When it comes to preparing long-term food storage, simply organizing your pantry, or presenting your product elegantly, mylar bags have always remained the best options for keeping food safe and fresh. They offer a durable, and airtight seal for food items made from quality BOPET sheets. Their secure locking mechanisms and puncture resistance make them ideal for long-term food storage.

The best part lies in their sealing properties as they offer light, odor, air, and child-resistant seals that make them ideal for preserving the nutrition of your food for longer. By sealing your food in these bags, you can save them for months or even years. This packaging solution has a wide array of industry applications but in this blog, we will focus on the best foods to store in mylar bags. We’ve compiled a whole list for you to make it easy to understand along with tips and tricks to follow.

Why Use Mylar Bags For Food Storage?

Mylar bags are designed for various industry needs but why are they most preferred for food products? Several electronic brands use window mylar bags with zip locks for hands-free, cables, etc. In pharmaceuticals, they are used to store supplements, medical powders, etc. So, before we delve into the list of foods that are considered best to be stored in mylar bags here are some of the features that make them ideal for food storage:

Oxygen Barrier

A small bag called an oxygen absorber is placed inside mylar bags to slow down the oxidation process of food. This small pouch contains iron that helps food to remain nutritious for longer than usual. Placing an oxygen absorber pouch is a must if you want to double the shelf life of your food.

Protection From Moisture

Moisure is the enemy of food and can result in bacteria and mold growth. Moisture presence around your food can spoil it quickly. So, looking for moisture-resistant packing is necessary if you want your food to remain in good health for longer. Mylar bags can also resolve this issue as made from a thick combination of polyester film and aluminum.

Shield From Light

Light can cause degradation in the food quality and extract its nutrients. It can lead to faster spoilage of food with changes in natural/ artificial colors. With Mylar storage, you don’t have to worry about these concerns as they provide strong light resistance with UV barriers. 

Pest Protection 

Some foods are more prone to insects and rodents. Mylars storage bags make your food impenetrable by providing a strong shield with sealed locks. This packaging is sealed from all sides thus leaving no opening for insects to enter the bag. Although some insects may cut the material to eat food. Mylars make them impossible to reach as they are made from strong polyester films.

Compact And Space-Efficient

Mylar bags can store large quantities of items while taking up minimal space. They are lightweight and thin, thus taking up less space than other packaging solutions. Their flexibility makes them ideal for bulk deliveries or storage conditions. Moreover, due to their thin profile, they can be stacked neatly.

Best Foods To Store In Mylar Bags

The number of food items that we can enclose in mylar bags is so wide that we can’t list them all. Mylar bags offer brands all the protective and elegant presentation qualities required while looking for a packaging solution. They are good enough to store some food even for an indefinite period. Here is a quick list of food items you can store in them without need of any research:

1.Grains (Rice, Oats. Etc)

Grains are used excessively all over the world and they need secure and sound storage. They are imported and exported in large quantities so their quality mainly depends on how they are packed. Mylar bags provide them with ideal storage for rice, oats, barley, or any other type of grain to extend their shelf life. White rice can last up to 30 years if combined with oxygen absorbers. The same is the case with other grains, you just have to take some precautions and guidelines.

Tips

• Choose about a 5-gallon mylar bag for a bulk quantity.
• Must put an oxygen absorber in the bag.
• Squeeze out the excess air from the bag.
• Label the bag with the date, quantity, and other necessary elements.

2.Pasta

Different types of pasta in versatile shapes are available in the market. Compared to other food items, pasta is already dry and easy to store. If stored with precise precautions, pasta can last up to 10 years in Mylar bags. These bags provide secure storage and extend their shelf life to an undefined period.

Tips

• Consider side gusset bags for easier filling of pasta.
• Leave a minimal air space after filling and add oxygen absorbent.
• Keep the mylar bag in a cool dry place.

3.Beans And Legumes

Beans and legumes are filled with protein and other nutrients. They are an essential part of the long-term food storage of not only retail stores but also home kitchens. They can last from 10 to 30 years in mylar bags depending on their types. The use of air absorbers is indispensable if you want to keep them intact and good for longer. 

          Tips

• Make sure your beans are completely dry and moisture-proof.
• Use the right size of the bag and leave some space for sealing.
• Label the type of bean, quantity, and expiry dates clearly on the bag.
• Keep the bag in a dry place.

4.Flour 

Both wheat and white flour are enriched with vitamins and calcium. People consume different types of flour daily according to their diets. Mylar bags are perfect for the protective and long-term storage of all types of flour. They seal the flour tightly to maintain a vacuum level ideal for long-term flour storage.

Tips

• Place the flour in the freezer for 48 hours to kill insect eggs.
• Use an appropriate amount of oxygen absorbers based on the amount of flour.
• Properly measure the flour and do not overfill.
• Allow the flour to reach room temperature before sealing.

5.Sugar (Powdered, Brown, etc.)

Sugar is a quick source of energy and helps in enhancing the flavor of food. With a lot of sweet lovers in the world, the consumption of sugar is beyond measurable. Mylar bags provide a good option for both home and retail storage of sugar. The type of mylar bags can vary according to the sugar type. Ziplock mylar bags can be considered for brown sugar for easier access and to avoid unnecessary exposure to air. 

Tips

• Leave a few inches of space between dealing and sugar to prevent scuffing.
• Add an oxygen absorber packet to remove excess air.
• Choose the storage location meticulously while avoiding direct light exposure
• Explore various types of mylars to achieve your sugar storage needs.

6.Powdered Milk

Powdered milk is a strong source of protein and helps maintain strong bones and teeth. A lot of powdered milk companies are available in the market using high-quality mylar storage bags due to their visible storage benefits. Powdered milk is sold in small, medium, and large quantities so consumers can get it according to their needs. Typically flat pouches are used for smaller quantities of powdered milk secured with an air-tight seal.

Tips

• Always use an oxygen absorber to eliminate oxygen.
• Examine the size of the bag that can perfectly hold the desired amount of powder.
• Divide milk powder into smaller bags for easier use.
• Inspect the bag thoroughly before sealing it to prevent contamination.

7.Dehydrated And Freeze-Dried Foods

Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods can retain most of the nutrients for the longer term when stored properly. They can last up to 10 to 30 years in mylar storage. You can prepare them for camping, home storage, and backpacking.

Tips

• Use a minimum of 100cc oxygen absorber packet.
• Use an impulse sealer to seal the bag securely.
• Make sure the bag has no holes or punchers.
• Store in a cool and dry place.

8.Coffee And Tea

With a wide array of coffee and teas available, retailers focus on how to present them securely and uniquely in the competitive market. They are usually seen on stand-up pouches to maintain their flavors for the long term. You can retain their freshness for about 5 years if stored with proper consideration.

Tips

• Make sure your coffee beans and tea leaves are completely dry.
• Select the right size of the bag according to the desired quantity to be stored.
• Choose an accurate sealing mechanism to prevent moisture and air from entering.
• Label your bag accurately with updated dates and type.

9.Spices And Herbs 

Spices and herbs are avoidable items for daily use. People all over the world utilize them according to their tastes and needs. They can provide the same taste and flavor for years if stored properly. Brands commonly use window mylar bags to help consumers easily identify their flavors. Furthermore, they are commonly used for cannabis packaging due to their versatile storage properties.

Tips

• Prevent heat and direct light as they can degrade the content over time.
• Use oxygen absorbers to extend the life of spices and herbs.
• Label the bag with accurate contents.
• Keep the bags in a clean and stable environment.

10.Nuts And Seeds

Nuts and seeds are susceptible to pests because of a rich amount of carbohydrates and fats. Only the use of precise storage containers can make them last up to 5 years. Mylar storage indeed is a good option for temperature control and pest protection. These bags offer an ideal moisture control that helps nuts and seeds to maintain their crunch.

Tips

• Dry nuts and seeds as much as possible before placing them in the bag.
• Prevent direct sunlight and high humidity.
• Use a BPA-free and lightweight storage bag.Store whole nuts instead of chopped and sliced.

11.Cereals And Granola

Cereals and granola are famous for breakfast and snacking and when stored in mylar storage bags, they can last for years. With the low moisture profile of cereals, they need puncture-resistant and moisture-proof packaging which is possible with mylars. These bags are customizable and brands generally opt for holographic mylar bags for cereals for an elegant appearance. 

Tips

• Prevent spoilage by keeping them in a cool place.
• Use vacuum-sealed bags to push out excessive air.
• Add oxygen absorbers to kill insects and prevent larvae.
• Prevent high humidity and places with fluctuating temperatures.

12.Jerky And Dried Meats

Jerky and dried meats are an excellent protein source and convenient snacks for active individuals. They have longer shelf life due to the dehydration process and when stored in mylars, it doubles their longevity. These bags help retain their freshness and flavor for months and even for years.

Tips 

• Dry thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
• Use vacuum sealers for best results.
• Avoid excess space that could trap air.
• Label each bag accurately to ensure proper rotation.
• Choose a pantry or dedicated storage area to maintain quality.

Why Do You Need Oxygen Absorbers?

You must have noticed that the use of oxygen absorbers is mentioned in the tips of each food thus reflecting the importance of being used for food storage. They can prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. Oxygen absorbers can efficiently extend the shelf life of food if used properly. Following are some of the reasons why they are an indispensable part of mylar food storage:

Prevents oxidation: Slow down the oxidation process of food by removing the excess air.

Extends shelf life: Can make food last up to 30 years by limiting the exposure of oxygen.

Prevent pests: Create a more secure environment by preventing insects.

Maintains food nutrition: Helps in retaining the flavor and nutrients of food for years.

How To Choose The Right Oxygen Absorbers?

The right oxygen absorber is necessary to use if you want to achieve the best results. The quantity and usage of absorber packets can vary according to several factors. Following are some of the tips you can take to have an ideal use of them:

• Use the right size of the bag. 100cc bags are commonly used for smaller bags while large bags should contain 200cc to 500cc absorbers.
• Drop the absorber in the bag before sealing and use the right amount for each one based on the food.
• Seal the bag tightly for efficient use of an oxygen absorber that will help keep the food safe.
• Store at a temperature of around 60-70 °F to get ideal food quality.
• Monitor the seals regularly and reseal them with an extra oxygen absorber if necessary.

In Closing

Mylar bags provide exceptional storage for several food items. When combined with oxygen absorbers, you can ensure your food’s freshness and protectiveness for years. Whether you are a retailer looking for secure food storage or just building a storage plan for a camping trip, a lot of experienced mylar bags makers are available in the market providing top-quality services. Just add your favorite food to your mylar storage list and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your food is well-preserved!