Helium, designated E939 in the food industry, is a noble gas used as protective packaging to preserve the freshness and quality of food products. As one of the lightest and least reactive gases, helium offers unique advantages in protecting food from oxidation and spoilage processes.
Because of its properties, helium is used in very specialized applications in the food industry, especially where precision and delicacy are needed to protect the product.
Properties of Helium
Helium has an exceptionally low chemical reactivity and is completely non-toxic, making it ideal for use in protective food packaging. Its lightweight nature allows it to minimize mechanical damage to delicate food products during transportation and storage.
Applications of Helium
E939 is rarely used due to its high cost and specialized application, but it can be used in the packaging of high-quality food products such as certain fruits, deli meats and in the production of lightweight food foams, where its lightness can be used to create unique textures.
Where to buy Helium?
Helium is available through specialty and industrial gas suppliers, offering various cylinder capacities. Due to its specialized use and high cost, helium is usually purchased on demand by food manufacturers.
Helium and its functions in food
In the food industry, E939 has a niche but important role in protecting delicate food products, where its unique properties can be used to preserve structure and quality. Helium enables food to be produced and packaged in a way that minimizes the risk of spoilage and mechanical damage.
