Which of the following statements is true regarding evidence packaging?

Proper sealing is essential to prevent contamination. This principle underlines the integrity and reliability of forensic evidence. When evidence is collected from a crime scene, it must be appropriately packaged so that it remains uncontaminated from potential outside influences, including but not limited to environmental factors, biological contaminants, and additional substances that may alter the evidence. When evidence is improperly sealed, it opens up the possibility for cross-contamination, degradation, or alteration, potentially compromising the case and affecting the outcome of investigations or court proceedings.

Ensuring proper sealing involves using appropriate materials and methods tailored to the type of evidence being collected. This could include tamper-evident seals, airtight containers or bags, and an emphasis on thorough documentation of the evidence collection and packaging processes. In this context, packaging serves as a critical barrier to protect the evidence's integrity until it can be analyzed in the laboratory.

Other statements do not align with best practices in evidence handling. For instance, evidence should be packaged in a specific order to preserve the chain of custody and integrity. Exposure to air can lead to degradation of certain types of evidence, particularly biological samples. While moisture control is important, using plastic materials is often discouraged unless specifically warranted; those materials can trap moisture, which may adversely affect certain