Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) allows longer shelf life for fresh chicken, but the gas atmospheres used affect chicken welfare at slaughter through the type of stunning employed.
The connection between packaging technology and stunning welfare is often overlooked but significant. Water bath stunning required for conventional processing may produce meat incompatible with certain MAP systems. Controlled atmosphere stunning, which is better for welfare, is compatible with MAP requirements. This technological alignment means that retailers seeking both shelf life and welfare improvements can achieve both simultaneously. The market case for controlled atmosphere stunning is therefore strengthened by packaging compatibility.