by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: March 02, 2009

Proper food storage is often overlooked in the average household. Food is simply stuffed into shelves and left there. Food packages are opened and not sealed properly. You can extend the shelf life of your food and lessen the risk of serious illness by using some food storage tips.

Canned Goods

Canned food items should be stored on shelves and away from the ground where moisture can accumulate. The storage area should be indoors and not in a garage where it can get cold. Canned food will last past its expiry date. Check your cans for bumps, rust on the can, or foul smells when opened as this will indicate spoilage. While it is still better to buy fresh canned goods, older cans are still safe to consume. You should buy extra canned goods in case of emergencies as this type of food storage lasts the longest.

Meat and Fish

All meat and fish unless it is to be consumed in a day or two, should be immediately frozen once it is brought home. Remove portions from the package and wrap in plastic wrap and seal in airtight bags or containers in the freezer. Check meat and fish periodically for discoloration and freezer burn. Most meat and fish will keep safely frozen for several months.

Produce

Produce should be stored in the crisper section of the fridge. When using vegetables for cooking, store unused portions in small, airtight containers, instead of wrapping the vegetables in plastic wrap. Produce stored in containers will last longer. Apples and oranges will store for longer periods then berries or other softer fruits. If fruit is going soft you can still use it in baking or as a smoothie. Discard fruit or vegetables that omit foul odors or that are moldy and discolored.

Baked Goods

You can extend the life of bread, buns, and other baked goods by purchasing a large airtight container for your bread. Keep the bread in its bag but store it in the airtight container once it has been opened. Extra bread can be frozen and kept in the freezer. Discard moldy bread and make bread crumbs with bread that has gone hard.

Packaged Food

Packaged items can be kept in the original package until ready for use. Once the food product has been opened it should be transferred to an airtight container. You can purchase these containers at dollar stores for low prices. Packaged goods like cereal, pasta, rice, cookies, and other goods will keep longer and fresher in airtight containers. Be sure to label each container so you know what is inside of it. You could also purchase larger bins and store more for emergencies. This would be a good idea when an item goes on sale. You should store bulk items in containers as well to help maintain freshness and shelf life. Having food in containers can lead to better organization in the pantry and cupboards too.

Other Tips

Always check your stored food periodically for any signs of spoilage. In the summer months you should inspect food for signs of insects or rodents. Ants and other small pests can be a problem. You should set traps if you need to or call extermination services. Try to keep all food off the floor and away from any moisture sources. Separate meats from produce in the fridge and use trays to catch any drips from defrosting foods. Food can be stored in other ways too which can include jars with seals, smoking, dehydrating, and canning.

Store your food properly and you will extend its shelf life, flavor, and save you money. Be sure to have extra food available for emergencies.

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