Introduction to Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are an essential tool for preppers looking to store food long-term. They provide an airtight, waterproof barrier that protects food from oxygen, moisture, insects, and rodents. Mylar bags come in different sizes, thicknesses, and with or without ziplock closures to meet various storage needs. Understanding the pros, cons, and proper usage of Mylar bags is vital for effective long-term food storage. This article will cover everything you need to know about Mylar bags and how to use them as part of your prepper food storage strategy.
What Are Mylar Bags?
Mylar bags, also known as foil pouches, are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a highly durable and flexible plastic. They have a metallic foil appearance which blocks light, moisture, and oxygen. Mylar is able to provide an airtight, waterproof barrier around stored food. It is resistant to punctures and tears, making Mylar more durable than regular plastic bags. Mylar bags help block insects, rodents, and other pests from getting into stored food supplies.
Common Uses
- Long-term food storage for preppers
- Protecting valuables like photos, documents, electronics
- Storing dehydrated and freeze-dried foods
- Packaging for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and more
- Insulating envelopes and packing material
Key Features
- Very low oxygen and moisture permeability
- Withstands extreme temperatures from -40F to 300F
- Chemical and grease resistance
- Reflective surface blocks light
- Can be vacuum sealed for added protection
- Reusable if undamaged
Types of Mylar Bags
Mylar bags come in a variety of types to suit different storage needs:
- Plain Mylar bags - basic bags without closures, best for short-term storage
- Zipper Mylar bags - resealable zipper strip closure, ideal for accessing contents
- Mylar bags with absorbers - contains oxygen absorbers for long-term storage
- Mylar bags with valve - one-way valve to vacuum seal, removes oxygen
- Pre-cut assorted sizes - convenient for small amounts of food
- Mylar bag rolls - create custom sized bags to fit contents
Mylar bags also come in different thicknesses:
- 1-2 mil Mylar - thinner and more economical
- 4-6 mil Mylar - thicker and more durable
- 8-10 mil Mylar - heavy duty for storing sharp dried foods
Thicker Mylar bags are recommended for long term storage.
Benefits of Using Mylar Bags
Mylar bags provide numerous advantages for long-term food storage. They block oxygen to prevent spoilage, provide a moisture barrier, and keep food safe from pests. Mylar withstands temperature fluctuations and has a long shelf life. Bags are reusable if undamaged. Custom sizes can be made from Mylar rolls.
Oxygen Absorption
- Without oxygen, aerobic bacteria cannot grow to spoil food
- Oxygen absorbers like iron powder can be added to bags
- Absorbers soak up oxygen for moisture-free environment
- Vacuum sealing also removes oxygen before sealing
Moisture Barrier
- Mylar blocks external moisture from getting in bag
- Also prevents internal moisture from escaping
- This creates a dry environment to prevent mold
- Food stays dry and crisp over time
Pest Protection
- Thick Mylar resists tears, scratches, and punctures
- Foil surface deters burrowing insects like weevils
- Also prevents entry by moths, beetles, or other pests
- Airtight seal prevents pests from getting into food
- Storing in Mylar preserves quality if pests get into supplies
Proper Usage of Mylar Bags
To maximize the effectiveness of Mylar bags:
- Select appropriate bag size to avoid excess air pockets
- Use oxygen absorbers and vacuum seal if possible
- Ensure food is thoroughly dried before sealing
- Label contents and date sealed on each bag
- Inspect closely for holes, tears before filling
- Fill carefully to minimize air inside the bag
- Double-bag for extra protection if needed
- Store sealed bags in cool, dry, dark places
- Check periodically for damage or deflation
If small holes or tears occur in a bag, these can be patched with duct tape or Mylar tape on both sides to retain the airtight seal.
Long Term Food Storage Choices
Some foods well-suited for long term Mylar bag storage include:
- Hard grains like rice, wheat, barley, or beans
- Dried pasta, oats, and cereal
- Dehydrated fruits and vegetables
- Nuts, seeds, and nut butters
- Powdered milk, eggs, or cheese
- Freeze dried meats and TVP
- Granola, energy bars, and trail mixes
These foods have lower moisture content and longer shelf lives, making them ideal for Mylar bag storage lasting 5-10+ years.
Potential Drawbacks of Mylar
While very useful, Mylar bags do have some potential drawbacks to be aware of:
- Puncture or tears can compromise the airtight barrier
- Oxygen absorbers can cause bags to deflate over time
- Rodents can chew through bag if not thick enough
- Must be properly sealed or food can still spoil
- Opening a bag lets oxygen in, limiting reusability
- Mylar does not biodegrade easily like plastic
Alternatives to Mylar for Food Storage
There are other options besides Mylar bags for long-term food storage:
- Vacuum sealed mason jars - glass jars are impervious to rodents, reusable
- Food-grade plastic buckets - sturdy buckets protect against crushing
- PETE plastic containers - transparent for seeing contents, recyclable
- Vacuum sealing bags - compress food to remove air
- Oxygen absorber packets - can be added to any container
- Heavy duty zipper bags - thicker plastic resists punctures
- Plastic containers with gasket lids - snap-tight seal, reusable
- Metal cans or drums - very durable, rodent-proof, but heavy
- Sealing food in Mylar then placing in buckets - extra protection
Each method has pros and cons to weigh when planning long term food storage. Mylar bags provide the optimum air and moisture barrier if properly stored and sealed.
Conclusion
Mylar bags are a versatile, durable tool for long-term food storage. They create an airtight, waterproof, pest-proof storage environment. Proper sealing and preventing punctures is key for maximum effectiveness. Mylar has advantages over other storage methods but also some drawbacks. For preppers, Mylar bags are an essential item to build up food reserves and emergency supplies. With proper use, they can help you be prepared for any situation. WeLovePrepping.com offers a wide selection of quality Mylar bags and survival gear to meet your prepping needs.
