10 Simple Ways To Safely Store Food
Storing foods can present its own set of problems. And different types of foods have different storage requirements to prevent bacteria from setting in. Here's some tips to protect your family and yourself.
Storing Vegetables
1....
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Buying in Bulk
Shoppers have enjoyed the convenience of buying in bulk for a number of years. My own bulk buying experiences have been hit and miss at best, but I recently discovered just how convenient buying in bulk can be.
There are a number of advantages to buying in bulk:
- some items are available only in bulk
- you can choose the quantity
- bulk prices are usually less than packaged prices
- less packaging
- less additives and preservatives when you make your own meals and mixes
- more variety
- often healthy alternatives not always otherwise available
When you buy in bulk it's a good idea to get your cupboards in order. There are a number of ways you can store bulk items:
- recycled plastic containers and glass jars
- Rubbermaid or Ziploc containers (4 4-cup Ziploc containers cost less than $2)
- resealable bags
- for some items (e.g. oatmeal) you can re-use the original container
A key to bulk storage is labeling. Make sure all containers are air-tight and clearly labeled and dated. Bulk items have a long shelf life because they have been prepared with long-term storage in mind.
I've always wondered if bulk items are as fresh as packaged. In my experience bulk items have been very fresh--even
raisins! You'd be amazed at all the things you can buy in bulk. Here's a partial list to get you thinking of the possibilities:
Baking:
- flours
- cornmeal
- spices
- chocolate, carob, peanut butter, butterscotch chips
- raisins
- sugars
Grains:
- granolas
- oats (regular, quick-cooking)
- rice (all kinds)
- cereals (all kinds)
Dried Fruits:
- pineapple
- apricots
- raisins
- papaya
- bananas
- apples
- cranberries
- prunes
- dates
Beans:
- split peas
- navy beans
- pinto beans
- kidney beans
- soy beans
- soup blends
Pasta:
- spaghetti
- lasagna
- elbow macaroni
- egg noodles (all shapes and sizes)
Nuts:
- peanuts
- sunflower seeds
- almonds (whole, slivered)
- walnuts
Vegetables:
- sun-dried tomatoes
- peppers
About the Author
Originally published at Suite 101. Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom who is the author of What's for Dinner?, an e-cookbook containing more than 250 quick easy dinner ideas. For recipes, tips to organize your home, home decorating, crafts, holiday hints, and more, visit Creative Homemaking at http://www.creativehomemaking.com.
