Potato chips are a familiar favorite for many. We’ve all experienced the disappointment of opening a bag, expecting a generous portion, only to find a scant amount of chips amidst a sea of air. Is this a deceptive tactic employed by manufacturers to make the bags appear fuller and more appealing?
Why Are Snack Bags Half-Filled with Air?
The mystery of the half-filled snack bag
There’s a valid reason for this seemingly deceptive practice, and it’s rooted in science. The air inside these bags is not just any ordinary air; it’s primarily composed of nitrogen gas. Manufacturers inject nitrogen into snack bags because it’s an inert gas that doesn’t react with other molecules and doesn’t support combustion.
This makes nitrogen ideal for preserving the oil content and freshness of the chips. Additionally, nitrogen is colorless and odorless, so it doesn’t alter the flavor or aroma of the chips. It helps maintain the crispness and integrity of the chips, ensuring they remain as delicious as the moment they were packaged.
Nitrogen keeps snacks crisp and fresh
The packaging itself also plays a crucial role. Most chip bags have a metallic lining to protect the contents from light and further ensure freshness. If oxygen were used instead of nitrogen, the chips would quickly become stale and prone to spoilage.
So, the next time you open a bag of chips, remember to enjoy them promptly! The packaging and nitrogen work together to preserve that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
In addition to Oshi’s snack offerings, you can also find a variety of delicious treats at your local stores and supermarkets, as well as through our retail partners.
So, it turns out we haven’t been “duped” after all. The air in the bags serves a purpose, and it’s all thanks to nitrogen, the unsung hero of crisp and tasty snacks. If you can’t finish a bag in one go, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with creative ways to use up those leftovers!