This looks like a cheaply made seal wad to me

The seal looked to be perfectly vacuumed when I opened it, and the lid wasn't a tight one, so I suspect you're right. But someone else in the thread indicated that this may also be a "feature"? I'm not sure if it's a post hoc rationalisation of shit supply purchase choice or a deliberate design decision or a manufacturing error, but it doesn't matter. I hate it all the same.

Also, thanks for providing me with a proper specific name for these things, and the gift of your experience in all things sealed.