The initial pre-package surface pH was still in a favorable range for
microbial growth (see Section 3.3). However, the post-package surface
pH did influence the microbial populations, with a lower surface pH
associated with a lower microbial population. A surface pH on the
meat products in the range of pH 5.4–5.7 can be unfavorable to, and
may inhibit some, spoilage bacteria (Gill, 1986), thus resulting in slower
overall microbial growth rates.