Dehydrated foods are a fantastic way to preserve your harvest and enjoy seasonal produce year-round. But how do you ensure that your efforts aren’t wasted and your dehydrated goods remain edible and nutritious for as long as possible? The key lies in proper storage. While some dehydrated foods can theoretically last up to 25 years, optimizing for taste, texture, and nutritional value means aiming to consume them within a more reasonable timeframe, like five years. Let’s explore effective methods for storing your dehydrated food, focusing on canning jar sealers and mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
Option #1: Utilizing a Canning Jar Sealer Kit
A canning jar sealer kit, combined with a vacuum sealer, provides an efficient way to remove air from mason jars and create an airtight seal.
Pros: The primary advantage is eliminating the need for oxygen absorbers and allowing for easy resealing after each use. If you frequently access your dehydrated food, this method is ideal. The clear glass of mason jars also provides visibility, enabling you to check the food’s condition.
Cons: Exposure to light can degrade the food’s quality. Storing the jars in a dark, cool place is crucial for maximum shelf life.
How to Use a Canning Jar Sealer
Supplies needed:
- Canning Jar Sealer Kit
- Vacuum Sealer
- Mason Jars and Lids
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Prepare the Jars: Wash and thoroughly dry the mason jars. Ensure they are completely dry before filling.
- Fill the Jars: Pack the dehydrated food into the jars, leaving approximately one inch of headspace.
- Attach the Sealer: Connect the external hose attachment to your vacuum sealer.
- Seal the Jar: Place a canning lid on the jar (without the band). Cover the lid with the canning jar sealer. Attach the vacuum sealer hose to the top of the jar sealer.
- Vacuum Seal: Use the canister function on your vacuum sealer. It will automatically stop when complete.
- Remove and Store: Carefully remove the hose and jar sealer. The lid should now be firmly sealed to the jar. Add the band if desired. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark location.
Note: The canning jar sealer is not a substitute for heat canning.
Option #2: Mylar Bags and Oxygen Absorbers for Extended Storage
Mylar bags, in conjunction with oxygen absorbers, offer another excellent long-term storage solution for dehydrated foods.
Pros: Mylar bags effectively block light, odors, oxygen, and moisture, all of which can degrade food quality. This makes them ideal for long-term preservation.
Cons: Mylar bags aren’t rodent-proof. To mitigate this, store them inside a sealed bucket or rodent-resistant container. Resealing a mylar bag after opening requires extra effort and a fresh oxygen absorber.
How to Use Mylar Bags with Oxygen Absorbers
Supplies you’ll need:
- Mylar Bags
- Oxygen Absorbers
- Iron, Flat Iron, or Impulse Heat Sealer
Step-by-step Instructions:
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Fill the Bag: Fill the mylar bag with dehydrated food, leaving a few inches of space at the top.
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Add Oxygen Absorber: Add an appropriately sized oxygen absorber. A 300cc absorber is suitable for a half-gallon or gallon-sized bag.
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Seal the Bag: Immediately seal the open end of the bag. Use an iron, flat iron, or impulse heat sealer to create a secure closure.
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Label and Store: Label the bag with the contents and date, then store it in a rodent-proof container.
Tips for Success:
- When using an iron, seal most of the bag, leaving just enough space to add the oxygen absorber before completing the seal. This minimizes the absorber’s exposure to air.
- Reseal unused oxygen absorbers immediately in a vacuum-sealed bag to keep them fresh for future use.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right storage method depends on your usage patterns and long-term goals. If you access your dehydrated foods frequently, a canning jar sealer offers convenience. For long-term, less-frequent use, mylar bags with oxygen absorbers provide superior protection against environmental factors. No matter which method you choose, always store your dehydrated foods in a cool, dark, and dry environment to maximize their shelf life and preserve their quality.
