Antioxidants are often added to fresh and processed meat and meat products to prevent lipid oxidation (decomposition), stop the development of off-flavors, and improve color stability. Recently food manufacturers have moved towards using natural antioxidants such as plant extracts, herbs, spices and essential oils, instead of synthetic ones in order to meet consumer demand for more natural products. 

In a new review article in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, published by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), authors from authors from Punjab Agricultural University in India looked at numerous studies to identify 27 natural ingredients that can be used as antioxidants in meat and meat products.

Following is a chart that shows 10 of the more well-known natural ingredients and the type of meat they can be used to preserve.

Natural Ingredient; Meat/Meat Products

Mustard Leaf Kimchi Extract; Refrigerated Raw Ground Pork Meat

Oregano Essential Oils; Raw and Cooked Cow Meat

Sage Essential Oils; Raw and Cooked Cow Meat

Curry; Raw and Cooked Cow Meat

Carrot Juice; Irradiated Beef Sausage

Pomegranate Juice Extract; Cooked Chicken Patties

Kimichi Extracts; Cooked Ground Pork

Grape Antioxidant Fiber; Raw and Cooked Chicken Burger

Green Tea Extract; Dry Spicy Sausage

Oregano Extract; Irradiated Beef Burgers

See the complete chart and read the article in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety here. Source: Institute of Food Technologists