1. Mylar Magic in the Kitchen: Food Storage Reimagined

The Preservation Solution: The kitchen is the heart of any home, and effective food storage is key to keeping your pantry organized and ingredients fresh. Habitual Heart Mylar Bags are game-changers in this domain.

a) Gather Supplies: Stock up on Habitual Heart Mylar Bags in various sizes to accommodate different quantities of food items. You’ll also need an oxygen absorber for each bag, a heat sealer, and a permanent marker.

b) Prep the Bags: Place the food items you wish to store in the Mylar Bags. Remember, dry goods like rice, pasta, and grains work best.

c) Add the Oxygen Absorber: Drop one oxygen absorber into each bag to remove any residual oxygen that could cause spoilage.

d) Seal the Deal: Use a heat sealer to close the bags tightly. This prevents moisture, air, and pests from compromising your food items.

e) Label and Store: Mark the contents and date on each bag using a permanent marker. Now you’re ready to store them in your pantry or a cool, dark place.

2. Beauty in Bathroom Organization: Mylar Bags for Cosmetics

A Glamorous Solution: The bathroom, by nature, can be a wet and damp place, making it a pretty poor place to keep cosmetics and many other common bathroom items. Whether skincare essentials or makeup items, Habitual Heart Mylar Bags offer a sleek and efficient way to keep everything organized and protected.

a) Select Your Products: Decide which cosmetics you want to store in Mylar Bags. These can range from face powders and palettes to lipsticks, eyeliners, and even items like cotton swabs and feminine hygiene products.

b) Clean and Dry: Ensure the items are clean and dry before placing them in the bags.

c) Arrange and Seal: Neatly arrange the products in the Mylar Bags, grouping similar items together. Use the zipper seal for items you will access frequently, or heat seal the products for longer-term storage. These items often do not require an oxygen absorber.

d) Label for Ease: Use adhesive labels to mark each bag with the type of products it contains. This will help you quickly locate what you need.

3. Garage Goals: Preparedness with Mylar Bags for Camping and Survival Gear

The Preparedness Arsenal: The garage often houses outdoor equipment, camping gear, and survival essentials. Mylar Bags can be your trusty companions in maintaining the integrity of these items, ensuring they’re ready when you need them.

a) Assess Your Gear: Sort through your camping and survival gear to identify items that can benefit from added protection. This might include matches, batteries, first aid supplies, and non-perishable foods.

b) Organize and Store: Place the items in Habitual Heart Mylar Bags, organizing them into categories. Remember to add an oxygen absorber to food-related bags.

c) Secure and Label: Seal the bags securely to prevent any moisture ingress. Label each bag with its contents for easy identification.

d) Ready for Action: Store your Mylar-protected gear in a dry and easily accessible area of your garage. This way, you’ll always be ready for impromptu adventures or emergency situations.

4. Green Thumb Delight: Mylar Bags for Garden Enthusiasts

Nurturing Nature’s Bounty: For those with a passion for gardening, maintaining the quality of your garden supplies and preserving your harvests is essential. Habitual Heart Mylar Bags come to the rescue again, offering a versatile solution to keep your garden-related items fresh and your hard-earned harvests well-preserved.

a) Seed Storage: Every successful garden starts with quality seeds. To ensure they remain viable for planting seasons to come, consider utilizing Mylar Bags.

• Prepare the Bags: Choose the appropriate size of Habitual Heart Mylar Bags for your seed quantities. You can segregate different types of seeds into separate bags for easy access.
• Include Desiccants: Place a desiccant packet in each Mylar Bag to absorb any excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
• Seal with Care: Using a heat sealer, carefully seal the Mylar Bags to create an airtight environment that keeps out moisture and maintains seed viability.
• Label and Store: Label each bag with the type of seeds enclosed and the date. Store the bags in a cool, dark place to maintain their longevity.

b) Soil Amendment Sanctuary: Garden enthusiasts know the value of quality soil amendments. These additives can significantly enhance soil health and plant growth. To ensure they remain effective:

• Bag Selection: Opt for larger Habitual Heart Mylar Bags to accommodate quantities of soil amendments like compost, vermiculite, or perlite.
• Dry and Cool: Ensure that the soil amendments are completely dry before placing them in the Mylar Bags. Moisture can lead to clumping and reduce their effectiveness.
• Add Oxygen Absorbers: To maintain the quality of your amendments, consider adding an oxygen absorber to each bag before sealing.
• Airtight Seal: Seal the bags securely to prevent moisture from seeping in and compromising the amendments’ quality.
• Storage Tips: Store these Mylar-protected bags in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. This will ensure that your soil amendments retain their efficacy for future gardening endeavors.

c) Harvest Preservation: After enjoying a bountiful garden harvest, you might find yourself with surplus produce. Mylar Bags can play a pivotal role in preserving your harvest through methods like dehydration and freeze-drying:

• Preparation: Dehydrate or freeze-dry your fruits and vegetables as desired, removing as much moisture as possible.
• Mylar Bags for Preservation: Place the dehydrated or freeze-dried items in appropriately sized Mylar Bags. These bags will protect your produce from moisture, air, and light, which can lead to spoilage.
• Oxygen Absorbers: Depending on the contents of the bags, consider adding oxygen absorbers to prevent any residual oxygen from affecting the quality of your preserved harvests.
• Sealing and Labeling: Seal the Mylar Bags carefully using a heat sealer. Don’t forget to label the bags with the type of produce and the date of preservation.
• Storage Solutions: Store your well-sealed Mylar Bags of preserved harvests in a dry, cool environment. When the time comes to use them, you’ll be greeted with the flavors of your garden, no matter the season.

5. Paws and Hooves: Mylar Bags for Pet Care and Livestock

Caring for Your Companions: Our furry friends, whether household pets or farm animals deserve the best care possible. Habitual Heart Mylar Bags can extend their nourishment and well-being through effective storage solutions. Here’s how Mylar Bags can make pet care and livestock management more efficient:

a) Pet Food Storage and Treats:

Pet Food Preservation: Just like human food, pet food can also benefit from Mylar Bags’ protective qualities.

• Choose the Right Size: Select the appropriate size of Mylar Bags for your pet’s food quantity.
• Add an Oxygen Absorber: To maintain freshness, include an oxygen absorber before sealing the bag.
• Seal Airtight: Use a heat sealer to close the Mylar Bag securely, keeping out moisture and contaminants.
• Label with Care: Clearly label the bag with the type of pet food and the date of storage.

Treats with a Twist: Extend the shelf life of pet treats using the same method. Keep them crispy and delicious with Mylar Bags.

b) Livestock Management:

Feed Storage for Livestock: For those managing livestock, feed quality is paramount. Mylar Bags offer a reliable solution.

• Bulk Feed Protection: Use larger Mylar Bags for storing bulk livestock feed. This prevents moisture and pests from affecting the feed quality.
• Oxygen Absorbers: Include oxygen absorbers to maintain the feed’s nutritional integrity.
• Seal Securely: Utilize a heat sealer to create an airtight seal that safeguards the feed’s freshness.

Medicinal Management: Keep essential medicines for your livestock safe from environmental factors using Mylar Bags.

c) General Dry Goods for Pets:

Personalized Storage: Mylar Bags are versatile for storing various dry goods your pets might need.

• Toys and Bedding: Store pet toys, bedding (like straw or wood shavings), and accessories in Mylar Bags to protect them from dust, moisture, and pests.
• Hygiene Supplies: Keep hygiene supplies like kitty litter, pet wipes, and grooming tools organized and well-preserved.

d) Labeling and Maintenance:

Labeling for Clarity: Label each Mylar Bag with its contents and storage date. This practice ensures easy identification and rotation.

Longevity and Durability: Habitual Heart Mylar Bags’ durable nature means they can handle the rough-and-tumble nature of pet care, whether it’s in a household setting or on the farm.

Incorporating Habitual Heart Mylar Bags into different areas of your home can transform your organization and preparedness game. Whether in the kitchen, bathroom, garage, garden, or with pets, these versatile bags bring convenience and peace of mind, ensuring your essentials stay fresh, protected, and ready for use. Embrace the Habitual Heart way and elevate your home organization to new heights!

This is a question with so many correct answers because it is based on your individual goal. How many people are you storing food for? How long would you like your stockpile to last? How much do these people eat? Which foods are you planning on storing?

It’s nearly impossible to answer, but it is possible to give some guidelines and some examples.

Habitual Heart Mylar Bag Kits are designed to provide a variety of bag sizes, ideal for common storage items in common package sizes. (Check out this article for more on that.) And to get a general idea of what you might need, let’s look at a scenario. 

Scenario: one person aiming to have 2000 calories daily for a month-long emergency. Let’s assume that we can store most of these dry items in mylar. Here’s how you could use the 100-bag kit (30 gallon bags, 40 quart bags, 30 half-pint bags).

Grains and Cereals:

• 5 quart size bags = 10-15 lbs of rice
• 5 quart size bags = 5-8 lbs of pasta
• 3 gallon size bags = 15-20 lbs of flour
• 2 quart size bags = 2-3 lbs of oatmeal or other hot cereals
• 2 gallon size bags = 2-3 lbs of cereal

Legumes and Beans:

• 4 quart size bags = 5-8 lbs of dry beans (such as black beans, pinto beans, or lentils)

Canned Foods (or Freeze-Dried Equivalents):

• 3 gallon size bags = 10-15 cans of canned vegetables (such as green beans, corn, or peas) or 1-2 #10 cans of freeze-dried vegetables
• 3 gallon size bags = 10-15 cans of canned fruits (such as peaches, pears, or fruit cocktail) or 1-2 #10 cans of freeze-dried fruits
• 5 quart size bags = 10-15 cans of canned meat or fish (such as tuna, chicken, or salmon) or 1-2 #10 cans of freeze-dried meat or fish
• 5 quart size bags = 10-15 cans of canned soup or chili or 1-2 #10 cans of freeze-dried soup or chili

Dry Goods:

• 10 half-pint size bags = 2-3 lbs of powdered peanut butter or other nut butter
• 1 gallon size bags = 2-3 lbs of nuts or trail mix
• 3 quart size bags = 2-3 lbs of crackers or other snacks
• 1 gallon size bag = 2-3 lbs of granola or other snack bars

Beverages:

• 30-45 liters of bottled water (aim for at least 1 gallon per day)
• 1 gallon size bag = 5 lbs powdered milk
• 5 half-pint bags = 10-15 packets of powdered drink mix (such as Gatorade or Crystal Light)

Other:

• 5 half-pint bags = 1-2 lbs of salt
• 10 half-pint bags = 1-2 lbs of seasoning/spices
• 1 quart size bag = 0.5-1 lbs of sugar
• 0.25-0.5 gallons of cooking oil

In total, this scenario uses about 2/3s of the 100-bag kit in the form of 14 gallon bags, 29 quart bags, and 30 half-pint bags. This scenario is a generous calorie allotment and does not consider other sources of food and storage methods. If those factors are considered, you could use the whole 100-bag kit and store enough for 2 adults for one month.

That being said, they have to be used correctly to get the benefit, and they are not the most user-friendly if you don’t have these tips at the ready. So here are eight tips to get the most from your oxygen absorbers.

1. DON’T open the packaging until you are ready to seal your container.

This had to be said first because as exciting as it is to open your new Habitual Heart Mylar Bag Kit, please, please, please don’t open the sealed packets of oxygen absorbers until the last minute. They are packaged in small quantities to preserve freshness. Oxygen absorbers go to work as soon as they hit oxygen and do their best work in the first few hours. Leaving a package open with no job to do will “expire” the oxygen absorbers, and they will not work as well or at all, depending on how long they have been exposed.

2. Not everything needs an Oxygen Absorber.

Sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda are the top four food items that do not need an oxygen absorber for long-term storage. An oxygen absorber will turn these foods into bricks, so unless you have a chisel ready, it’s best to skip the oxygen absorber. More importantly, moist and fatty foods are not good candidates for mylar bag storage with oxygen absorbers. Anything over 10% moisture should be avoided not to create an anaerobic environment ideal for bacteria like botulism. Freeze-dried fruit is a great candidate for mylar bags, but partially dried fruit (like a prune) should be avoided. Similar to a bloated can, or a popped lid on a jar, a bulging mylar bag is a sign it is no longer good.

3. Choose the right size and number of oxygen absorbers.

When it comes to oxygen absorbers, size matters. Not the size of the actual oxygen absorber but the volume of oxygen it will absorb, which is measured in Cubic Centimeters (CC). You need to choose the right size and number of oxygen absorbers for the amount of food you’re storing. Oxygen absorbers come in different sizes, ranging from 50cc to 2000cc. The rule of thumb is to use one 300cc oxygen absorber for every gallon of food. Be sure to use the right number of oxygen absorbers to ensure that all the oxygen is absorbed from the bag. It is not a problem to use more CCs than are needed, but underusing could result in a less-than-optimal storage environment. Habitual Heart Kits include 130 300cc oxygen absorbers. This is more than enough for 1 per bag. The additional 30 more are intended for the flexibility to double up on the 1-gallon bags, reuse bags, or use them elsewhere in your food storage needs.

4. Check and Seal the Mylar bag.

It’s always a good idea to inspect your bag before filling it. Check for damage and holes that would impact its ability to create an airtight seal after heat sealing. Mylar bags with a zipper seal are great for items you are not storing long-term. The zipper also comes in handy to hold the bag closed for heat sealing in any position. A zipper WILL NOT give you an airtight seal so you must heat seal if you want your oxygen absorbers to work to their maximum capacity for a truly extended shelf life. Similarly, oxygen absorbers can not be reused. The extra oxygen absorbers included in the Habitual Heart Mylar Bag Kit are there if you need to reuse a bag (intentionally or due to user error).

5. Manually remove air.

Manually removing air before you heat seal is one of the best ways to make the oxygen absorbers work as efficiently as possible. To do this, add your oxygen absorber and close the zipper 3/4ths of the way. Then gently push the majority of the air out of the bag before closing the zipper completely. Finish with a heat seal. You can take similar actions if you are using oxygen absorbers with vacuum-sealed bags and jars.

6. Use the assembly line technique.

When getting ready to seal any container you are using oxygen absorbers on, try the assembly line technique. Do every part of the process you can first, like inspecting, filling, labeling, etc. When you are ready for sealing, line up all containers and quickly open and place oxygen absorbers before sealing immediately. This limits the exposure oxygen absorbers have between their sealed packaging and your sealed container. If you have the Habitual Heart Mylar Bag Kit, try to work in groups of 10 to match how oxygen absorbers are packaged by 10s.

7. Store extra absorbers.

If you have extra oxygen absorbers, quickly place them into a small airtight container to reduce exposure. The best containers are ½ pint glass jars with gasket seals, vacuum-seal bags, or another mylar bag (small and heat-sealed).

8. Store Mylar bags properly.

Once you’ve sealed the Mylar bag with the oxygen absorbers inside, you need to store it properly. Keep the bag in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. The ideal temperature for storing food in Mylar bags is between 50°F and 70°F. Avoid storing the bags in places like the garage, attic, or basement, where the temperature and humidity levels can fluctuate. Most Mylar users go on to store bags in food-safe containers for additional protection against rodents as well as ease of transportation. Habitual Heart Mylar bags are designed with rounded edges so as not to puncture other bags when stored together. If you have ever got a paper cut, wait until you get a Mylar cut (ouch!). Make sure to look for rounded corners when shopping for Mylar bags. 

Using oxygen absorbers with Mylar bags is an effective way to prolong the shelf life of food. By following these tips, you can ensure that your food stays fresh and safe for a long time. Remember to choose the right size and number of oxygen absorbers, seal the Mylar bag properly, store it in a cool, dry, and dark place, and work fast to ensure effectiveness. With these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of long-term food storage with Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers.

A prepared pantry means having anywhere from three to six months of storage for your everyday items. Everyday items include food, toiletries, consumables, paper goods, medications, etc. If I were to enter into a no-spend period, that would mean that I would be depleting my storage. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t touch your storage. No! Please cycle through your items to ensure everything stays fresh, but you should always be replenishing. It wouldn’t be great to have a natural disaster hit at the end of your no-spend pantry challenge when you’re coming down to odds and ends and “getting creative.” a  No-spend challenge also restricts you from stocking up on a good deal. What’s the point of doing the challenge if you make tons of exceptions? 

Budgeting and being prepared come hand in hand. It needs to be a lifestyle, not a fad diet. It’s proactive to always be on the lookout for discounts on your everyday product and be working on and restocking your stockpile. Don’t misinterpret that to spend over and buy more than you can afford or consume before it expires, and certainly don’t just buy something because it is a good price. Once you get to a month’s worth of supplies, it’s wise to slow down and make purchases only when you find affordable prices.

Part of what allows this mindset of only shopping sales is the ability to store your items, especially food, properly. Six things that have made it possible for us are (in order of lowest cost to investments) mylar bags, a vacuum sealer, a pressure canner, a dehydrator, a deep freezer, and a freeze dryer.  All of these items give you more control over food preservation and extend the shelf-life of foods. A good example is flour. If you were to buy a large 25 lb bag of flour (and you’re not a baker), the chances of you using that whole bag in six months or before some other pest found its way into the original packaging is slim to none. But suppose you were to package that up into mylar bags, you are extending the shelf life up to 20 years, eliminating the concern of expiration dates and allowing you to make larger, budget-driven purchases without worry.

The scarcity mindset is the other worry you eliminate by not subscribing to no-spend challenges. If you feel restricted, chances are you start your energy on what you can’t have. If you have ever been on a diet, you know that donuts taunt you, and everything sounds better than the salad in front of you. Many people spend their no-spend challenge creating lists of everything they want to buy when the challenge is over. What is the point if you are on an overly restrictive grocery budget this month, only to blow your average budget next month? If you deplete your stockpile this month only to feel uneasy and anxiously restock (regardless of prices) next month, you’re doing more harm to your budget and mindset than any no-spend challenge can help.

No-spend challenges have very limited uses in a budget. They should be seen as habit breakers/makers vs. savings strategies because unless you improve a habit on the other side of the challenge, you probably create worse habits in the long run on top of the stress a no-spend challenge inherently has. 

I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Are there any no-spend challenges that helped you, or are you leaving them behind? What are your favorite budgeting tricks?

Habitual Heart is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Here is a list of common grocery items that fit just right into the gallon, quart, and ½ pint Habitual Heart Mylar bags:

Gallon

• 5 Lb bag of Flour
• 5 Lb bag of Sugar
• 5 Lb bag of Rice
• 3-4 packs of Spaghetti/Pasta
• 42 oz can of Oatmeal (rolled oats)

Quart

• 1 Lb (16oz) bag of Beans
• 1 Lb (16oz) bag of Rice
• 16 oz bag of small shaped pasta
• 24 oz of Grits (Polenta)
• Baking mixes (ex. cake or brownies)
• 1 lb box of Baking Soda
• 2 8 oz cans of Baking Powder

½ Pint

• Spice Jar
• Seasoning Pack
• Packs of Candy (ex. M&Ms, Skittles)
• Single packs of instant oatmeal (great for go bags)
• Pudding or Jello mixes

These are just some of the easy-fit items. The variety of sizes is meant to give you control over packaging for your intended use case and allow you to decide how you’re going to fill 100 bags.

According to eatwheat.org, the average American eats 130lb of wheat flour products yearly. With the gallon size alone, you can store over 150 lbs of flour for your household. Whether you are prepping for three weeks, six months, or a year, start with one Mylar Bag Kit and aim to build your stockpile with extras added to your weekly grocery trips. If you are aiming for a year worth of food for your family, you will want to store about one kit per person in addition to your canned and frozen food items. And always remember only to store what you buy. The goal is to eat this food, emergency or not, and keep cycling your stockpile.

Let me know if you have found any other “perfect fits” in the comments below, or tag me on Instagram @habitual.heart

Here’s what this article covers:

1. The current state of the food system and how it’s affecting people around the world
2. Tips on how to increase your own food security in times of shortages
3. Ways to help others who are struggling to find enough to eat
4. How can we work together to create a more sustainable and equitable food system?

1. The current state of the food system and how it’s affecting people around the world

With shortages spurring stockpiling and empty shelves becoming commonplace in supermarkets across the globe, the current state of our food system has definitely taken a hit. We’re seeing this on all fronts. Dining out has become a true luxury, with not only food prices driving up costs but the increasing costs of labor in a shrinking labor pool. At the grocery store, we see prices increase (or value decrease) due to supply chain issues, supply and demand inequalities, disease (think eggs and lettuce), war and conflict, natural disasters, and sometimes corporate greed. While it’s hard to know what exactly the future holds for this pressing issue, we know that it will continue to be an issue. It’s more important than ever that we look toward sustainable solutions so everyone can continue having access to safe and healthy food. Food security is a leading concern for everyone, from global leaders to local communities. It’s not just about alleviating hunger and providing relief; it’s also about achieving sustainable and regenerative solutions where everyone has equitable access to reliable and safe sources of nutrition.

2. Tips on how to increase your own food security in times of shortages

I believe that food security starts with reducing waste and learning about proper food storage. Feeding America states, “Each year, 119 billion pounds of food is wasted in the United States. That equates to 130 billion meals and more than $408 billion in food thrown away each year. Shockingly, nearly 40% of all food in America is wasted.” While not all food waste is unavoidable, a majority is, and it’s on us as consumers to not contribute to the problem but also insist our suppliers take on this goal as part of their ethics code.

The next step is to ensure that all food entering your home is properly stored until you can consume it. You will want to look at short-term and long-term food storage options. Mastering your long-term food storage simultaneously sets you up for emergencies like food shortages or natural disasters where food will not be readily available. During times of shortages, it’s important to set yourself up first by making sure your pantry is stocked with long-lasting goods so you don’t run out when disruptions occur. Always “put on your mask first” when it comes to preparing for food shortages or emergencies. We will talk about how to support others next, but setting yourself up first actually helps the larger community by not becoming a burden on local or government resources so first responders can focus on truly at-need members.

Start a garden and learn to forage. While having a full-blown, self-sustaining garden is not possible for most of us, anything you can grow not only lessens your reliance on the food system but also gives you a little more knowledge on how to grow your own food. Even if you are starting with a windowsill basil plant, try it! Edible food is all around us. Even if you are not ready or willing to eat food you find growing in the wild, foraging and plant identification are great skills to have.

Another great way to increase your own food security is by supporting local farmers and ranchers as much as possible. The goods they provide are fresh, often organic, and don’t require long-distance shipping or transportation costs. Because they are operating at a smaller scale, often the global implications to our food systems are a non-issue. Supporting them in times of bounty ensures they can continue to provide to the local community in times of need.

Ultimately, whether it be reducing waste, preparing in advance, or taking advantage of local resources, there are many ways you can increase your own food security in times of food shortages.

3. Ways to help others who are struggling to find enough to eat

Finding food for yourself and your family can be a challenge, but for some, it’s an even bigger problem. If you want to help those who are struggling to find enough to eat, there are several things you can do. First, donate food and other essentials to food banks in your local area. Regarding food shopping, be mindful of others – don’t stockpile more than necessary, as this creates a shortage and limits the amount available for everyone else. I recommend building your supply fast enough that you feel secure but slow enough to be mindful and find cost savings. Maybe buy two or three extra of your shelf-stable favorites this next grocery trip (aim to be prepared for three weeks) and then one more on subsequent trips until you feel you are set for six months. You could also start sharing tips on how best to make meals stretch further or encourage others to start using food stamps or food banks where appropriate. If you are a pro at shopping sales, why not set aside some donations in your budget as well? If you have a garden and any surplus, offer it to local food banks or on your local buy-nothing groups. You can also support local community gardens that work to feed the community. No one should worry about food insecurity; together, we can use our resources to get food to those who need it most.

4. How can we work together to create a more sustainable and equitable food system

We can create a more sustainable and equitable food system by returning to local, grassroots-level efforts. Investing in sustainable farming practices, encouraging diversified harvests, eating seasonally, and providing access to nutritious foods to all communities are essential steps toward achieving healthier food systems that all can enjoy. Additionally, educating ourselves and future generations about the importance of local farms and teaching them tools related to cooking and gardening for self-sufficiency offers a long-term solution to ensure a healthy planet for generations. Finally, reducing food waste is paramount. Even local food can be wasted, and we have to start with the crux of the issue before we waste the effort of fixing the larger system.

Conclusion

It’s time to start thinking about food security. With climate change, weather patterns are becoming more extreme and unpredictable, droughts and floods are occurring more often, and crop yields are decreasing; we can no longer believe that the existing system of monocultures will be sustainable. That means that we could see more food shortages in the future. By preparing now, we can increase our own food security and help protect ourselves and our families against hunger. Here are some things you can do: shop (and grow) local – supporting your local farmers helps ensure a steady supply of fresh locally grown food; be prepared – understand your family’s needs and work towards your own preparedness goals, removing yourself from those who act in panic; reduce food waste- according to the UN FAO, “if wasted food was a country it would rank as the world’s third-largest greenhouse gas emitter after China and the United States.” When we waste less food, we put less strain on the environment. These are just a few things you can do to make a difference. We all have a role to play in creating a more sustainable and equitable food system.

Clothing Irons

Clothing irons are the most common heat-sealing option for mylar bags, as they are readily available in homes and are easy to use. To heat-seal with a clothing iron, heat the iron to 400°F (205°C) or find the cotton or linen setting, place two pieces of mylar together or your closed bag, and press the iron on top. Make sure to apply pressure as you move the iron to create an airtight seal. It is important that the bag can lie flat and you are not creating wrinkles as you seal. Use the zipper on Habitual Heart mylar bags to ensure you can lie the bag down without the contents spilling out. Also, please ensure the steam function is not in use.

Impulse Sealers

Impulse sealers are high-heat electric tools designed specifically for heat-sealing mylar bags. They provide a heat level of up to 420°F (215°C), which is more intense than clothing irons, and provide an efficient seal. To heat-seal with an impulse sealer, place two pieces of mylar together and press down the handle to heat-seal the bag shut.

Hair Straighteners/Irons

Hair straighteners or irons are an alternative heat-sealing tool for mylar bags. To heat-seal with a hair iron, heat the iron to a setting as close to 420°F (215°C) and then press down on the bag while running the iron over the seal area. Again, apply pressure as you move the iron along for a secure heat seal. Some like to tap the iron as they move along larger bags. I like this method because not only is it convenient, it is the only method that allows you to seal a bag while it is standing up. With this method, finding a hair straightener with plates that make full contact with each other is very important.

Each heat-sealing method has pros and cons, so it is important to research and determine which heat-sealing tool will work best for your project. With the right tools and technique, heat-sealing mylar bags can be quick and easy.

Following these heat-sealing instructions guarantees a secure heat seal on every mylar bag you use. With the right tools and technique, heat-sealing mylar bags can be a breeze!

Habitual Heart participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

What Are Mylar Bags? 

Mylar bags are made from polyester film, usually with a layer of aluminum foil sandwiched in between. They are often used for packaging consumer goods like dried foods and snacks because they protect the product from moisture, oxygen, light, UV radiation, and even pests. This makes them particularly well-suited for long-term storage and shelf life. 

Are Mylar Bags Toxic? 

The short answer is no. Mylar bags are non-toxic and BPA-free, which means they won’t leach harmful chemicals into your food when stored at room temperature or below. Additionally, the FDA has approved them as safe for use with food products.  Many people use them as an alternative to plastic containers because they are better for the environment than traditional plastic packaging materials like sandwich bags or “Tupperware” and the like. Mylar also offers additional food protection as it is impermeable to oxygen and moisture, keeping food fresh longer than other packaging materials. As with all products, Mylar must be used as intended to maintain these qualities.

How Can I Use Them For Food Storage? 

Mylar bags can be used in a variety of ways when it comes to food storage. They can be used for long-term storage of foods like grains, seeds, nuts, dried fruits, spices, etc., which need extra protection from the elements to stay fresh longer. Additionally, the airtight seal helps maintain the quality of the stored food by preventing contamination and spoilage due to mold or bacteria growth over time. They can also be used for short-term storage with a ziplock seal for easy access compared to creating a heat seal. Whatever your needs may be, Mylar bags are a great choice for food storage! 

In Conclusion

Mylar bags are a great choice for short-term and long-term food storage needs because they offer superior protection against environmental contaminants while being completely non-toxic and BPA-free. Whether you’re looking to store your pantry staples in bulk or protect perishable items from spoiling quickly during transport or storage—Mylar bags provide an effective solution that will help keep your food fresher longer while keeping your family safe!

Make a Plan

Don’t just head over to Costco and throw the largest items you can find into your cart! You have to have a plan. A plan will ensure you get the best deal, not blowing your budget, and save you from throwing away hundreds of dollars worth of expired items.

Budget

Plan to put aside a portion of your grocery and household goods budget monthly. For our family, this is about 20-25%. You won’t need to shop in bulk every month, but you also don’t want shopping in bulk to be an added expense when it should be helping to lower your overall expenses. Pick up a budget template today and see where all your money goes.

Stick to the budget. You don’t need to buy every bulk item all at once. As you run out of goods, prioritize them on your bulk shopping budget. Spread your expenses out to fit your budget and also help ensure you don’t have all your goods set to expire at the same time.

Don’t buy too much

Just because they sell it in bulk doesn’t mean you should buy it in bulk. There are three common sulk shopping traps.

1. Fresh Food
   1. No matter how good the price, it is going to be rare that you have the storage method, space, or appetite to really capitalize on the savings of fresh produce or meat. Read on for tips to make that assessment for yourself.
2. Food You Don’t Eat or Don’t Eat Enough Of
   1. You probably don’t need five dozen eggs for your family of three or the 50lb bag of peanuts when you have an allergy. Again, a good deal is not a good deal for all.
3. Overestimating how much you need.
   1. We do not waste food here at Habitual Heart. Not only would you be wasting food and the cost associated if you overbuy, but you’re also letting that food take up valuable real estate in your pantry and mind. Don’t underestimate that cost. If a deal is too good, but the quantity is too much, reach out to a friend or family member to see if they will split the haul.

Know how to store your bulk buys

Two keys to being able to buy in bulk are knowing how to store items properly as well as having the space to store them correctly.

Let’s take meat, for example. Meat is highly perishable and is primarily stored in limited quantities because of limited cold storage. In the refrigerator, you are looking at a week, and the deep freezer will get you 4-12 months. Also, keep in mind that this storage is not free. There is a real cost to running large appliances like these. There are options to can, dehydrate, or freeze-dry certain meats, but this requires skills, time, and equipment. Keep this in mind as you make your purchases, and do not buy what you do not have the space or skills to store.

Taking the extra steps to ensure proper storage means less food loss or waste. A good example here is flour. My family of three uses about five pounds of flour a month, but I bulk buy it in two 10-pound bags. If I were to leave it in the original packaging, I’m risking pest infestation and exposure to air and moisture(=spoilage). Within a few days of purchase, I refill the airtight container in my pantry and divide the rest into Mylar bags. Both my pantry container and the Mylar bags perfectly fit five pounds so working my way through the flour without running a high risk of food loss is easy.

Storing dry goods in Mylar also extends the shelf life. Flour can last 10-15 years, well past the best-by dates on original packaging (Who decided that a paper bag was good enough for storing flour?…sus if you ask me). This extra step reduces the risk of food waste and loss but also sets our home up for emergency preparedness in that we have extra, shelf-stable food on hand in sufficient quantities for something unexpected. 

There are tons of products out there that help store food for longer, from simple methods like airtight containers and Mylar bags to canning, dehydrating, freezing, and freeze-drying. Each takes its own mastery and cost investment. I will go into this further in another article but just know these products and skills can significantly increase the shelf life of most foods and therefore make bulk purchases even more cost-effective. 

How to get a good deal

Now that you have navigated the pitfalls of buying in bulk let’s make sure you get a good deal. If you learn nothing else from this article, please learn how to compare costs properly. Sticker price alone is not the way to go. You need to be looking at COST PER UNIT.

You probably already do this in reverse when you shop for meat. You take a look at two packages of chicken breast, and you see that one is $7.43 and one is $6.89. If you compare by price, you might think that the less expensive one is the better deal when, in fact, they are priced at $3.99 per pound and the exact same deal.

Most stores make this easy if you take the time to look at the price tag on the shelf. Get in close and look at the unit cost and compare. Also, ensure the units are the same, ounces to ounces, pounds to pounds, packages to packages, etc. If the cost per unit is not displayed, whip out your calculator and divide the price of the item by the units measured, which should be on the front packaging or on the nutritional label. The more you practice price comparison, the quicker you will be able to find good deals. I personally don’t buy canned tomatoes unless it is better than $.68 a can in my area.

Here is a quick list of categories where you can usually find the best bulk shopping deals.

Grocery

• Cereal
• Oatmeal
• Canned vegetables and fruit
• Soup
• Rice, grains, and pasta
• Beans (canned and dried)
• Frozen food (veggies, fruit, meat, prepared foods) *limited by storage space
• Crackers, cookies, chips
• Nuts
• Sweeteners (Sugar, Honey, Maple)
• Flours
• Spices and extracts
• Coffee & Tea

Household Consumables

• Toilet paper (not shown to have significant savings)
• Paper goods (Paper towels, napkins, paper plates, and bowls)
• Coffee filters
• Laundry or dish detergent
• Cleaning supplies
• Sponges
• Trash bags
• Foil, plastic wrap, parchment paper, plastic storage bags
• Lightbulbs
• Batteries
• Tape

Beauty and Self-Care Products

• Soap
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Lotion
• Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss
• Cotton balls, rounds, or swabs
• Contraception (check expiration dates)
• Feminine hygiene Items
• Pain medicine
• Vitamins (check shelf life)
• Over-the-counter allergy medicine
• Bandaids and wound care
• Hand sanitizer or Rubbing alcohol
• Antibacterial wipes

Baby Goods

• Baby food and snacks
• Baby formula (dry is best)
• Powdered Milk
• Baby wipes
• Diapers

Pet Products

• Pet food
• Dog waste bags
• Cat litter

We bought a home in 2021 and are finally able to have the garden we have always wanted, and we are growing more food than we ever thought possible. We’ve got canning and dehydrating down, but getting through what we were able to store within their shelf life is sometimes difficult. So I began researching alternative methods for long-term food storage, and I fell deep down the rabbit hole… so deep I ended up in deep space or maybe the deep woods and stumbled upon the Mylar bags. Remember astronaut ice cream and beef stew in a bag? That stuff.

Along with Mylar bags, you will discover the freeze dryer. Unfortunately, a freeze dryer can run up into the multiple thousands and is not quite in the budget just yet, BUT that didn’t stop me. What I noticed after the sticker shock of a freeze dryer was the packaging (Mylar), and I’m surprised I never noticed it before. Our food and other common household items are packaged in Mylar bags.

What is Mylar?

Hang with me while we get technical for a second. Mylar is Biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate which is a polyester film made from stretched polyethylene terephthalate. It is strong, stable, clear, and acts as a gas and odor barrier, all of which have made it a favorite of the food industry. Typically Mylar is coated over other strong or attractive materials like aluminum or craft paper to add strength or style, but the main reason the food industry loves it is that it acts as a barrier. Oxygen and moisture are the enemies of food, and Mylar keeps both out. Most foods are not the ideal candidates for long-term storage because of oil or moisture, but Mylar can help get that expiration date to a year. So why aren’t most foods packaged in Mylar? Unless you are shopping at an emergency preparedness shop (do those exist? probably) or your local outdoor and recreation store, you will not see much packaged for long-term intent. Why? Cause money. Mylar is a more expensive packaging, and companies want you to go through their items (or let them expire) and come back and buy more.

Which foods can be stored long-term?

A lot of items’ shelf-life can be extended in a Mylar bag (with an oxygen absorber), but the general rule of thumb is that the more moisture or oil a food contains, the worse candidate it is for long-term food storage. I’m going to skip the less-than-a-year items and get to the (incomplete) list of cool stuff.

3 – 5 years:

5 – 10 years:

• Alfalfa
• Granolas (without fruit or added oils)
• Herbs (whole)
• Millet
• Most Beans (some longer – see below)
• Quinoa
• Peppercorns (whole)
• Peanut butter powder
• Powdered milk (semi-skimmed)
• Powdered egg (freeze-dried)
• Rye
• Unbleached flour
• Wheat flakes

20 – 30 years

• Coffee (instant)
• Freeze-dried fruit and vegetables
• Hulled oats
• Kidney beans
• Lentils
• Lima beans
• Noodles
• Pasta
• Pink beans
• Powdered milk (skimmed)
• Rolled oats
• Tea (bags or loose)
• White rice

Indefinitely:

So now what?

Exciting stuff, right? Now to take action. We’re not afraid of buying those 10lb bags of flour anymore, and I’m way more prepared and excited to dehydrate items from our garden this year. I’m also trying my hand at seed saving this season, and I will pack them in Mylar for next spring. 

Have you tried Mylar bags before? Let me know more about your experience and how you use them in your household in the comments.