Oxygen Absorbers remove oxygen from sealed containers. In the context of food storage we’d typically be speaking rice, wheat and grains, but Oxygen Absorbers could also be used for legumes, pasta and many other products. Taking the air from the storage container stops oxidation and extends shelf life. Eliminating the oxygen prevents insects which could be from the food when it is sealed.
Pages of information Could be written on the details below including chemical formulations, the physics of air absorption as well as the properties of wheat, rice etc. It would take an entire book to include all of the charts and graphs required to present a comprehensive explanation of amounts, storage times and the properties of both the food to be saved as well as the containers used. You get the picture that is a primer, a beginner’s basic manual so to speak. I hope you are keeping food and rotating food and that you are self sufficient for 2-3 decades. In addition, I hope none of us ever want long-term storage.
With all that I Present here a simple primer on oxygen absorber packet, their benefits and drawbacks. Here are the principles of everything you will need to know about Oxygen Absorbers.
- Absorbers are Non-toxic and food secure. Ingredients: calcium and iron.
- Two 500cc absorbers Are enough for a 5-6 gallon bucket.
- Dense food needs Fewer absorbers because there is less atmosphere to eliminate.
- Altitude affects air density. It is possible to use fewer absorbers than if you live at sea level. Do not skimp.
- when You open the Bag of absorbers they become active, use them as promptly as possible.
- A 500cc pkt. will Consume 500 cc of oxygen out of a container.
- They are single-use, And cannot be reused.
- Oxygen absorbers come in airtight sealed bags. As soon as you open the bag they start absorbing oxygen from the air. They contain enough active ingredients to be open for 30-45 minutes prior to sealing on your containers. So it is important to get your containers filled and prepared for lids before you start the package.
- If you are not using All the absorbers and need to save the remainder a later packing undertaking, re-seal them in an airtight bag by means of a vacuum sealing system.
- You can put the absorbers anywhere in the bucket. I put mine on top so that I do not lose track of that containers I place them in.
- When using oxygen Absorbers in plastic sheeting, use standard hammer-on lids. Gamma Lids are airtight, but not designed to counteract the pressure generated when the oxygen in the container is removed.
- After the standard Lid is removed to use the contents, a Gamma Lid can be used to re-seal the bucket against moisture, insects and rodents. A hammer-on lid will offer an oxygen barrier for a few years’ of storage.
- For long-term Storage, you may use Mylar liner bags within your bucket. When heat-sealed they will block oxygen permeation for ages.
- Absorbers in their First sealed bag have a shelf life of approximately 1 year.
A detailed discussion Of storage times, product container and density properties will need to wait.