Glass jars have been used for many years to successfully store dried foods. The oxygen absorber packets work well in glass bottles, because glass is an excellent gas barrier. When storing in glass, make sure the bottles are protected from breaking in case of an earthquake or other natural disaster.

Getting Ready

• Set up the canning area with jars, new lids, labels, and product.
• Inspect jars to make certain they are clean and dry. Inspect jar rims for nicks or cracks. Discard cracked and nicked jars.

Filling Jars

• Use a scoop to fill jars.
• To control dust, be careful when emptying bags and scooping product.
• Fill jars to within ¼ inch of the top.

Using Oxygen Absorber Packets

• Oxygen absorber packets have a limited shelf life in open air. Packets should not be exposed to air for more than four hours prior to sealing jars.
• Before opening the bag, check the indicator tablet on the side of the bag. If the tablet is blue, reseal the bag with the clamp and hold for 24 hours. If the tablet is still blue after 24 hours, discard the packets.
• 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 in the plastic bag.
• After removing packets, reseal the bag by pressing out the air and fastening the clamp above the indicator tablet.
• Place one packet on the top of the product in each jar. Do not puncture or open packets. Use packets on 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 eat contents of packets.

Sealing Jars

• Wipe off jar rim with a clean, dry cloth.
• Place lids on jars, and seal firmly.

Labeling Jars

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

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.