Food Storage Conditions
Moisture and temperature are the two critical factors in optimal food storage.
Moisture
Temperature
The optimal temperature range is in the cool to moderate range, approximately 40 - 70 degrees F. Research at Brigham Young University (Ref. 1.) on long term storage has shown that wheat retained an acceptable quality for 25 years stored cold (basement) and only 5 years stored hot (garage or attic). Grain germination rates will decline and vitamin breakdown rates in all stored foods will increase as the temperature increases. Canned foods should not be allowed to freeze. Freezing will bulge cans and may cause seam failures leading to a potential for foodborne illness. Dry foods can freeze without concern.
Other factors
Direct sunlight is detrimental to foods. It can speed deterioration of both the food and the packaging. The heat from sunlight can also speed deterioration. Always store foods off the floor. Flooring materials, especially concrete can leech chemicals into stored foods. These chemicals can pass through plastics and can cause rust to form on metal.
References
1. Green R., D.J.Rose, L.V.Ogden, O.A.Pike. "Effects of long-term storage on quality of retail-packaged wheat." J. Food Sci. July 2005: Abstract # 54H-8.
Related Research
Conditioning or Curing of Dried Fruits and Vegetables
Pieces of food taken from the drying trays are not always uniformly dry. To condition, place cooled dried fruit loosely in large plastic or glass containers, about two-thirds full.
Cooking Food Storage
Some essentials are needed to cook with the main food staples in long term food storage. These mostly are used to make breads from stored grains. The cooking essentials include salt, baking powder, baking soda, and yeast.
Food Storage Conditions
Moisture and temperature are the two critical factors in optimal food storage. Moisture - the humidity in the storage environment should be low. If dried foods pick up moisture from the storage area, molds and bacteria can grow. This can lead to spoilage
Food Storage in Home
A food storage program is essential to provide for ourselves and our family members in an emergency. The biggest motivator most adults have is to avoid hearing a hungry child cry. Even the most “macho” man is distraught if he cannot provide food or bevera
Packaging Methods
A few packaging methods for your food storage and food that is being preserved. Methods including foil pouches, glass canning, and plastic bottles are discussed.
Storing Canned Goods
Canned foods can either be purchased commercially or home canned. Home canned foods should be canned using research-tested recipes and processes like those found in the USDA Complete Guide to Canning or in Extension publications.
Storing Sugars
Sugars are simple carbohydrates that provide an excellent source of calories for energy. Sugars also add the sweet taste to many of our most delicious foods. Sugar can be stored in dry form (crystals) or in a liquid form (syrup –including maple syrup).
Storing Water
If the supply of safe water is cut off during an emergency, it is important to have water stored. Learn how to store water safely and where you can find an emergency source if needed.