can you store dehydrated food in mylar bags

Dehydrated Food Storage: Mylar Bags as a Reliable Solution for Long-Term Preservation

Introduction

In today's fast-paced world, having access to nutritious and convenient food options is essential for many individuals. Dehydrated food has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its long shelf life, lightweight nature, and nutritional value. However, ensuring proper storage of dehydrated food is crucial to maintaining its quality and flavor. Mylar bags have emerged as a reliable solution for long-term preservation, ensuring the longevity of dehydrated food items. This article delves into the benefits and guidelines for using Mylar bags to store dehydrated food.

1. The Advantages of Dehydrated Food

Before discussing the storage methods, it is important to understand why dehydrated food is an attractive option. Here are some key advantages:

- Extended Shelf Life: Dehydrated food has an impressive extended shelf life, making it ideal for emergencies, camping trips, or even everyday use. Properly dehydrated food can last for several years while retaining its nutritional value.

- Nutrient Retention: Dehydrating food preserves essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and nutrient-rich choice. By removing only water content, dehydrated food retains its nutritional profile.

- Lightweight and Portable: Unlike fresh or frozen food, dehydrated food is significantly lighter and more compact, making it easy to carry during outdoor activities or while traveling.

- Versatility: Dehydrated food can be used in a variety of recipes, ranging from soups and stews to granola bars and smoothies. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for both culinary enthusiasts and preppers.

2. The Importance of Proper Storage

While dehydrated food offers several advantages, improper storage can lead to spoilage, loss of flavor, and a decrease in nutritional value. Therefore, implementing suitable storage techniques is vital to maximize the shelf life and quality of dehydrated food.

a) Factors Affecting Food Storage

To understand the significance of Mylar bags as a storage solution, it is essential to explore the factors that affect food storage:

- Oxygen: Oxygen can deteriorate the quality and taste of dehydrated food over time. It accelerates the oxidation process, leading to rancidity and staleness.

- Moisture: Moisture can cause mold growth and spoilage, rendering the dehydrated food inedible.

- Light: Exposure to light, especially sunlight, can degrade the nutritional value of dehydrated food. UV rays break down vitamins and destroy the food's color and taste.

- Temperature: High temperatures can accelerate the degradation process and contribute to the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold.

b) The Role of Mylar Bags in Proper Storage

Mylar bags provide a reliable solution to counter the negative effects of oxygen, moisture, light, and temperature. Let's explore how they address each factor:

- Oxygen Barrier: Mylar bags are composed of a durable polyester film layer and a metallic coating, which acts as an efficient oxygen barrier. It prevents oxygen from entering the bag, effectively reducing the risk of oxidation and food spoilage.

- Moisture Protection: The thick and sturdy nature of Mylar bags ensures that they are highly resistant to moisture. When properly sealed, they create a moisture-proof environment, protecting the dehydrated food from moisture-related issues.

- Light Resistance: The opaque design of Mylar bags prevents light from penetrating, offering protection against harmful UV rays. By eliminating exposure to light, the nutritional value and appearance of dehydrated food are preserved.

- Temperature Regulation: While Mylar bags do not regulate temperature, they provide an additional protective layer against temperature fluctuations. Storing dehydrated food in a cool and dry place, combined with Mylar bags, can significantly extend the food's shelf life.

3. Guidelines for Using Mylar Bags to Store Dehydrated Food

Now that we understand the benefits of Mylar bags, let's dive into some guidelines for using them effectively:

a) Choosing the Right Mylar Bags

When selecting Mylar bags for dehydrated food storage, consider the following factors:

- Size: Ensure that the bags are appropriate for the quantity of food you wish to store. Choosing the right size minimizes the air space and enhances proper vacuum sealing.

- Thickness: Opt for thicker variations of Mylar bags, as they offer better protection against punctures and tears. A thickness of 4-7 mil is generally recommended.

- Sealing Mechanism: Choose Mylar bags with an airtight and reliable sealing mechanism. Heat-sealing is the most common method, as it ensures a tight closure.

b) Preparing the Dehydrated Food

Before storage, ensure that the dehydrated food is properly prepared:

- Dryness: Ensure the food items are thoroughly dehydrated. Any residual moisture can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.

- Contamination: Ensure that the food is clean and free from any contaminants before sealing it in the Mylar bags. Even small traces of foreign substances can compromise the quality and safety of the food.

c) Packing and Sealing

To achieve optimal results, follow these steps for packing and sealing dehydrated food in Mylar bags:

- Portioning: Divide the dehydrated food into suitable portions based on your anticipated usage. Smaller portions minimize the need to open larger bags repeatedly.

- Oxygen Absorbers: Insert oxygen absorbers into each bag to eliminate any residual oxygen. The absorbers help maintain the freshness and quality of the dehydrated food.

- Sealing: Heat-seal the Mylar bags using a vacuum sealing machine or an iron. Aim for a tight seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside the bags.

d) Storage Conditions

Proper storage conditions are crucial for maximizing the shelf life of dehydrated food stored in Mylar bags:

- Temperature: Store the bags in a cool and dry environment with a temperature range between 50°F and 70°F (10°C - 21°C). Avoid areas prone to high temperatures and direct sunlight, such as attics or garages.

- Dark Location: Keep the bags away from light sources to prevent nutrient degradation caused by UV rays.

- Inspection: Periodically inspect the Mylar bags for any signs of damage, such as punctures or leaks. If identified, transfer the food to a new, intact bag to avoid spoilage.

Conclusion

Proper storage of dehydrated food plays a significant role in maintaining its quality and ensuring it remains safe for consumption. Mylar bags serve as a reliable solution for long-term preservation, providing protection against oxygen, moisture, light, and temperature fluctuations. By following the guidelines discussed above, individuals can maximize the shelf life and nutritional value of their dehydrated food items, making them an ideal choice for various situations, including emergencies, camping trips, and everyday consumption.