PROCESS FOR VACUUM-PACKAGING FOODSTUFFS IN RIGID CONTAINERS

摘要

A process for packaging foodstuffs in substantially rigid containers (22). Foodstuff to be packaged is placed in the container (22), and a quantity of aqueous liquid in amount sufficient to generate a volume of vapor sufficient to completely displace all other gases from the container (22) when boiled is added. The container (22) is closed but not sealed, permitting communication between the interior and the ambient atmosphere. The container (22) and its contents are warmed, but the temperature is kept low enough so that no cooking of the foodstuffs occurs. The container (22) is then exposed to a low pressure so that the liquid in the container (22) boils, generating vapor sufficient to drive out and displace other gases from the container (22). The container (22) is then hermetically sealed while exposed to the subatmospheric pressure.