Why market vendors often cover pork with cloth

Covering pork with a clean cloth at traditional markets offers many benefits for both sellers and buyers. Below are some of the main reasons:

Keeping the meat fresh

The primary reason meat vendors cover pork with a clean cloth is to protect it from dust and insects. In traditional markets, selling areas are often not well sanitized, and the air contains a lot of dust and bacteria. If meat is directly exposed to these elements, its quality can deteriorate quickly, making it more prone to bacterial contamination and spoilage.

By simply covering the pork with a clean piece of cloth, vendors create a protective barrier between the meat and the surrounding air. This also helps prevent insects from landing on the meat and reduces the risk of dust and bacteria in the environment coming into contact with it. As a result, the meat stays fresher, cleaner, and more hygienic.

Reducing exposure to sunlight and high temperatures

Sunlight and high temperatures are major factors that cause meat to spoil rapidly. Prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight accelerates the loss of freshness, encourages the growth of harmful bacteria, alters the smell and taste, and reduces the nutritional value of the meat.

Covering the meat with cloth helps limit the effects of direct sunlight. The cloth acts as a protective layer that lowers the surface temperature of the meat, helping it remain fresh for a longer time in outdoor market conditions.

Maintaining moisture in the meat

Another reason vendors cover pork with clean cloth is to prevent it from drying out. When pork is exposed to air for long periods, its surface gradually dries due to moisture loss. This not only reduces its nutritional value but also affects its appearance and diminishes its natural tenderness and freshness.

The cloth helps slow down evaporation, keeping the meat moist, soft, and fresh. Maintaining moisture also makes the meat look more appealing, which helps attract customers and increases the likelihood of purchase.

Creating a sense of hygiene for buyers

When buying meat, customers are highly concerned about food safety and hygiene. Pork that is covered with a clean cloth gives buyers greater peace of mind. It shows that the vendor takes food preservation and hygiene seriously, which builds trust and creates a positive impression. As a result, customers are more likely to feel comfortable purchasing meat from that stall.

Important notes when covering pork with cloth

Although covering pork with cloth provides many benefits, not all types of cloth are suitable.

Vendors should ensure that the cloth used is clean and washed regularly to avoid contaminating the meat. If the cloth is not properly cleaned, it can have the opposite effect and become a source of bacterial contamination.

In addition, the cloth should have good absorbency to prevent excess moisture from forming on the meat, which could cause unpleasant odors. Cloth that is too thick or too thin may also reduce its protective effectiveness, so choosing the right type of fabric is essential for optimal results.