Dry food should be stored properly to retain its quality, nutritional value and shelf life. Storing dehydrated fruits, nuts, pantry staples like rice and flour helps prevent spoilage, mold and contamination and it all depends on the right methods. Knowing how to store the dry food is as important as reducing food waste since your food will remain fresh and flavorful for a longer period. That is why we created this guide to storing dry fruits, as well as all the ins and outs of dry food storage.
How do we keep our dry food safe and long lasting?
Why Proper Dry Food Storage Matters?
Storing Dry Food Correctly: Key Benefits
Preserves Freshness: Prevents staleness, rancidity, and nutrient loss.
It prevents contamination; no insects, bacteria and mold.
Reduces Waste: It extends the shelf life of food and reduces food waste.
Cost Effective: Buying in bulk and storing dry food properly is cost effective.
In the hands of an expert personnel, with a little knowledge in food storage and the appropriate techniques, your favorite dry fruits are yours to enjoy for months or even years!
Best Practices for Storing Dry Food
Choosing the Right Storage Containers
Preserving dry food relies on the right containers. Here are some key considerations:
- Airtight containers keep the moisture and air off the food itself to keep their quality at maximum.
- Glass Jars: Not absorb odors and good for storing nuts, grains and dried fruits.
- BPA Free and Food Grade Plastic Containers
- Mylar Bags for long term food storage as they keep food fresh and free from light and oxygen.
- Vacuum Sealed Bags: Remove air to extend shelf life.
- Also, to protect your dry food from getting exposed to air and light, you can use Die Cut Mylar Bags for storing dry food securely.
Storing Dry Fruits & Vegetables
How to Store Dehydrated Fruit Properly?
Store in a pantry away from sunlight.
Airtight Glass Jars: Prevent moisture absorption.
Oxygen Absorbers: Helps to extend shelf life by reducing oxidation.
If storing longer than a year, keep in a freezer or a safe container.
Is It Possible to Store Dry Fruits in Plastic Containers?
There are some precautions, yes, but:
- Use BPA-free, food-grade plastic containers.
- To avoid humidity damage, keep containers in a cool and dry place.
- Use non thin, plastic bags to avoid getting air and moisture in.
- Plastic containers with vacuum sealing are good for preservation.
Ideal Conditions for Storing Dry Food
Storing dry food in the correct conditions and environment will help to maximize its shelf life.
Temperature
Best storage temperature: 50°F – 70°F (10°C – 21°C). Do not store dry food near stoves, ovens or temperature fluctuating areas.
Humidity
Mold and bacteria grow in moisture.
Ideal humidity level: Below 15% for dry food storage.
Light Exposure
Sunlight degrades nutrients and flavors. Dark containers or opaque Mylar bags will store food.
Air & Oxygen Control
Spoilage and oxidation are caused by oxygen exposure. When food is long term stored, use oxygen absorbers.
How Long Do Dry Fruits Last?
The shelf life of dried fruits depends on storage conditions and packaging.
| Dry Fruit | Room Temperature (Airtight Storage) | Refrigerator | Freezer |
| Raisins | 6-12 months | 1-2 years | 3-5 years |
| Dried Apricots | 6-12 months | 1-2 years | 3-5 years |
| Dates | 6-12 months | 1-2 years | 5+ years |
| Figs | 6-8 months | 1 year | 2-3 years |
| Prunes | 6-12 months | 1-2 years | 3-5 years |
Should Dried Fruits Be Stored in the Fridge?
Usually, no. However, if you live in a humid area, you should store dried fruits in the refrigerator. Ensure, however, that they are in airtight bags or glass containers to prevent absorption of moisture.
Storage Tips for Different Dry Foods
Grains & Legumes
Keep stored in airtight containers and away from moisture.
Long term storage requires the use of oxygen absorbers.
To prevent spoilage, keep it in a cold, dark place.
Flour & Baking Supplies
To prevent the whole wheat flour from going rancid, keep it in the refrigerator.
Seal sugar and salt in airtight containers to avoid clumping.
Nuts & Seeds
To avoid the oils from turning rancid, store in the fridge or freezer.
Once in the bag, leave in the fridge for longer freshness.
Herbs & Spices
Place in dark glass jars and keep away from heat and sunlight.
Ground spices expire faster than whole spices.
Dry Food Has Gone Bad Signs
Dry food even stored properly will deteriorate over time. Be on the lookout for the following warning signs:
- Strange Odor: Indicates spoilage or rancidity.
- Mold or Moisture: Seeing mold or clumps indicates contamination.
- Pest Infestation: Presence of insects, webbing, or larvae.
- Discoloration: Food is no longer safe if it is discolored.
- Off Taste: A bitter or stale taste means spoilage.
If you see any of the following signs, throw the food away and avoid risk to your health.
Long-Term Dry Food Storage: Best Practices
If you want to store dry food for so many years, then do the following things:
- Use Mylar Bags with Oxygen Absorbers: Best for grains, beans, and dried fruits.
- Store Food-Grade Buckets: Best for storing flour, rice, pasta, other foods
- Powdered Form: Shelf life increases and nutrients are preserved when frozen dried (freeze dried).
- Everything should be labeled: Package dates and expiration dates.
Conclusion
Storage of food in a dry manner is crucial for keeping it fresh, to avoid spoilage, and to stay safe from food poisoning. Dried fruits, nuts, grains, etc. can be extended in shelf life very well by using airtight containers, Mylar bags, and proper refrigeration. One way or another, these best practices will help keep your food quality well as you alternate daily use versus long term emergency preparedness. If you are looking for a premium quality storage solution for your food then Mylar Bags would be a good choice to keep your food fresh and safe for a longer time. By implementing these food storage techniques, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy fresh, flavorful, and nutritious dry food for years to come