A guide to extending shelf life

Dehydration is one of the oldest and most effective methods of food preservation. By removing moisture from foods, we can significantly extend their shelf life while retaining much of their nutritional value. But how long can dehydrated foods really last? Vacuum-sealed dehydrated food can last up to 10 years, but this duration can vary widely depending on several factors. Let’s break down what influences the longevity of your dehydrated products.

Factors affecting shelf life

Temperature

Higher temperatures can accelerate the breakdown of nutrients and encourage microbial growth, shortening your food’s shelf life. The ideal storage temperature for dehydrated foods is below 70°F (21°C), with 50°F (10°C) being even better. But that’s not all: frequent temperature fluctuations can be just as harmful as constant high temperatures, so consistency is key.

Food type

Different foods have different shelf lives, even when dehydrated. For instance, dehydrated fruits and vegetables can last several years when properly stored, while meats and jerky have a much shorter shelf life at room temperature due to their fat content.

Storage location

The mantra for storing dehydrated foods is “cool, dry, and dark.” Basements or root cellars often provide ideal conditions. If you don’t have access to such spaces, consider using closets or cabinets away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Technique matters

The effectiveness of your dehydration process plays a crucial role in determining shelf life. Home dehydrators, while convenient, may not remove as much moisture as commercial processes. This residual moisture can significantly impact how long your food stays fresh.

Maximizing shelf life

Now that we understand the factors at play, let’s explore some practical tips to help you get the most out of your dehydrated foods:

Thorough dehydration

Ensure your foods are properly dehydrated. They should be crisp and brittle, not pliable.

Vacuum sealing

Use a vacuum sealer to remove as much air as possible. Consider adding oxygen absorbers for an extra layer of protection.

Double bagging

For long-term storage, consider double bagging in heat-sealed Mylar bags.

Rotation

Implement a first-in, first-out system to ensure you’re using your oldest stock first.

Strategic replenishment

Replace your supply when quality foods are most economical and readily available.

Quality over time

While properly dehydrated and stored foods can remain safe to eat for extended periods, it’s important to note that quality changes will occur over time. These changes might affect taste, texture, or nutritional value, potentially making the food less appealing or useful.

Short vs. Long term storage

When it comes to food storage, it’s essential to consider your goals. Are you looking to create a long-term emergency supply, or are you more interested in incorporating dehydrated foods into your regular meal rotation?

For many, a mix of both approaches works well. Consider keeping a portion of your dehydrated foods for short-term use (within 1-5 years) and rotating these into your daily meals. This approach ensures you’re always enjoying your preserved foods at their best quality.

For long-term storage (up to 25 years), focus on foods that store exceptionally well, such as grains, beans, and properly packaged freeze-dried options. However, even with these long-term storage items, regular rotation and quality checks are crucial.

The enemies of food storage

Understanding what can compromise your food storage is half the battle. The main culprits are:

• Temperature: As mentioned earlier, keep it cool!
• Moisture: A dry environment is crucial to prevent mold and decomposition.
• Oxygen: Use oxygen absorbers and vacuum sealing to minimize exposure.
• Light: Store your foods in dark places to prevent nutrient degradation.

Storage containers and methods

Choosing the right storage container can significantly impact the shelf life of your dehydrated foods. Here are some popular options:

• Glass Jars: Ideal for short to medium-term storage, especially when used with vacuum sealing attachments.
• Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Great for removing air and extending shelf life.
• Mylar Bags: Excellent for long-term storage when combined with oxygen absorbers.

The power of vacuum sealing

Vacuum sealing is a game-changer in food preservation. It removes air, which contains moisture and oxygen; two of the biggest enemies of food longevity. Here are some tips for effective vacuum sealing:

• Regularly clean your machine to prevent food particles from interfering with the sealing process.
• Use a paper towel or coffee filter to prevent powders from being sucked into the machine.
• Use glass jars or adjust your vacuum sealer’s settings to prevent crushing delicate items.
• For crisp foods like dehydrated sweet potatoes, consider using a protective inner bag to prevent punctures in the vacuum seal bag.

Embracing innovation in food preservation

While traditional dehydration methods have served us well for centuries, modern technology like REV™ continues to push the boundaries of food preservation.

But innovation doesn’t stop at the technology itself. At EnWave, we’ve taken the technology and made it accessible to businesses of all sizes through our REVworx™ toll drying facility.

REVworx™- Your partner in advanced food processing

REVworx™ is more than just a toll drying facility, it’s a solutions provider for all your advanced dehydration and processing needs. With SQF Level II certification, REVworx™ offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to take your product from concept to shelf-ready in record time.

Here’s what sets REVworx™ apart:

State-of-the-Art facilities

From walk-in refrigeration and freezers to large-scale air dryers and REV™ dryers (both 60kW and 10kW), REVworx™ has the equipment to handle projects of any size.

Versatile Capabilities

Whether you need pre-drying, post-dry seasoning, or custom formulation and recipe batching using our industrial mixer, REVworx™ has you covered.

品質保証

With metal detection capabilities, we ensure the safety and purity of your products.

Packaging Solutions

Our bulk N2 flush packaging and palletization services protect your products during storage and transport.

Consumer-Ready Packaging

Perhaps most importantly, REVworx™ offers consumer retail packaging solutions that not only look great on the shelf but also safely preserve the nutrients and extend the shelf life of your products.

Maximizing the shelf life of dehydrated foods involves a combination of proper techniques, suitable storage conditions, and innovative technology. With REV™ technology and the comprehensive services offered by REVworx™, we’re ushering in a new era of food preservation, one where quality, nutrition, and convenience go hand in hand.

Whether you’re a small startup looking to bring your first product to market or an established brand seeking to innovate your product line, REVworx™ offers the expertise, technology, and packaging solutions to help you succeed. By leveraging these advanced preservation methods and packaging technologies, you can ensure that your products not only last longer but also maintain their nutritional value and taste, giving consumers the high-quality, long-lasting foods they desire.

The future of food preservation is here, and it’s more accessible than ever. Are you ready to revolutionize your product line and extend your reach in the market?  Contact EnWave to explore the possibilities with REVworx™ and take the first step towards a new standard in food preservation and packaging.