Longterm Food Storage

When it comes to food storage, some food can be stored for many, many years, and then there are foods than have a short shelf life.  Carolyn Washburn of Utah State University Extension said there are several advantages to storing food; from security to cost savings.  Yet the key to assure a long shelf life for stored food, is how you store it.

"If you can store things in cool, dark, low moisture, low oxygen areas; then shelf life is generally much better," said said.

Cool, meaning a temperature range of between 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for food stored in non-refrigerated areas.

"For every 10 degrees in heat you go up to, cut that shelf life about in half."

Another storage tip to extend food shelf life?  The type of container you keep your product in, with an emphasis on number 10 cans, or oxygen free containers like those vacuum packed or have a hermetic seal.  Washburn noted mylar bags and  glass jars, are good for long term food storage.

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