Kawasaki Air Filter?

[fcremc]

I just opened these filters (KAW 11013-7038 ELEMENT-AIR FILTER ) & I noticed a loose white powder where the filter mounts to the motor. Please tell me if this is supposed to be there & what purpose it serves?

My ride is a Scag Cheetah. It has a 31 HP Kawasaki & a 61" deck.

[damnfingers]

If there's a rubber gasket on the filter it's probably a type of powder to keep the rubber from sticking to the housing on the engine....or maybe not.

[fcremc]

This morning I learned that this powder is from manufacturing & is to keep them from sticking. The thing I can't get a answer on is why so much & is it harmful to the engine?