Long-term food storage is essential for emergency preparedness, reducing food waste, and saving money. Mylar bags for food storage are one of the best solutions for keeping food fresh for years. But how do they work, and what’s the best way to use them?
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about mylar bags for food, including why they’re effective, how to use them properly, and how they compare to mylar bags for vacuum sealers.
What Are Mylar Bags?
Mylar bags are made from a polyester film called BoPET (biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate). This material is strong, flexible, and highly resistant to moisture, oxygen, and light—making it perfect for food storage.
Why Use Mylar Bags for Food Storage?
Using mylar bags for food storage offers several benefits:
Extended Shelf Life – Properly stored food can last 5 to 25 years.
Protects Against Moisture & Light – Keeps food fresh and safe.
Prevents Pests & Contamination – Blocks out insects and bacteria.
Cost-Effective – A great alternative to expensive storage methods.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Mylar Bags for Food Storage
1. Choose the Right Mylar Bag Size
Mylar bags come in different sizes, from small pouches to large 5-gallon bags. The size you need depends on what and how much food you’re storing.
- Small Bags (1-2 quarts) – Perfect for spices, nuts, and seeds.
- Medium Bags (1-2 gallons) – Good for rice, beans, and pasta.
- Large Bags (5 gallons) – Best for bulk grains, flour, and freeze-dried food.
2. Use Oxygen Absorbers
Oxygen can cause food to spoil. Adding oxygen absorbers removes air and helps food last longer. Here’s a general guideline:
- 1-quart bag → 50cc absorber
- 1-gallon bag → 300-500cc absorber
- 5-gallon bag → 2000cc absorber
3. Seal the Mylar Bag Properly
You can seal mylar bags for food using different methods:
- Heat Sealer – The best option for a professional airtight seal.
- Clothing Iron or Hair Straightener – A DIY alternative. Just press along the edges to seal.
- Vacuum Sealer – If using mylar bags for vacuum sealer, ensure the bag is compatible with vacuum sealing machines.
4. Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Keep sealed Mylar bags in a dry, cool location. Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, or places with fluctuating temperatures.
Best Foods to Store in Mylar Bags
Here are some foods that store well in Mylar bags:
Grains – Rice, wheat, oats
Legumes – Beans, lentils, chickpeas
Dried Foods – Pasta, powdered milk, spices
Freeze-Dried Fruits & Vegetables – Apples, carrots, berries
Avoid storing fresh produce, wet foods, and anything high in fat or moisture.
How Do Mylar Bags Compare to Vacuum Sealing?
Many people wonder whether to use mylar bags for food storage or a vacuum sealer. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Mylar Bags | Vacuum Sealer Bags |
| Shelf Life | 5-25 years | 1-3 years |
| Moisture Barrier | Excellent | Good |
| Light Protection | Yes | No |
| Best for Bulk Storage | Yes | No |
| Reusable | Yes | Sometimes |
For long-term storage, Mylar bags are the best choice. However, if you plan to use food within a year or two, vacuum sealing is a good option.
Conclusion
Using mylar bags for food storage is one of the best ways to preserve food for years. With the right Mylar bag size, oxygen absorbers, and proper sealing, you can keep food fresh and safe. You can order Nova Custom Boxes and we can make custom mylar bags according to your requirements.
Whether you’re preparing for an emergency, reducing food waste, or stocking up on essentials, Mylar bags are a smart investment. Ready to start? Grab some mylar bags for food today and take control of your long-term storage!
