Answering Your Top 3 FAQs About Oxygen Absorbents
Oxygen absorbers are commonly added to packaging to reduce or entirely remove the oxygen levels inside. They prevent spoilage due to factors such as mold, and extend shelf life significantly.
As one of the leading suppliers of desiccants and adsorbents in Canada and the United States, we get many questions from our clients about the usage, applications, and handling of our products. In a previous blog post, we answered some frequently asked questions about silica gel—this time around, we’ll answer all your FAQs about oxygen absorbents.
Can oxygen absorbents in food packages be re-used?
Unlike silica gel desiccant or activated alumina, which can be regenerated upon heating, oxygen absorbents cannot be reused. They are designed for one-time use, as the oxygen, once absorbed, can’t be removed from the packet.
When disposing of oxygen absorbent packets at home, they should be treated as non-combustible waste. If large amounts of oxygen absorbents are disposed of, they must be treated as industrial waste.
What should we do when an oxygen absorbent is ingested by mistake?
Oxygen absorbents are non-toxic and non-digestible. They will be naturally excreted if ingested by mistake. That said, the oxygen absorbents should be in a secure packet to avoid spillage or tearing, and the packet must have a ‘do not eat’ sign printed clearly on it.
What are the types and characteristics of oxygen absorbents?
Oxygen absorbents can be divided into two categories:
- Ferrous Type
This type used the properties of iron to absorb oxygen through the oxidation process. This variety absorbs oxygen faster and is more cost-effective. However, it isn’t compatible with metal detectors, which can be a problem during the final checking of products.
- Organic Type
The organic type absorbs oxygen during the decomposition of organic matter. This process is slower but doesn’t interfere with metal detectors making it suitable for international shipping and quality control processes.
Buy High-Grade Oxygen Absorbers
If you’re looking for moisture-free packaging solutions, Sorbead India is the primary supplier for packaging clients around the world. We offer a variety of solutions, including food-grade oxygen absorbers and silica gel desiccant packets. To make an inquiry or receive free samples, call +91-756-768-8877 or send us a message now.
