, wheat chaff or chopped straw in a firm walled basket or crate greatly decreases the risk of shell damage. It is also be possible to pack eggs in a simple basket.
• The basket has no cushioning material such as straw and therefore damage to the eggs may occur more easily. This kind of packaging may be fit for short distance transport.

Filler Trays

• A very common form of packaging is the filler tray. The fillers are then placed in boxes or cases.
• Filler trays are made of wood pulp moulded to accommodate the eggs. They are constructed so that they can be stacked one on top of the other and can also be placed in boxes ready for transport.
• Filler trays also offer a convenient method for counting the eggs in each box, without having to count every single egg.
• The cases used may be made of sawn wood; however, they are more commonly made of cardboard.
• When using cardboard cases, special care must be taken in stacking so that excessive weight is not placed on a case at the bottom of a stack.
• Fillers can also be made of plastic as seen in.
• The advantages of using plastic egg fillers are that they can be reused and are washable.
• The fillers can be covered with plastic coverings and be used as packages for final sale to the buyer.
• More importantly, however, plastic transparent fillers allow for the inspection of eggs without handling or touching the eggs.

Retail Packages

• Eggs can also be packed in packages that are smaller and specific for retail sale.
• Each package can hold from two to twelve eggs.
• These cases can be made of paperboard or moulded wood pulp , or can be made of plastic.
• It is also possible to pack eggs in small paperboard cases and cover them with plastic film.
• Egg cases have also been developed from polystyrene.
• The advantages of using polystyrene are superior cushioning and protection against odours and moisture.
• The package is also resistant to fungus and mould growth.
• The use of small cases is restricted by availability and cost considerations.
• However, small cases are good for retailers and customers.
• They are easy for the retailers to handle and customers are able to inspect the eggs.

Labelling

• Labels are a source of important information for the wholesaler, retailer and consumer and not just pieces of paper stuck onto cartons or boxes.
• The important facts on the label contain information for buyers concerning the eggs, their size and weight and quality/grade description - AA, A or B.
• Labels may also indicate the producer, when the eggs were laid, how to store them and their expiration date.
• Persuading the buyer to purchase the product without tasting, smelling or touching is another function of labelling.