Self-heating pack is a convenient way to provide heat therapy without the need for an external heat source, by using an exothermic chemical reaction, which is a reaction that releases heat. Do you know how do self-heating packs work?
The ability to heat food without an external heat source or power source, usually using exothermic chemical reactions. Bags can also be self-cooled. These packages are useful during military operations, natural disasters, or when traditional cooking is not available. They are commonly used in military field rations, camping food, ready-to-eat meals, or other types of food to prepare in situations where proper cooking facilities or methods are not available or are less than ideal.
A self-heating food packs consists of two main parts:
1.Heating packet: This is where the magic happens! The inner packet contains a mixture of dry chemicals that react when exposed to water, releasing heat. Common ingredients include:
- Quicklime (calcium oxide):This is the main heat source. When it reacts with water, it generates calcium hydroxide and a significant amount of heat.
- Metal powders (iron, aluminum):These act as accelerators, reacting with the quicklime to further increase heat output.
- Other materials (charcoal powder, activated carbon, salt):These play supporting roles, influencing factors like reaction speed, stability, and heat retention.
2.Outer pouch: This surrounds the heating packet and is made from materials that:
- Inner layer (typically):Self heating Bag Non-woven Fabric. This is breathable and absorbent, allowing water to reach the heating packet and soaking up any released liquids.
- Outer layer (typically):OPP film (oriented polypropylene film). This is a clear plastic film with good water resistance, oil resistance, and some chemical resistance. It prevents leaks and helps trap heat inside.
When the pack is opened, the air comes into contact with the chemicals and triggers the exothermic reaction. The reaction causes the pack to heat up, providing relief for pain and stiffness.
Most food heating packages are quicklime aluminum type. When placed in water, chemicals react to release heat, causing the water to reach boiling point and produce steam in a short time. The food can then be heated on top.
The packaging is designed in such a way that hot water sits under the food tray, evaporating it. Thanks to convenient packaging, self-heating technologies and products have upgraded and expanded the ready-to-eat food category in China
Here are the steps on how it to works:
- Open the pack and remove the contents.
- Place the contents in a resealable bag or container.
- Add water to the bag or container, following the instructions on the package.
- Seal the bag or container and knead it to mix the contents.
- The pack will begin to heat up within a few minutes.
- Apply the pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes.
The benefits of using this include:
- The productare portable and easy to use. And can be used anywhere, at any time.
- Itis an effective way to relieve pain and stiffness.
- Andgenerally it is safe to use. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the package to avoid burns.
Here are some precautions to take when using self-heating packs:
Do not use the bags on broken or irritated skin. The temperature of the heating bag can reach more than 150 ℃, and the of the steam can reach 200 ℃.
If there is a clear white foam and lime water flowing into the food, it is better to discard the food, as there may be a large number of alkaline substances that have not completed the reaction, which will irritate or burn the digestive tract.
- Doesn’tfor more than 20 minutes at a time.
- Notuse self-heating packs while sleeping.
And it also could be a safe and effective way to relieve pain and stiffness. They are a convenient option for people who are looking for portable and easy to use thermal therapy solutions.
The technical has driven significant rapid growth in the instant food category in recent years, as it enables food service dishes such as hot pot and rice/noodles to be available through retailers in packaged, shelf-resistant forms. Sales have further risen as Chinese consumers seek higher convenience and taste experiences in food services. Given the aversion of many Chinese consumers to frozen food and drinks, the self-heating form has the potential to enter more categories, such as snacks, beverages and even dairy products.
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