Dehydrating Food: Can You Use Plastic or Mylar Bags for Storage?

Dehydrating food is a fantastic way to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. It’s a popular method for preserving fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even meat. Once you’ve dehydrated your food, the next step is storage, and a common question arises: can you use plastic or mylar bags for storing dehydrated food?

Plastic Bags: A Convenient but Questionable Choice

Plastic bags are readily available and inexpensive, making them a tempting option for storing dehydrated food. However, there are some concerns to consider:

• Moisture Barrier: While some plastic bags are advertised as being moisture-proof, they may not offer the same level of protection as other storage options. This can lead to moisture absorption and spoilage, especially in humid environments.
• Oxygen Permeability: Plastic bags are not completely airtight, allowing oxygen to penetrate and potentially cause oxidation. This can affect the flavor, color, and nutritional value of your dehydrated food.
• Chemical Leaching: Some plastics can leach chemicals into your food, especially when exposed to heat or prolonged storage. This is a particular concern with low-quality or recycled plastic bags.

If you decide to use plastic bags, it’s crucial to choose food-grade, BPA-free bags specifically designed for food storage. Additionally, consider using a vacuum sealer to remove air and minimize oxygen exposure.

Mylar Bags: A Superior Choice for Long-Term Storage

Mylar bags offer several advantages over plastic bags for storing dehydrated food:

• Excellent Moisture Barrier: Mylar is highly resistant to moisture, preventing condensation and spoilage.
• Oxygen Barrier: Mylar is a good oxygen barrier, significantly reducing oxidation and preserving the quality of your dehydrated food.
• Durability: Mylar bags are strong and puncture-resistant, providing excellent protection for your food.
• Chemical Inertness: Mylar is chemically inert, meaning it doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your food.

Mylar bags are typically used with oxygen absorbers, which further reduce oxygen levels within the bag, extending the shelf life of your dehydrated food. Oxygen absorbers are small packets that absorb oxygen from the air, creating an anaerobic environment that slows down spoilage.

Choosing the Right Storage Method

The best storage method for your dehydrated food depends on several factors, including the type of food, storage duration, and environmental conditions.

Food Type	Storage Duration	Storage Method
Fruits, Vegetables	Short-term (1-3 months)	Airtight containers, plastic bags (food-grade)
Herbs, Spices	Long-term (6-12 months)	Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers
Meat, Fish	Long-term (1-2 years)	Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, vacuum sealing

For short-term storage, airtight containers or food-grade plastic bags can be sufficient. However, for long-term storage, mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are highly recommended to ensure optimal preservation of your dehydrated food.

Tips for Storing Dehydrated Food

• Cool and Dry Environment: Store your dehydrated food in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Labeling: Label your storage bags or containers with the food type, date of dehydration, and any relevant information.
• Regular Inspection: Check your stored food periodically for signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off-odor.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dehydrated food remains safe, fresh, and flavorful for months or even years.