Are the Mylar Bags the Best for Freeze Dried Food?

Appropriate storage for freeze-dried food helps retain its nutritional value, savor, and permanence. Meanwhile, this article evaluates if Mylar bags, with their better barrier properties against light, moisture, and oxygen, are the best option for this purpose. It compares Mylar bags with glass jars while analyzing their trustworthiness and fittingness for long-term food preservation.

Introducing Mylar Bags

Mylar bags, composed of biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BoPET), offer protection thanks to their barrier against light, moisture, and oxygen. Developed in the 1950s by DuPont Hoechst, Mylar is created by vaporizing aluminum in a vacuum and bonding it to a polyester sheet. Then, the PET film is biaxially stretched at temperatures above 200 degrees for its durability and flexibility. For instance, the US Library of Congress uses Mylar for document preservation due to its resistance to moisture, acids, and oils. Moreover, Mylar bags are key to long-term food storage. They keep the freshness of items for up to 25 years when used with oxygen absorbers.

Advantages of Mylar Bags for Freeze-Dried Food

• Barrier Properties: Mylar bags offer protection against light, moisture, and oxygen. It is key to freeze-dried food since the elements might worsen quality and shelf life. For example, the metallic layer in Mylar bags lowers oxygen transmission rates.
• Flexibility and Lightweight: The bags are lightweight and elastic for shipping large quantities of freeze-dried food. So, transportation costs are low, and storage is efficient. Mylar bags can be packed in close-fitting spaces without conceding the food's reliability.
• Customization and Sealability: Mylar bags can be modified with printing for branding and nutritional information. Also, they can be sealed using heat or zip-lock mechanisms for a hermetic setting. It verifies that freeze-dried food remains germ-free and fresh.
• Durability: Mylar bags repel punctures and tears to preserve freeze-dried food. It suits foods with sharp edges, including freeze-dried fruits or vegetables. Further, the strong material helps uphold the bag's uprightness during long-term storage and conveyance.

Considerations and Limitations

Thickness

Mylar bags should be 5-7.5 Mils thick for freeze-dried food. Thicker bags, including 7+ Mils, offer better puncture resistance and light protection. Pasta and granola benefit from 7.5 Mils to thwart sharp edges from causing leaks. Plus, 5 Mils thickness suits most grains and spices for freshness.

Rodent Proofing

Mylar bags aren't rodent-proof and need extra measures. For freeze-dried food, store Mylar bags in sealed plastic or metal containers to avert rodent access. Additionally, use rodent repellents or traps around storage areas. It confirms that food is safe and untainted over protracted periods.

Comparison with Other Packaging Options

Pharmaceuticals and long-term food are better preserved in Mylar bags than plastic. Glass jars are chemically stable and visible. Nevertheless, they are hefty and breakable. It demands careful handling and higher shipping expenses. Plastic containers are reusable but not Mylar-impermeable. It decreases long-term storage effectiveness. Mylar is lightweight and flexible, making it cheaper to transport than glass jars, which are heavy and require extra protection.

Practical Tips for Using Mylar Bags

• Oxygen Absorbers: Oxygen absorbers with Mylar bags are crucial for freeze-dried food. They remove residual oxygen to stop oxidation and spoilage. For example, adding a 300cc oxygen absorber to a quart-sized Mylar bag may cut oxygen levels to 0.01%. The low-oxygen environment inhibits mold and bacteria growth, so food stays fresh for years.
• Sealing Process: Sealing Mylar bags gives them airtight storage. For best results, use an impulse sealer, or a flat iron / hair straightener. Start sealing from one side and move slowly to avoid wrinkles for an even seal.
• Storage Recommendations: Store Mylar bags in a cool, dark, and dehydrated place for food quality. High temperatures can degrade the bag's uprightness. Light exposure can cause nutrient loss. For instance, a basement or pantry with stable humidity levels is ideal. It minimizes the jeopardy of moisture penetration and UV mutilation.

Evaluate your storage needs before considering Mylar bags to preserve freeze-dried food. Along these lines, you may check out StayFresh's Mylar bags and other offerings for quality preferences.