Your family’s food supply is a long-term investment that should be safeguarded. Bulk grains and legumes are commonly sold in sealed bags that can be used within one year. When purchasing for long term food storage containers, it is critical to package foods in safe containers using reliable techniques to avoid insect infestation.
How can I package grains and legumes for long term food storage containers in the most effective way? The process is as follows:
- Start by selecting quality dry food products that are less than 10 percent moisture and low in oil content.
- Pick the right container to suit your personal needs and preferences.
- Select the best treatment method to prevent insect infestation in your chosen container.
This may appear daunting, but it isn’t. These are straightforward concepts that can be easily followed to achieve excellent long term food storage containers outcomes. At the conclusion of this essay, you will be an expert.
What are the best food candidates for long term food storage containers?
The first step in creating a long-term food supply is to find the proper meal. Fresh foods have a shorter shelf life than dry foods since they contain more moisture. Low-oil, low-moisture items are excellent candidates for long-term storage. Storage will cause oils to become rancid. White rice, for example, may be stored for 30 years, but brown rice can barely keep a year.
You may start with a variety of dry foods, such as wheat, Kamut, spelt, corn, white rice, pinto beans, black beans, white beans, kidney beans, split peas.
To be safe and nutritious, food must have a high enough moisture content to prevent it from cracking or breaking. Dehydrated carrots, celery, peppers, onions, and potato flakes are some of the most popular long-term dehydrated foods.
What are the best containers to package grains, legumes, and other dry foods in for long term storage?
It is feasible to utilize a wide range of containers with varying results. In our own storage, we’ve used a variety of solutions. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The ideal container for you will be determined by your specific demands and preferences.
You can purchase food packaged for long term food storage and ready to go.
Cans
Cans are ideal for long-term food storage container preservation of dry (10 percent moisture or less), shelf-stable, and low-oil content items. The contents of the can do not react with the metal container due to a food-grade enamel covering that lines the inside of the can.
Foil Pouches/Mylar Bags
Pouches are made of several layers of laminated food-grade plastic and aluminum. Because the metal is separated by a food-grade plastic wall, metal does not react with food. Make sure the pouches you buy are high-quality and intended to store meal items.
PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) Plastic Bottles
Only clean PETE bottles should be used to store dry foods. Other plastic containers might not provide an adequate moisture or oxygen barrier. On the bottom of the bottle, you’ll see “PETE” or “PET.” Fruit juice and soda pop bottles are excellent long-term storage options. Never use containers that have previously held non-food products.
The bottles must be completely cleaned before being used. Remove the lid’s insert and clean it thoroughly if necessary. To ensure that nothing may grow, I sanitize my bottles with a weak chlorine bleach solution. To be sure they are totally dry, I allow them to air dry for several days.
Glass Jars
Glass jars are ideal for keeping dry goods for both the short and long term. One of the best options for long term food storage containers. In my food storage, I utilize glass jars on a daily basis. I buy bulk quantities of specialty salts, sugars, seeds, and other dry products and store them in glass jars.
We store all of our dried fruits, vegetables, and herbs in glass jars. Some of our expensive canning jars are nice; others were merely repurposed peanut butter, mayonnaise, or spaghetti sauce jars.
Purchase already stored foods
If this seems like a lot, know that there’s an easier route. Investing in long term food supply with Targa can ease comfort and reduce stress. This is one of the best food supplies on the market and can last for years in your pantry!
