Abstract: The invention relates to a method and product for packaging perishable food. The method comprises washing the perishable food with ozonated water and thereafter storing the perishable food in a case-ready package. The case-ready package comprises a tray, a liquid absorbent pad disposed in the tray for absorbing liquid, a food grade carbon dioxide generator disposed in the tray, and a cover for sealing the liquid absorbent pad, the food grade carbon dioxide generator, and the perishable food in the tray. The liquid absorbent pad absorbs liquid carried by or discharged from the perishable food and the food grade carbon dioxide generator persistently emits carbon dioxide in the package thereby retarding the growth of bacteria in the package and the spoilage of food, extending the shelf life of the package of perishable food.