In terms of food storage, durability and preservation are the most essential aspects that need to be considered. When it comes to disaster preparedness and food protection, Mylar bags quickly became a star in the world of food storage. But what makes these bags so special?Welcome to Mylar bags and the guide to proper food storage.
What Are The Best Mylar Bags For Food Storage?
Best mylar bags for food storage which are usually associated with durability and reliability are made from a polyester film known as BoPET or Biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate. This material is highly valued for its barrier properties; particularly moisture, oxygen and light – the major causes of food spoilage. Mylar was first used in the 1950's and has since been used for a range of uses including space blankets and food storage bags.
Why are Mylar Bags Good for Food Storage?
Well, what makes Mylar bags superior to other forms of storing food and materials?The benefits are numerous. To begin with, Mylar bags offer a tight seal which is important in preserving food items. They are also very long lasting and these can last for years especially when they have been well stored. Compared to regular plastic bags, Mylar bags protect food from exposure to light and moisture which are some of the main causes of food spoilage.
General Characteristics of High Quality Mylar Bags
When choosing Mylar bags there are features that define good bags from the rest of the bags.
Thickness: Choose ones that have a thickness of 5 mils and above for better sturdiness of the bags.
Sealability: The strength of the seal cannot be compromised in any way. Choose bags that can be sealed using heat to ensure tight closure is achieved on the bags.
Durability: It is recommended to use high-quality Mylar bags that are not easy to tear and can withstand different storage conditions.
Light and Moisture Barrier: Make sure the bags can keep light and moisture away and maintain the quality of your food.
How to Select the Best Mylar Bags
To select the appropriate Mylar bags, it is imperative to consider the purpose that the bags are going to serve. Begin evaluating what you intend to stow away to possibly be kept in the storage facility. What do you do to preserve grains, dried fruits or do you prepare full meals to store?This will help you establish the size and thickness required for your bags.
Size Options: Mylar bags come in various sizes – small pouches and even 5-gallon bags and the quality also varies. The size of the container needs to be proportional with the amount of food you plan to store.
Thickness Considerations: Although general use bags are needed for short term storage, thicker bags (5-7 mils) are recommended for long term storage. Thinner bags may be satisfactory for short-term or, at most, for non-urgent storage situations.
Types of Mylar Bag and Their Suitability for Various Foods
This means that depending on the type of food that is in the refrigerator, the temperatures need to be set in different manners. Here's a quick guide:
Grains and Legumes: To store larger amounts of food, use bags that are larger, preferably thicker than the regular ones used to store smaller quantities of food.
Dried Fruits and Vegetables: The best packaging materials should therefore be medium-sized with good light and moisture resistance.
Emergency Meals and Preppers: As small to medium bags, along with appropriate oxygen absorbers, keep you ready for any contingency.
The following are the steps to follow when using Mylar bags:-
Preparing the Food: Before blending food should be dry and should be at room temperature.
Filling the Bags: As for the joints, do not fit them at the top tightly.
Sealing Methods: Seal the bags aseptically with the help of a heat sealer or iron and make sure not to let the bags stick to each other. Make sure the mouth of the container, lid or seal is well closed to minimize air and moisture infiltration.
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Regarding the storage of Mylar bags, the following recommendations are pertinent:
Ideal Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and well-sheltered condition away from direct sunlight and heat.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: This is due to the fact that stacking the bags too high may lead to formation of tears or breaks on the seal.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned preppers can make mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overfilling Bags : Leave enough room to seal the bags properly.
- Improper Sealing Techniques : Double-check seals for any gaps or weak spots.
- Inadequate Oxygen Absorbers : Use the right size and number of oxygen absorbers for the volume of food.
The Role of Oxygen Absorbers
Oxygen absorbers are a game-changer for long-term food storage. They work by removing oxygen from the sealed environment, thus preventing oxidation and spoilage.
- How They Work : These small packets contain iron powder that reacts with oxygen to form rust, thereby reducing the oxygen level inside the bag.
- Choosing the Right Size and Quantity : Use a chart or calculator to determine the correct size based on the bag's volume.
Vacuum Sealing vs. Mylar Bags
Both vacuum sealing and Mylar bags have their pros and cons:
- Pros of Vacuum Sealing : Great for short-term storage, easy to use, and compact.
- Cons of Vacuum Sealing : Not ideal for long-term storage as they can lose their seal over time.
- Pros of Mylar Bags : Excellent for long-term storage, durable, and superior barrier properties.
- Cons of Mylar Bags : Requires more effort to seal and may need additional protective measures.
DIY Mylar Bag Storage Solutions
Creating your own Mylar bag storage setup can be both cost-effective and satisfying. Here are some tips:
- Homemade Setups : Use plastic bins or buckets to store filled Mylar bags, providing extra protection.
- Cost-Effective Strategies : Buy bags and oxygen absorbers in bulk to save money.
Sustainability and Reusability of Mylar Bags
Considering the environmental impact is important:
- Environmental Impact : Mylar bags are not biodegradable, but their longevity can reduce waste.
- Tips for Reusing and Recycling : If bags are not damaged, they can be reused after proper cleaning. Check for recycling programs that accept Mylar materials.
Conclusion
Mylar bags are an excellent choice for anyone serious about food storage. Their superior barrier properties, durability, and versatility make them a staple for preppers, families, and anyone looking to preserve their food supply. By understanding how to choose, use, and store these bags effectively, you can ensure that your food remains safe and fresh for years to come.
FAQs
How long can food last in Mylar bags? Food stored in Mylar bags, when combined with oxygen absorbers and kept in ideal conditions, can last up to 25 years.
Can Mylar bags be reused? Yes, if they are carefully opened and not damaged, Mylar bags can be reused.
Do I need special equipment to seal Mylar bags? While a heat sealer is recommended, a household iron or hair straightener can also be used to seal Mylar bags.
Are all Mylar bags the same? No, Mylar bags vary in thickness, durability, and quality. Always choose high-quality bags for long-term storage.
What foods should not be stored in Mylar bags? Foods with high moisture or oil content should not be stored in Mylar bags as they can spoil or go rancid.
