How to Reseal Unused Oxygen Absorbers for Reuse After Opening
Before oxygen absorbers, preserving food, medicines, grains, etc., was difficult. Traditional methods like salting, smoking, refrigeration, and vacuum sealing helped but couldn't fully prevent spoilage.
Despite time-consuming efforts, food still turns rancid, loses nutrients, and grows microbes. Industries face metal corrosion, pharmaceutical degradation, and packaging discoloration, leading to product loss and inefficiencies across multiple sectors.
The introduction of oxygen absorbers revolutionized preservation. These tiny yet powerful packets are made of iron powder, activated carbon and salt. Pharmaceuticals retain potency, and delicate teams are protected from damage, all this with low-cost production and high-quality outputs.
But just like two sides of a coin, the disadvantage of these oxygen absorbers is that they come in a sealed pack. The absorbers are packed and heat-sealed immediately after production. If not done so, they get exposed to air, and they start actively absorbing oxygen from the outer atmosphere.
So if you only require two oxygen absorbers, does that mean the remaining one will go in vain?
Well, no, in this blog we will share effective ways to reseal unused oxygen absorbers for reuse after opening.
Why Do Oxygen Absorbers Need Proper Resealing After Opening Once?
Oxygen absorbers contain iron powder that reacts with oxygen in the air, creating iron oxide and effectively removing oxygen from sealed packaging. The moment they are exposed to air, this reaction begins.
If left open, they quickly become saturated and lose their ability to function.
Most people don't need to use all the oxygen absorbers included in the sealed packaging.
The effectiveness of any remaining absorbers depends on how they are stored after the seal is opened. If they are not resealed properly, there can be wastage, as the oxygen absorbers will quickly lose their effectiveness.
In the first few minutes after opening, they may still work, but after 2 to 4 hours of exposure, the absorbers become fully saturated.
Effective Methods to Reseal Unused Oxygen Absorbers for Reuse
Now you understand why it is so crucial to reseal unused oxygen absorbers right away, and if you fail to do so, then be prepared for loss. Here are some methods to help reseal unused oxygen absorbers for reuse after opening.
1.Vacuum Sealing (Best Method)
Vacuum sealing is a method of removing air from a bag or a container, to create an airtight seal. It is one of the most effective methods in reducing waste. With this method, we can effectively vacuum and seal unused oxygen absorbers for reuse.
Here is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to vacuum seal these absorbers for reuse.
Gather the following things:
- Vacuum sealer machine
- Desiccant packets
Follow the steps—
1. Be as quick as possible, by now, you should know that as soon as you open the seal-packed bag full of oxygen absorbers, they start working. You need to have the aforementioned items ready.
2. Once you open the sealed bag, take out the unused ones and place it inside the vacuum-sealable bag.
3. To seal the bag, insert the open end into the vacuum sealer, select the appropriate setting (dry mode), and activate the vacuum function to remove all air from the bag.
4. Storage: Place the bag in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain its effectiveness.
2. Mylar Bags + Hair Straightener
Mylar bags are the second-best option; they are strong, airtight, and resistant to light, moisture, and oxygen. They can also be used for the packaging of food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cleaning supplies, pet products, and much more.
Gather the following things:
- Mylar bags
- Unused oxygen absorbers
- Hair straightener
Follow the steps—
1. Open the sealed pack of oxygen absorbers and plan to complete the process within 10 minutes.
2. Place the unused oxygen absorbers into a Mylar bag. If you have only a few absorbers, choose a smaller bag; avoid using a large one if you have fewer absorbers.
3. With both hands, press the bag to flatten it as much as possible.
4. Heat your straightener by setting the temperature to medium-high (around 300°F or 190°C).
5. Press down firmly for a few seconds until the bag is sealed shut.
3. Resealing the Original Packaging
Resealing the original packaging is not the most ideal method, but it is possible to reseal unused absorbers in their original packaging. Make sure there are no holes, even tiny ones, in the bag, as even a small opening can allow air to enter and reduce the effectiveness of the absorbers.
If you have a vacuum sealer, use it to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
If not, preheat your heat-sealing device to about 300°F (190°C) before sealing.
Gather the following things:
- Original packaging
- Heat-sealing
Follow the steps—
- Run the heat-sealing device along the opening where the package was cut.
- Do not stay in one spot for too long. A quick, even motion will heat the material just enough to fuse it without causing burns or creating weak spots.
- After sealing, gently run your finger over the seam to ensure it is smooth and continuous.
Using the proper sealing techniques is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of oxygen absorbers and reducing waste. Furthermore, resealing correctly can extend their usability and provide complete protection against oxygen, light, and air. The above mentioned are few proven steps that can make the preservation of oxygen absorbers more efficient and cost-effective.
