Vacuum Packaging

Packaging in any form is an important part of product processing and preservation and has a direct influence on the system in respect of physical and chemical changes.

Packaging has undergone some innovative product developments to help ensure a safe and more nutritious food supply. One method of packaging that may be used for products such as ready-to-eat products and spices is vacuum packaging, where the product is placed in a plastic or aluminium foil pouch and most of the air is removed. The package around the vacuumed product allows the internal atmosphere to be retained so that the product stays fresh and safe.

The plastic used for vacuum packaging should be carefully chosen, because not all plastics are equally resistant to gas.

Vacuum packaging refers to the technology wherein the product to be packed in placed in a pouch of suitable material and air is drawn from the pack prior to the final sealing. The removal of air eliminates oxygen which affects food in various ways, such as odour, colour, taste and texture and allows for longer storage.

One of the important properties of vacuum packing is the extent to which it is able to resist the passage of gases and vapour.

Vacuum packaged products may still need to be refrigerated as some microorganisms can survive in low oxygen levels. Their growth is slower at lower temperatures.

Vacuum Packaging

Advantages of Vacuum Packaging

A simple solution to packaging goods requiring protection from oxygen.
Positive control of the moisture content of the product.
Inhibits the growth of aerobic spoilage bacteria.
Lower costs than those of rigid containers.
Longer shelf life for goods.
Larger quantities of food can be purchased and kept over a longer period of time and bulk purchases are often cheaper.
Vacuum packaging decreases food waste due to spoilage.
Not only fresh, perishable foods benefit from vacuum packaging, dried foods also keep longer when vacuum packaged.
Vacuum packaging allows more efficient use of time. Food can be prepared in advance without loss of freshness, so slack times are more productive and busy times are more manageable.
Vacuum packaging reduces product shrinkage. There is no moisture loss or evaporation in a sealed vacuum bag. Therefore, the weight you purchase will be the same.