How is Nitrogen Used in Packaging Chips?

Chips are one of the most convenient snack options in the world. This is mainly because of the convenience it offers and partly because you can eat a delicious meal without learning how to cook. However, to preserve chips’ freshness and prolong shelf life, it needs to go through a rigorous process. Many manufacturers remove oxygen from the container and replace it with nitrogen, which is one way to preserve chips. Read this article to find out how nitrogen keeps chips fresh.

Filling Chips Bags With Nitrogen

Before packaging, the nitrogen is piped into the chips bags. This nitrogen displaces oxygen from the bag and then fills it with chips. If they fail to do this, the chips will have a short shelf life. The oxygen in the bags would make the chips stale and become soggy due to the humidity found in the air.

Chips manufacturing companies use machines to add nitrogen to the chips bag. They buy a nitrogen generator if they need one from top manufacturers. They have experts who can design a generator to meet your needs and specifications. They have enough experience in creating reliable and cost-effective generators.

Why Is Nitrogen Used In Chips Packaging?

Nitrogen gas has unique properties and chemicals that make it suitable for use in chips packaging. Nitrogen is passive, meaning that it will not react with prepared food materials that can alter aromas and flavors. In addition, nitrogen displaces oxygen, effectively minimizing oxidation and growth of microorganisms that make chips spoil faster.

Nitrogen Prevents Oxidation

As you already know, oxygen is a powerful oxidizing agent. Because of this, it causes chips to spoil when it reacts with other compounds like oil. For instance, you may have noticed how an apple turns brown after cutting it, which is a good example of the oxidation process. However, nitrogen does not have similar properties and is safe to use.

Prevents Chips From Breaking

You may have noticed that a bag of chips is filled with air. However, that is not air but nitrogen. Nitrogen gas gives chips caution to prevent them from damage during transit. Otherwise, the chips would reach their final destination as a bag of crumbs.

Prevents Growth of Bacteria

Most microorganisms such as mold, aerobic bacteria, and yeast use oxygen to survive and grow. Availability of oxygen in the chips packaging bag can lead to dangerous bacteria that increase the spoilage rate. However, replacing the oxygen with nitrogen can reduce spoilage. It also fills the space and prevents moisture from getting in, making chips soggy.

Is Nitrogen Safe?

Chips manufacturers use the nitrogen flushing method to preserve and store their chips since it is non-reactive gas. It is non-toxic and non-odorous. Furthermore, it is readily available. After all, it makes 78% of the atmosphere. These things make preserving chips using nitrogen safe and affordable.

The presence of oxygen on chips packaging bags introduces moisture that can affect its quality. However, using nitrogen can increase shelf-life and the freshness of your chips. Nitrogen is safe and widely used in the food industry.