Ensuring the freshness and extended shelf life of packaged snacks is a top priority for snack manufacturers. The utilization of nitrogen gas, provided by nitrogen generators, has become one of the easiest and most effective methods to achieve this goal. Nitrogen gas displaces oxygen and moisture, preventing mold, mildew, and other quality issues. Airsurr Gas System offers nitrogen delivery systems that can be seamlessly integrated into food processing and packaging equipment.

The use of nitrogen in snack processing plays a critical role in maintaining product quality. Nitrogen is instrumental in preventing discoloration (due to oxidation), inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and molds, and preserving the taste and texture of snacks. During snack manufacturing and processing, nitrogen is used to purge tubes, pipes, and containers to eliminate any oxygen that could compromise the product's quality. Additionally, nitrogen is employed to flush and fill various snack packaging, including glass jars, bottles, cans, plastic containers, and plastic or cellophane bags. This ensures that the snacks remain in a controlled atmosphere until they are purchased and enjoyed.

One of the most common techniques for preserving snacks is nitrogen flushing. This process involves filling the snack packaging with nitrogen, effectively displacing the oxygen. The package is then hermetically sealed to prevent any nitrogen from escaping. This method significantly extends the shelf life of snacks and also adds a protective cushioning layer, especially crucial for delicate snacks like chips, pretzels, and popcorn.

While vacuum packing is an effective way to increase the shelf life of snacks by removing all the air from the package before sealing it, there is still a potential for a small amount of oxygen to remain in the bag. Nitrogen can be employed to mitigate this issue. In nitrogen vacuum packing, nitrogen is introduced into the package before it is vacuum-sealed, displacing any remaining oxygen. This ensures that the snack is stored in an oxygen-free environment, effectively prolonging its freshness and preventing oxidation. The use of nitrogen in vacuum packing is especially valuable for delicate snacks, as the gas provides a cushion that helps prevent breakage during handling and transportation.