Dongwon F&B’s nitrogen-flush seaweed packaging cuts 300T of silica gel, extends global shelf life to 12 months

SOUTH KOREA – Dongwon F&B has adopted a nitrogen-flush packaging method for its Yangban roasted seaweed, eliminating approximately 300 tonnes of silica gel packets annually while extending export shelf life from 6 to 12 months as the company targets international growth.

The technique reduces oxygen inside the package and replaces it with nitrogen, which preserves the fresh, crunchy texture of seaweed straight off the roaster by preventing oxidation of the oil used for seasoning. 

The company has sold a cumulative 12 billion sheets of Yangban seaweed since its launch in 1986. 

Export-Focused Packaging Innovation

The shift is aimed largely at overseas markets, where longer shipping times can leave seaweed soggy by the time it reaches customers. 

For export products, Dongwon F&B is combining the nitrogen-flush method with silica gel packets, extending the shelf life from six months to 12 months. 

Yangban seaweed is currently sold in more than 30 countries, including Japan, Thailand and the United States. 

The improved shelf life also reduces food waste during long-distance shipping, enabling more efficient inventory management for distributors and retailers in export markets.

Sustainability and Product History

The company previously eliminated plastic trays from Yangban seaweed packaging in 2020, introducing laser-cut film instead, a change that saves about 30 tonnes of plastic annually.

The nitrogen-flush method also allows the company to maintain the same quality without silica gel packets, reducing about 300 tonnes of silica gel use per year. 

Launched in 1986, Yangban is the top-selling seasoned seaweed brand in Korea and marks its 40th anniversary this year. To mark the anniversary, Dongwon F&B is running a giveaway event through 20 September 2026 for customers who post photos of receipts and products or complete a quiz on Instagram, with prizes including gold and Apple AirPods Pro 3. 

The combined packaging innovations, nitrogen flushing, silica gel elimination and plastic tray removal, demonstrate the company’s commitment to reducing packaging waste while improving product quality for global consumers.

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