Which of the following is NOT a method for removing oxygen from packaged foods?

The correct answer is based on the understanding that HMR, or Heat and Eat Meals, does not involve a process specifically aimed at removing oxygen from the packaging. Instead, HMR typically refers to meal preparation methods that allow for the convenience of ready-to-eat meals, which may involve various packaging types, including some that might retain oxygen.

On the other hand, vacuum sealing is a widely recognized method that actively removes air from a package, thereby limiting oxygen exposure. Modified atmosphere packaging involves altering the composition of gases within the package to enhance food preservation and prevent spoilage, often reducing oxygen levels significantly. Gas flushing is a technique where inert gases are introduced into a package to displace oxygen, thereby providing a protective atmosphere for the food.

Understanding the functions and applications of various food packaging technologies is crucial for ensuring food safety and extending shelf life, which is where the other methods thereby clearly align with the goal of reducing oxygen exposure.