- SAFEMEAT24 will develop natural additives that stabilize cooked meat products at room temperature, eliminating the need for refrigeration
- It will propose a method that combines technological innovation and sustainability
- CHEMITAL is developing this project, in collaboration with AINIA and with financial support from CDTI Innovación and EU FEDER funds
May 23, 2025 – Development work has already begun on SAFEMEAT24, an R&D project addressing one of the biggest challenges in the food industry: the stability and safety of cooked meat products stored at room temperature. Under the title ‘New natural antimicrobials in cooked meat products stored at room temperature,’ the initiative aims to eliminate the need for refrigeration by using natural additives that combine technological innovation and sustainability.
Project challenges
Currently, preserving cooked meat products is a challenge in demanding markets, where existing thermal treatments do not fully eliminate resistant microorganisms like bacterial endospores. SAFEMEAT24 aims to develop effective natural additives that inhibit bacterial spore germination while maintaining the sensory and organoleptic quality of the food.
A novel approach
The project also presents a completely new approach by proposing a preservation method that combines bio-based active ingredients (extracts and essential oils) with optimized thermal treatments. This approach will not only improve food safety but also reduce the carbon footprint by lowering the dependence on refrigeration and energy-intensive treatments.
Research activities
Three main research activities have been established to guide the project. The first focuses on researching and developing natural antimicrobial formulations.
The second will validate the combined effect of additives and thermal treatments, as well as the formulation doses. Finally, the third activity will develop a decision-making tool to help adjust doses and conditions depending on the meat matrix.
Expected impact
The project will contribute to more sustainable production by improving product shelf life and reducing food waste. In addition, SAFEMEAT24 aims to promote a safer and more sustainable food industry that meets modern consumer expectations.
CHEMITAL is developing this project with the collaboration of AINIA, a research center recognized for its expertise in agri-food innovation. With a budget of €595,020, co-financed by CDTI Innovación with EU FEDER funds, SAFEMEAT24 has an estimated duration of 24 months.
About SAFEMEAT24
SAFEMEAT24 is an R&D project aimed at developing natural-based additives that inhibit spore germination in cooked meat products stored at room temperature. The goal is to achieve product stability without refrigeration, ensuring safety throughout the room-temperature distribution process.
CHEMITAL is leading this R&D project in collaboration with the AINIA research center. The initiative is expected to run for 24 months, divided into two technical and economic milestones over the 2024–2026 period, with a total budget of €595,020, co-financed by CDTI Innovación with EU FEDER funds.
