Here are the steps to determine the correct amount of oxygen absorber for food storage:
1,Determine the Volume of the Container: Measure the internal volume of the container you will be using to store the food. This is typically measured in cubic inches (in³) or liters (L). The volume of the container is the most important factor in determining the correct oxygen absorber size.
2,Calculate the Oxygen Content: Assume the sealed container has 21% oxygen by volume, which is the same as normal air. To calculate the total oxygen content in the container, multiply the container volume by 0.21.
For example, a 1 liter (1000 cm³) container would have 210 cm³ of oxygen (1000 cm³ x 0.21 = 210 cm³).
3,Select the Appropriate Oxygen Absorber Size: Oxygen absorbers are rated by the amount of oxygen they can remove, typically in cubic centimeters (cm³). Match the oxygen absorber size to the calculated oxygen content of the container.
For the 1 liter example above, you would need an oxygen absorber rated for at least 210 cm³ of oxygen removal.
Oxygen absorbers come in common sizes like 100 cc, 300 cc, 500 cc, etc. It's best to choose the next size up from your calculated oxygen content.
4,Account for Headspace: Food containers often have some empty headspace at the top. This headspace also contains oxygen that needs to be removed. As a general rule, add 50 cm³ of oxygen absorber capacity for each liter of headspace.
For example, if the 1 liter container has 200 cm³ of headspace, you would add an extra 100 cm³ (200 cm³ / 1 L * 50 cm³/L) to the oxygen absorber size.
5,Adjust for Food Moisture Content: Certain high moisture foods like fresh meat can require up to 20% more oxygen absorber capacity. If you are storing high moisture foods, increase the oxygen absorber size by 20%.
Following these steps will help ensure you select the correct oxygen absorber size to effectively remove the oxygen from your food storage container. This will maximize the shelf life of your stored foods.
