The BEST Food Storage Containers for Your Freeze-Dried Foods

When it comes to safeguarding your precious freeze-dried foods, the choice of storage containers is paramount. The right container can protect your culinary creations from the relentless enemies of food storage—moisture, light, temperature, oxygen, pests, time, and even curious kids. In this article, we'll explore some of the best food storage containers for freeze-dried food and help you make informed decisions to keep your food supply safe and flavorful.

1. Mylar Bags

Mylar bags are the superheroes of food storage containers when it comes to freeze-dried foods. Recognizable by their shiny silver appearance, these bags offer several advantages:

Airtight Seal: Mylar bags can be sealed with an impulse sealer, creating an airtight barrier that effectively keeps out moisture, oxygen, and light.
Thick and Durable: Opt for the 7-mil thickness for Mylar bags, as they provide robust protection against external elements, ensuring the longevity of your freeze-dried foods.
Protection from Light: Mylar bags are excellent at blocking out light, which is essential for preserving the quality and nutritional value of your stored food.
Moisture Barrier: These bags serve as a reliable barrier against moisture, preventing the rehydration of freeze-dried foods and the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Easy Labeling: Mylar bags are easy to label, helping you keep track of your food storage inventory efficiently.

However, to ensure perfect protection, Mylar bags should be placed inside rodent-proof containers, as rodents can potentially chew through the bags given enough time.

2. Glass Canning Jars

Glass canning jars, also known as Mason Jars or Kerr Jars, have a long history of preserving food, and they are equally effective for freeze-dried foods. Here's why they are a solid choice:

Airtight Sealing: Canning jars are designed to withstand intense pressure, ensuring a secure, airtight seal that keeps out oxygen, moisture, and pests.
Stackable: These jars stack neatly in their original boxes, making organization and storage a breeze.
Amber-Colored Jars: If available, opt for amber-colored jars. They are a great choice to combat the enemy of light, as they help block out harmful rays.
Compatibility with FoodSaver®: You can use a FoodSaver® with the appropriate attachment to seal canning jars effectively.

However, keep in mind that glass jars are breakable, so handle them with care.

3. Metal Cans

Tin and aluminum cans offer robust protection for your freeze-dried foods. They are known for their durability and effectiveness in keeping out external threats:

Airtight and Lightproof: Metal cans provide an airtight and lightproof environment, shielding your food from oxygen, moisture, and light.
Rodent-Proof: These cans are inherently rodent-proof, offering added security against pests.
Stackable: They stack easily in their boxes, allowing for efficient storage.

However, it's important to note that using metal cans for home preservation may require specialized equipment for sealing, which can be cost-prohibitive for some individuals.

Other Useful Containers

In addition to the primary options mentioned above, you may find the following containers useful for specific purposes:

4. Plastic Buckets, Totes, Tubs

To provide extra protection for Mylar or vacuum-sealed bags and to deter rodents, consider placing them inside plastic buckets, totes, or tubs. These containers add an additional layer of security, enhancing the shelf life of your foods. However, remember that rodents can chew through plastic over time, so it's essential to have multiple layers of protection against pests.

5. Vacuum Seal Bags: For Immediate Storage

Vacuum seal bags, such as those compatible with FoodSaver® sealers, are designed to remove air from the package, prolonging the shelf life of your freeze-dried foods. Here are some considerations:

Air Removal: Vacuum seal bags effectively remove air, which can extend the freshness of your foods.
Immediate Storage: These bags are ideal for immediate storage or short-term preservation, typically under a year.
Delicate Foods: Be cautious when using vacuum seal bags for delicate freeze-dried foods, as the sealing process can crush them.
Storage Conditions: Foods stored in vacuum seal bags should be kept in a cool, dark room and placed inside a protective container, such as a bucket, to prevent punctures and preserve quality.

6. Plastic Ziploc Bags: Snack-sized Convenience

Plastic Ziploc bags can be handy for holding small amounts of freeze-dried foods, particularly for snacks or quick access. However, these bags should only be used for short-term storage and are not suitable for long-term preservation, as they do not provide adequate protection against light, oxygen, moisture, or pests. They are perfect for kids' snacks or quick munching but should not be relied upon for your primary food storage needs.

Choosing the right food storage containers for your freeze-dried foods is essential to ensure their longevity and quality. Mylar bags, glass canning jars, and metal cans are among the best options, each offering unique benefits. Additionally, plastic buckets, totes, and vacuum seal bags can serve specific purposes in enhancing food preservation. By selecting the appropriate containers and implementing layered protection, you can safeguard your culinary creations from the seven enemies of food storage and enjoy their delicious flavors for years to come.

Additional Resources

What Foods Can You Freeze-Dry?