Approved Methods and Materials for Final Product Packaging

Approved Packaging Method – The primary concern when considering final product packaging is if it has the ability to create an anaerobic (oxygen free) environment. Although this is desirable for some applications (like canning), it also allows dangerous microbes such as C. botulinum to grow and release its potentially deadly toxin into the product. Anaerobic packaging is only advised for approved jams, jellies, and other dry products (e.g., granola, trail mix).

Purdue University tested the oxygen permeability (the ability of oxygen to pass through the packaging itself) of different forms of packaging.

In general:

• Plastic containers: Most of the common plastic containers were observed to be oxygen permeable.
• Snap top containers: Plastic tops, metal containers, and metalized pouches were found to be oxygen permeable.
• Metal packaging: Needs to be tested before being allowed to ensure that it would not create an anaerobic environment, except for dry goods (e.g., herbs, granola, trail mixes, etc.).
• Glass containers: Must not be heat treated during production due to the likeness of hermetically sealing the containing which will likely create an anaerobic environment conducive to Clostridium botulinum. Jams and jellies are permitted to be stored in heat-treated glass containers.