Airtight #10 cans with an oxygen absorber packet protect products from moisture, oxygen, insects, and rodents. These cans are easy to handle, move, and store.

Getting Ready

• Supply the canning area with cans, lids, labels, and product.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Remove loose jewelry and empty your shirt pockets.
• Wear a hair net, an apron, and gloves.
• Do not eat or drink in the cannery area.
• Do not work in contact with food if you are sick or have an open sore.

Filling Cans

• Use a scoop to fill cans. Do not use an empty can as a scoop. Can edges are sharp and should be handled carefully.
  To control dust, be careful when emptying bags and scooping product.
• Fill cans to within ¼ inch of top of can.

Using Oxygen Absorber Packets

• Oxygen absorber packets have a limited shelf life in the open air. Packets should not be exposed to air for more than four hours before cans are sealed.
• Open the plastic bag of oxygen absorber packets. If the plastic bag has a clamp, pull the two sides of the clamp apart. If the plastic bag is heat-sealed, locate the notch on the upper left-hand corner of the printed side; then, starting at the notch, tear open the top of the bag (do not cut open).
• Remove from the bag the number of packets to be used within the next 30 minutes, and spread them out on a tray. These exposed packets will now begin to absorb oxygen.
• Do not repeatedly open and close the plastic bag for a few packets at a time. Do not place unused, exposed packets back into the plastic bag.
• After removing the packets, reseal the bag by pressing out the air and fastening the clamp.
• Place one packet on the top of the product in each can. Use packets with all products except sugar.
• Note: Do not leave the plastic bag open to air. Do not refill the tray before using all exposed packets. Do not puncture or open packets. Do not eat contents of packets.

Sealing Cans

• Place lids on cans, and seal cans promptly after filling them.

Labeling Cans

• Write the date on the product-specific “Not for Sale” labels, and place the labels on the cans.

Cleaning Up

• Use a dry towel to wipe off surfaces that have contact with food when changing from one product to another to avoid cross-contamination of products.
• When you have finished, remove all food residue from the processing area by wiping with a dry cloth, sweeping, and vacuuming. Properly dispose of bags and boxes. Leave the area organized and clean.