Observations on cellulose film over-wrapping of egg cartons under Queensland conditions

Abstract

The effect of overwrapping cartons of eggs with MSAT300 Cellulose film was investigated with batches of eggs having a range of initial qualities and stored for one and two weeks at room temperature.
No significant differences in weight loss between overwrapped and unwrapped eggs were observed although there was a trend towards decreased weight loss in the overwrapped group.
Highly significant differences in Haugh Unit values favouring the overwrapped group were observed after one and two weeks of storage.
The interpretation of Haugh Unit rating on break-out in terms of South Queensland Egg Marketing Board grade standards showed an even more definite advantage in favour of overwrapped eggs.
The rapid decline in quality of unwrapped eggs held at room temperatures is very obvious, the rate of decline being of the order of 2.5 Haugh Units per day.