Vacuum packing is a food preservation method that removes air from a sealed bag or container to extend the shelf life of food.
Definition of Vacuum Packing
Vacuum packing is a food preservation technique that involves removing air from a sealed bag or container to increase the shelf life of the food by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts and molds that thrive in an oxygen-rich environment.
The History of Vacuum Packing
The Beginning
Though early experiments of modified atmosphere packing have been traced back to the early 19th century, most accounts of vacuum packaging are not acknowledged until after World War II. In France before WW II, the air was removed from rubber latex bags, and the bags were sealed. This concept proved to increase the shelf life of frozen products.
The Rise
The Cryovac packaging process created in the 50s to package whole turkeys was the first commercial use of vacuum packing perishable items. Since the introduction of industrial vac packing, many companies and individuals have contributed new methods, materials, and machines that have improved the quality of human life. By the 70s, the idea of introducing an inert gas into vacuum packaging helped to increase the shelf life of perishable products dramatically.
Advancements
Since then, the advancements in vacuum packing efficiency and increased shelf life have made incredible advancements. The technology has continued to improve and evolve, with new materials and equipment being developed to make vacuum packaging even more effective. Vacuum packing has now become an essential tool for food preservation, and its widespread use has made it possible for people to enjoy a wider variety of food products, while reducing waste and increasing the shelf life of food. Vacuum packaging has also been adopted in various industries, such as medical, industrial, and even retail, to preserve and protect a range of products.
8 Advantages of Vacuum Packaging You Need to Know!
Vacuum packaging is a form of modified atmosphere packaging that removes atmospheric oxygen from the primary package. It is widely used around the world due to its many benefits that help to extend product life and improve product presentation. In this article, we will discuss eight benefits of vacuum packaging that you should know.
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Increased Shelf Life
Studies have shown that vacuum pack products can significantly increase shelf life, anywhere from 50% to 400%. The key to this increased shelf life is determining the ideal atmosphere within the packaging for the product being packaged, which could be through the introduction of an inert gas or the reduction of oxygen to ideal levels. Vacuum sealing is also preferred for many products going into long-term freezer storage as it can reduce freezer burn and protect the product from external elements.
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Reduced Product Loss
The increased shelf life of vacuum-packaged products directly affects the reduction in product loss for companies, ultimately helping to increase their bottom line.
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Sealed Barrier from External Elements
Vacuum packaging provides a sealed barrier from external elements such as dust, moisture, insects, and others that may harm or damage products. The most common vacuum bag thickness is 3 mils, with some bags up to 6-8 mils thick. With the proper seal, vacuum packaging can also protect products from freezer burn during long-term freezer storage.
- Seals in Flavours
Vacuum packaging is ideal for wet aging meats as it can lock in the flavors and spices during the curing process.
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No Chemical Preservatives Required
Vacuum packing eliminates the need for chemical preservatives as the right mixture of oxygen to inert gas can preserve products without the use of commonly used preservatives.
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Improved Product Presentation
Vacuum bags are usually crystal clear, allowing products within the packaging to be displayed on shelves. Vacuum packaging is an affordable packaging solution that enables products to be shelf-ready with the application of a custom-printed sticker.
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Multiple Packaging Options
Vacuum sealing materials come with multiple packaging options, including rolls of film or bags with different features such as reclosable zippers, easy-open tear notches, foil-lined, channeled, and more.
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Quick and Efficient Packaging
Vacuum sealing can be a very efficient process, enabling hundreds or thousands of products to be sealed per hour with the proper machines and materials.
More than Just Clean and Hygienic
- Vacuum packaging not only offers a clean and hygienic method for food packaging, but also helps save space, making it an indispensable option for the industry.
- Optimal Method – Selecting the right packaging method can enhance the efficiency of the product.
- Reliable Packaging Manufacturer – Choosing a trustworthy packaging manufacturer is also crucial.
Vacuum Packaging’s Importance in Today’s Market
Vacuum packaging has come a long way since its early beginnings in the 19th century. Today, it is a widely used and essential form of packaging in various industries, particularly in the food and medical sectors. The benefits of vacuum packaging are numerous and range from extending the shelf life of products to reducing product loss and preserving product flavor.
Advantages of Vacuum Packing for Food Preservation
One of the key advantages of vacuum packaging is the elimination of atmospheric oxygen, which is the primary cause of product degradation. By removing the oxygen, vacuum packaging helps to extend the shelf life of perishable items, reducing product loss and increasing profitability for companies. The vacuum packaging process also creates a sealed barrier that protects products from external elements, dust, moisture, and insects, thereby preserving product freshness and quality.
No Chemical Preservatives
Another important benefit of vacuum packaging is that it does not require chemical preservatives, which is important for consumers who are looking for natural and healthier options. Furthermore, vacuum packaging provides multiple packaging options, from vacuum bags with reclosable zippers to foil-lined bags, which makes it easy for companies to choose the most suitable packaging for their products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vacuum packaging has revolutionized the way products are packaged and stored, and its popularity continues to grow. With its numerous benefits, vacuum packaging is a highly recommended solution for companies looking to extend the shelf life of their products, reduce product loss, and provide their customers with high-quality, fresh, and natural products.