Oxygen Absorbers FAQ

What are O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers?

O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers, commonly called oxygen scavengers, are chemical mixtures kept in packets or sachets. They help to extend product shelf life and maintain product safety.

What are oxygen absorbers made of?

The components of oxygen absorbers greatly varies, but O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers are composed of the active ingredient, iron powder. The chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen is introduced creates an oxidized compound, which removes the free-forms of oxygen molecules from the surrounding environment. Sodium is added as an activator, and activated carbon is the neutralizer. 

How do oxygen absorbers work?

After removing your O₂Out Oxygen Absorber from its protective outer package, the moisture in the air begins to interact with the iron powder inside of the oxygen absorber sachet. This interaction creates rust. Typically, at least 65% relative humidity in the surrounding environment is required before the rusting process can begin. To expedite this process, sodium is typically added to the mixture, which causes the iron powder to react, even in lower levels of humidity. The creation of iron oxide through this process allows for the dramatic reduction of oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere. Activated carbon allows gases to pass through and remove impurities, contaminants, and odors.

Is O₂Out toxic?

O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers sachets are completely safe. While they are not edible, they are non-toxic. 

Does the O₂Out sachet emit any gas inside of the food package?

No harmful gases are emitted from theO₂Out sachet. The emission of CO2 intentionally allows the neutralization of odors and impurities, but this process will not alter the smell of the taste of the product they are packaged with. 

Why use O₂Out?

Oxygen supports the growth of aerobic microorganisms like mold and fungi. Food may become oxidized, causing color change or a loss of freshness and taste. Oxygen absorbers allow food to keep these qualities for a longer period of time. Oxygen absorbers can reduce the chance the of food poisoning. They can also be used with non-food items! Historical documents, art, and other precious artifacts can be harmed by the presence of oxygen, leading to rapid deterioration, mildew, mold, and other contaminants. When properly used, oxygen absorbers can reduce the oxygen level in the surrounding environment to approximately 0.01%.

Are O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers approved by the FDA for food application?

O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers are in compliance with FDA and EU related regulations.

Can O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers be exposed to open air before application?

You should avoid exposing O₂Out sachets to open air for an extended period of time. When the bag holding the oxygen absorbers is opened, the iron powder in the sachets will start the chemical reaction with the oxygen in the air and form an iron oxide in the packet, exhausting its oxygen absorption capacity. Generally, it is recommended that oxygen absorbers are applied within 30 minutes after the holding bag is opened.

How do you handle sachets after the holding package has been opened? 

Absorber packets are vacuum sealed inside of a holding bag. If the holding bag loses its vacuum sealing, the packets can possibly move around. If you shake the bag and the packets move freely around the package, please do not use the packets in this bag. After opening the holding bag, spread out the needed quantity of packets on a tray. Do not expose the packets to the air for more than 30 minutes. The remaining packets should be resealed by vacuum sealer in a new holding bag.

How do you store any unused sachets?

You need to plan your production flow in a way that your sachets would not stay exposed to open air exceeding 30 minutes. If, for whatever reason, you have to stop your process, you need to place the unused sachets inside a high barrier bag or a new FoodVacBags™ vacuum sealer bag, and vacuum seal closed.

How do I use O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers?

1. Select the proper cc sachet needed for the side of the package or container that you are using
2. Simply place one (1) or two (2) oxygen absorbers inside of the container along with the items to be sealed
3. Seal the container completely

What kinds of items can I use  with O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers?

Use O₂Out Oxygen Absorbers to keep these foods and non-food items safe:

• Dried fruits
• Baked goods
• Nuts and seeds
• Jerkies, smoked meats, lunch meats
• Spices
• Candy
• Pet food
• Dry powders- evaporated milk, flour, sugar, grains, oats
• Birdseed
• Pasta
• Coffee/tea
• Cheese and dairy products
• Tobacco
• Books, memoirs, journals, artwork, stamps

What size (cc) oxygen absorbers should I use?

 This chart represents approximate cc sizes and should not be considered the final authority