Abstract: A container for perishable articles or substances includes a replaceable closure member capable of forming an airtight seal with a body portion of the container. An evacuation valve is provided on the closure member or another accessible part of the container allowing substantially complete evacuation of air trapped therein after closing the container. Means is also provided to relieve the vacuum to facilitate reopening of the container. The invention is applicable to household containers for foodstuffs as well as industrial containers for chemicals, pharmaceuticals and other materials requiring an air-free environment.