Classic Oxygen Absorber

The term “oxygen absorber” was completely new to us. There was another similar little package you could add to your food called a desiccant. However, there are two little packets that do very different things.  Unfortunately, many people don’t realize this. Here is the difference:

·        Oxygen absorbers remove oxygen.

·        Desiccants remove moisture.

What are oxygen absorbers?

·        Oxygen absorbers are harmless little packages of iron powder.  They are non-toxic and BPA-free.

·      Also, they are used to remove oxygen from the air (which is 21% oxygen, with the rest being mostly nitrogen) when packaging dry foods.  So, when you put an oxygen absorber in an airtight container, the oxygen in that container “sticks” to the iron in the oxygen absorber.

What are the actual steps for using these products?

Step1: Prepare your containers

First of all, make sure the containers you plan to use are clean and completely dry.  Also, make sure the lid is nearby so you can quickly seal the container once you add the food and oxygen absorber.

Step2: Prepare your food

Make sure your food is free of any debris (common with beans). Then add it to the containers you’ve decided to store it in, but do not put the lid on yet.

Step3: Set aside a mason jar for oxygen absorbers

Then, oxygen absorbers will begin to soak up oxygen immediately. You will need to work quickly. But one tip that can help is to store any absorbers you aren’t currently using in a tightly sealed mason jar.

Step4: Open your package of oxygen absorbers

Pull out one oxygen absorber and seal the rest in your mason jar.  Add one oxygen absorber to your first container.

Step5: Seal your container