Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: MarianaM on 03/09/2019 11:50:20

Title: Can we use oxygen absorbers to keep food fresh for longer?
Post by: MarianaM on 03/09/2019 11:50:20

Sandy is asking...

Many items including foods often come with a small sachet labelled deoxidizer or absorber.
I assume they help preserve the freshness of the products. I have placed them with leather goods to keep them from going mouldy, but how safe are they to be used to keep fresh food items for longer?

Can you help?

Title: Re: Can we use oxygen absorbers to keep food fresh for longer?
Post by: Janus on 03/09/2019 16:34:52

Such deoxidizers are good for preserving food that has been dehydrated, but should never be used for any food that has more than a 10% fluid content.   There are anaerobic bacteria such as botulism that thrive in moist, oxygen free environments. 
Removing the oxygen risks growth of these bacteria.  This is why in home canning is it so important to sterilize your jars and lids, and heat the food you are canning to a high temp in order to kill off these bugs before canning. (and afterwards, if you ever come across a jar with a bulging lid, toss it.)

Title: Re: Can we use oxygen absorbers to keep food fresh for longer?
Post by: Elemental on 12/09/2019 08:56:44

I am very interested in this matter. But still did not get into something