PACKAGING
many different sizes including one that fills a 5-gallon bucket
INTRODUCTION Moisture and oxygen are two of the most important factors in spoilage or deterioration of stored foods. Moisture in dried foods can lead to microbial growth. Moisture around metal canned foods could lead to rust and an eventual compromise of the can. Oxygen is an important factor in quality deterioration of many foods. To store foods over a prolonged period requires packaging that resists moisture and oxygen transfer. Foil pouches or bags, glass canning jars, plastic PETE bottles, and plastic buckets are common acceptable storage containers.
FOIL POUCHES Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE) and foil laminate pouches are exceptional food containers. The polyethyene (PET) layer is food-grade plastic with no known toxicities (Castle, 1989). The foil layer dramatically reduces the transmission of oxygen and moisture through the film. One trade name is Mylar®and it is often used as a generic name. Be aware that even though there is a metallic layer in the bag, rodents can easily chew into it. These bags come in
Mylar®-type PET bag
28
FOOD STORAGE BASICS
Glass canning jar
(approx. 18”x28”). The 1-gallon bag holds approximately 7 pounds (3.2 kg) of wheat, 6.8 pounds (3.1 kg) of white rice, or 5 pounds (2.3 kg) of dry milk. Bags should be sealed using a heat sealing unit after first using oxygen absorbers to minimize oxygen. Sealing with an iron is not recommended due to a poor seal. Vacuum sealers may work for a few food types; however, powders and some granular products are not easily vacuum packaged. Remember, vacuum sealing is only safe for dry foods. Vacuum sealing moist foods may lead to botulism food poisoning.
GLASS CANNING JARS WITH SCREW-ON LIDS All glass jars used to can foods work well for storing dry foods as well, provided a tight sealing lid is used. However, only Mason-type canning jars with two-piece lids can be used safely for home canning foods. Be sure jars are thoroughly cleaned of all previous food residue before using them for food storage. Mason jars with metal lids are an excellent barrier to oxygen and can be used for long-term storage.
PET bottle
Metal cans
