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28 August 2024

Tobacco Preservation: The Role of Vending Machines

Tobacco is a plant native to the Americas and was used by indigenous peoples for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. In ancient times, tobacco preservation techniques were essential to ensure its quality and effectiveness, both for ritual and medicinal use.

Tobacco preservation relied on well-established techniques such as drying, smoking, storage in sealed containers, and mixing with other substances. Some sailors, for example, mixed tobacco with ash or salt—substances that helped keep it dry and prevent mold growth.

Even today, tobacco preservation is a crucial topic for anyone who appreciates the flavor and aroma of cigarettes. Tobacco is particularly sensitive to environmental conditions, and poor storage can lead to significant deterioration in quality.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of maintaining optimal storage conditions for tobacco, the consequences of poor preservation, and how vending machines—especially AM Distributors—can offer an effective solution.


Consequences of Poor Tobacco Preservation

Poor tobacco preservation can have several negative effects, including:

  • Flavor deterioration: Tobacco stored in suboptimal conditions quickly loses its original taste, making the smoking experience less enjoyable.

  • Loss of aroma: Aroma is one of tobacco’s most valued characteristics, and it can be compromised if not properly stored.

  • Risk of mold and bacteria: Inadequate humidity and temperature levels can encourage the growth of mold and bacteria, making the tobacco unsafe.

  • Organoleptic changes: The texture and appearance of the tobacco may change, making it less appealing.


Ideal Conditions for Tobacco Storage

Temperature Temperature is one of the most important factors in tobacco preservation. Maintaining a consistent temperature is essential to preserve its organoleptic properties.

  • Ideal temperature: Around 15°–20°C (59°–68°F) is considered the optimal range for tobacco storage.

  • Effects of extreme temperatures: Too high a temperature can accelerate deterioration, while too low a temperature can cause moisture crystallization, damaging the product.

Humidity Humidity is another key factor in tobacco preservation. Maintaining the proper humidity level helps preserve freshness and aroma.

  • Ideal humidity: A level of 60–70% is considered ideal to keep tobacco in good condition.

  • Consequences of improper humidity:

    • Too high: May cause mold growth and overly moist tobacco, impairing smokability.

    • Too low: May dry out the tobacco, making it brittle and less aromatic.


Factors Influencing Storage Conditions

Seasonal climate variations Seasonal climate changes can significantly affect tobacco storage conditions. During summer, high temperatures can speed up deterioration, while winter may bring low humidity, drying out the tobacco.

Light exposure Direct sunlight exposure can damage tobacco by degrading its essential components. It is important to store tobacco away from light to preserve its quality.


How AM Vending Machines Can Help

AM vending machines offer innovative solutions for optimal tobacco preservation through their ability to control and regulate environmental conditions.

  • Temperature control: AM vending machines can maintain a constant temperature, automatically adjusting based on environmental needs to ensure ideal storage conditions.

  • Humidity control: Some AM models feature systems to monitor and regulate humidity, preventing mold formation or tobacco drying.

  • Improper storage notifications: AM vending machines provide alerts when storage conditions are not ideal, allowing for timely intervention to resolve issues.

  • Light protection: The machines are designed to shield tobacco from light exposure, helping maintain its organoleptic properties.


Benefits for Consumers

Using vending machines for tobacco storage offers numerous advantages to consumers:

  • Access to fresh, well-preserved tobacco: AM vending machines ensure tobacco is always stored in optimal conditions, preserving freshness and quality.

  • Extended product shelf life: Proper storage extends tobacco’s longevity, allowing consumers to enjoy a high-quality product for longer.

  • Convenience and ease of use: AM vending machines make the purchasing process simple and fast, offering immediate access to fresh products without long queues or complications.


If you too want to ensure proper tobacco preservation at all times, contact us now to get your own AM cigarette vending machine!