[strath76]

You shouldn't need to remove the seal on the container. The reason that it is suggested to use an ait tight container is to stop moisture entering container, which could then lead to mould. If your seeds have been dried out (If they have been left out for a week they will have dried out) then you wont need to worry about it. I store mine wrapped in paper in a zip lock bag. The paper gives a secondary defence against moisture. I then put the whole lot in the fridge unitl I am ready to sow them. I have just sown some Sarra seeds that are 2 years old and they germinated in about 2-3 weeks.