Oxygen Absorbers for Food Packaging

Even in sealed packaging, oxygen can silently spoil food, causing mold, discoloration, stale odors, and shortening shelf life. That’s why manufacturers and home packers alike rely on oxygen absorbers for food to keep products fresh, safe, and shelf-stable. At SUPER DRY, our oxygen absorber packets actively eliminate residual oxygen inside packaging, creating a low-oxygen environment that helps lock in flavor, texture, and nutritional value. They're food-safe, clean, and trusted across industries from snacks to supplements.

How Oxygen Absorbers Work?

An oxygen absorber contains iron-based compounds that initiate a chemical reaction when exposed to air. Once sealed inside the package, the packet begins absorbing oxygen and continues until saturation is reached. This reaction lowers the internal oxygen level to below 0.1%, significantly slowing oxidation, mold development, and spoilage. Because the contents remain dry and inert, oxygen absorber packets are ideal for food packaging and do not alter taste, smell, or texture.

Application of Oxygen Absorbers

Oxygen absorbers are used to protect packaged items from oxygen-related damage and deterioration. These oxygen scavenger packets offer targeted protection in sealed environments where air exposure could affect product integrity. Below are some of their most common applications across different industries:
  • Dry Food Products: Common in packaging for grains, beans, pasta, spices, and dehydrated meals to preserve taste, texture, and aroma.
  • Meat and Jerky: Maintains natural color, prevents rancidity, and slows down spoilage in vacuum-packed or sealed meat products.
  • Pet Food and Treats: Extends shelf life while protecting nutrients, fats, and flavors from oxidation inside sealed packaging.
  • Medical and Diagnostic Kits: Protects reagent strips, testing components, and sterile packaging from oxygen exposure during storage and shipping.
  • Nutraceuticals and Supplements: Preserves potency in capsules, powders, and tablets by reducing oxidation and moisture-related breakdown.
  • Electronics and Metal Components: Reduces corrosion risk by limiting oxygen exposure in packaged metal tools, chips, and small assemblies.

SUPER DRY Oxygen Absorber Features

SUPER DRY oxygen absorber packets are engineered for consistent performance and safety across various packaging formats. Each component is built to meet food-grade requirements and strict technical standards.

High Absorption Efficiency

Each packet rapidly removes oxygen from sealed packaging, reducing internal levels to below 0.1%. This significantly slows oxidation and microbial activity, thereby extending shelf life and product stability.

Food-Grade and Non-Toxic

All oxygen absorbers for food are made from certified food-safe materials and are safe for direct use inside primary food packaging. They contain no harmful additives or chemical residues.

Leak-Proof Packaging

Packets feature a multilayer construction that resists tearing and puncturing. The contents remain safely enclosed throughout handling, activation, and transport.

Multiple Sizes Available

SUPER DRY offers oxygen absorber packets in 15cc, 30cc, 50cc, 100cc, and 200cc formats. This allows users to match the absorber size to the specific packaging volume and oxygen exposure levels.

Compact and Easy to Apply

The slim profile allows for flexible placement in jars, pouches, cans, and vacuum-sealed packs. This helps reduce wasted space while improving operational efficiency during packing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oxygen Absorbers

What is the correct way to use oxygen absorber packets?

Place the oxygen absorber packets into the packaging right before sealing. Avoid exposing them to open air for more than a minute or two, as this will reduce their effectiveness.

How long do oxygen absorbers stay effective?

Once activated, oxygen absorbers work within the sealed package for 12 to 48 hours. Their effectiveness depends on the oxygen volume and barrier properties of the packaging.

Can you use more oxygen absorbers than needed?

Yes, using extra oxygen scavenger packets is safe and often beneficial. It can help compensate for any small leaks or extra oxygen introduced during packing.

How do you choose the right size and quantity of oxygen absorbers for food storage?

Choose the cc rating based on the internal volume of the container and the type of food. For example, 100cc oxygen absorbers for food are suitable for up to 1-liter pouches of dry goods.

What foods cannot be stored with oxygen absorbers?

Avoid using oxygen absorber packets with salt, sugar, or very moist products. These materials can cause clumping, chemical interactions, or limit absorber effectiveness.

Are oxygen absorber packets food-safe?

Yes. All SUPER DRY oxygen absorber packets are produced under food-safe conditions and meet international safety standards. They are safe for direct contact with packaged food items.