Dry goods are the items from which water has been removed. There are two types of dried food:
- Naturally dried
- Dehydrating
The main culprits to damage these dry goods are air, moisture, light, and insects. There are many reasons for storing these dried foods. Whether you bought them in bulk, or you want to manage your budget.
Whatever the reason may be it’s necessary to store these dry goods effectively and efficiently to maintain their quality and nutritional value.
It is always great to store dry goods in clean and airtight jars. Keep these boxes in cool places and away from light. There are techniques for storing these dry goods for the long term.
What are the 5 guidelines for dry storage?
People often do not pay attention to the storage of dry items. As a result either they get contaminated by moisture or affected by insects. So here are the basic guidelines for dry storage.
Cover your dry food in airtight jars:
You should save your dry fruit items from oxygen and moisture. Because they damage the food. That’s why you use an airtight jar to store your dry food in a cool place. With it, try to store your dry food once you open them.
Seal it tight to ensure no humidity:
Humidity is the enemy of dry food. So you need to ensure that it has been packed in a sealed container. It is also good to keep food in its original packaging. Mylar bags are best for storing dry food for a long time and keep them away from pests, moisture, light, and oxygen.
Date your dry food by labeling it:
When storing dry food, label it. It will later help you to know what is the item inside, when you pack it and what is the best time to use it. Labeling your containers ensures you use items before they expire, reducing waste.
Rotate your dry food on the First in and First out rule:
Always try to use the food items on the rule First In, First Out. This will help you to use older items before new ones. Also, it will ensure the freshness of your dry food.
Keep them cool and dry:
To store dry goods for longer you need to keep them away from heat and moisture.
Containers to store dry food for longer:
There are boxes that you use on a daily basis to keep food items. But to store dry goods for longer it’s great to use:
Airtight containers with locking lids:
It is good to keep and store dry products in airtight jars. These jars are lightweight, strong, and available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Glass jars:
Glass jars are great for storing food items for longer. Their crystal clear appearance makes it easy to look at the food inside without opening the boxes.
Tins:
Metal boxes are also great for storing certain dry goods. They can extend the shelf life of dry food.
Mylar Bags:
Mylar packaging bags or pouches are perfect for storing valuable items. Their multi layer formula helps to keep dry food away from light, moisture, and oxygen. They increase the shelf life of dry items.
Are oxygen absorbers good for storing dry food?
Oxygen absorbers help to keep items dry even on seasonal days when items get spoiled. They create a barrier against moisture and oxygen. They further increase the shelf life of dry foods.
What are the Two Important Rules for Dry Storage?
Use good quality airtight containers:
Light can devalue the quality of dry goods. That’s why you need to store your dry food in airtight containers. Also, ensure that these boxes are clean and dry. Place them in dark places.
Keep pets away:
Pests can damage your dry goods. That’s why to use airtight jars. Also try to use neem, bay leaves, or clove to keep pests away from your dry goods.
Ways to Store Dry Goods in Bulk:
When storing dry food in bulk, follow these tips:
Reusable Containers:
Try to keep products in reusable buckets or containers when storing them in bulk. Before storing dry products, don’t forget to clean and dry your container.
Divide into Smaller Portions:
It becomes difficult to manage large amounts of food. That’s why you should divide it into small portions for easy access. It will also help to store dry goods for longer.
Label and Date:
Whenever you have to store food, always label it. Proper labeling with the name of the item and date of storage will help to maintain proper inventory.
What is the Shelf Life of Dried Foods?
Dried Fruits, Herbs and Lentils:
Natural dry fruits can last from six months to two years with original taste and texture if stored properly.
Dehydrated Fruits and vegetables:
When dehydrated using proper techniques it can last from 6 months to 10 years.
How do you know if dried food is spoiled?
Like any other food, dried goods also get spoiled. Here are certain signs of food spoilage:
Bad odor:
If your dry fruit gives off a smell then discard it.
Expired food:
After the expiry date don’t take the risk of using dry foods.
Mold sign or pets:
If you see mold or pets on your dried goods then don’t use and discard them.
Change of color and texture:
Discard the moist, sticky, or slimy dried food.
Conclusion:
Dry goods are of two types. One is the natural way and another one is by dehydration. If you bought them in bulk or wanted to store them for later use then you need to use proper techniques for food storage. It’s necessary to use clean and dry containers. Use mylar bags and airtight jars to ensure a longer shelf life.
