Storing Foods Tips
Read these 8 Storing Foods Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Food Preservation tips and hundreds of other topics.
Date Labels
It's a good idea to put masking tape labels on your frozen foods, unless you like playing "dinner roulette" and are willing to take a chance on what might be behind the wrapping. Labels are also necessary for dating the food you freeze. While freezers will keep food for long periods, they won't keep forever.
Dry Foods
Molds, yeast and bacteria need water to grow. When foods are sufficiently dehydrated (dried), microorganisms cannot grow and foods will not spoil. Dried fruits and fruit leathers may be used as snack foods; dried vegetables may be added to soups, stews or casseroles. Campers and hikers value dried foods for their light weight, keeping qualities and ease of preparation.
Economics of Preserving
The initial cost of food preservation can be high---canning jars, canning kettle, pressure canners, drying equipment and other things. However, often these items can be found at garage sales and on-line shopping sites for a reasonable price. Just go into it a little at a time, and make sure that your money will be well-invested by your using it year after year.
Economics Of Preserving
Putting up your own food can be both healthy and economical, with just a little planning. Of course, economy aside, sometimes you just choose to preserve because it tastes so good.
Rice
From Senior Guru, Mike. I buy my rice (long grain Royal Bas-mati Rice - about 10 pounds)
from Sams Club or a Middle East market. Comes in a burlap bag with zipper on top front and handles. Inside is plastic bag with the rice. I can hang this in my pantry, and whether it lasts a couple months or 10 months, I have NEVER had an infestation of bugs in my rice; packaging is so handy. When bag is emptied, it makes a great, handy tote for anyone
Storing Bananas
If you don't plan to use bananas right away, buy less-ripe ones or a few of each. Heat and air causes bananas to ripen. They can be stored at room temperature, but the warmer it is the faster they will ripen.
Pasteurization
Pasteurization is a process that can involve freezing or dry heating. Pasteurization is used to kill any eggs laid on the food while it is outside.
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