Vacuum Packaging or vacuum packing is a method of packaging that removes the air from the package before sealing it. This system can be used to pack solid packs or flexible packs. This method is used to remove oxygen from the container so as to extend shelf life of foods and also to reduce the size of the package to economise storage. The intention of this vacuum environment is to reduce and limit the growth of aerobic bacteria and fungi and also to prevent evaporation of volatile components. It is commonly used for long term storage items such as cheese, coffee, cured meats, cereals and crisps. Vacuum packaging is also used to greatly reduce the size and bulk of non food items such as bedding and clothing. In this instance an everyday household vacuum cleaner can be used to evacuate bags before sealing. Today vacuum packed products use bottles, canisters, plastic bags and jars. Sometimes an inert gas is introduced to the packaged item to help prevent damage to certain goods such as fragile crisps.