Various methods of food preservation have been developed throughout history, each tailored to different types of foods and environmental conditions. Among these methods, dry good food preservation stands out as a particularly effective way to store staple foods such as grains and dried fruits for extended periods without the need for refrigeration. 

Understanding dry goods preservation techniques is key to ensuring food security and sustainability in our ever-changing world.

Home preserved dry goods. Photo by Bethany Beathard 

Historical Perspective

From ancient times to the modern era, societies have used various methods to preserve dry goods like grains and legumes.

In ancient Egypt, the arid climate naturally facilitated the preservation of grains through sun-drying and storage in clay pots or granaries. In medieval Europe, the advent of windmills enabled the grinding of grains into flour, which could then be stored in cool, dry cellars for extended periods. 

As maritime trade expanded during the Age of Exploration, sailors relied on salt-curing and dehydration to preserve provisions for long voyages, paving the way for the global exchange of spices and dried fruits. 

Today, with the advent of modern technology, methods such as freeze-drying and vacuum-sealing that ensure availability and longevity have revolutionized the preservation of dry goods.

Storing dried beans. Photo by Bethany Beathard 

Methods for Preserving Dry Goods

Freeze Dryers

Freeze dryers are becoming a trend in the homestead scene and more and more are popping up on the shelves of local farm supply stores. Freeze dryers offer a more advanced method for preserving dry goods by removing moisture while maintaining the food's original texture, taste, and nutritional value. 

This device takes meats and other foods and turns them into a dry good that does not need to be canned or traditionally frozen. 

To use a freeze dryer:

1. Place the selected foods on trays inside the machine, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal freeze-drying. 
2. The machine then lowers the temperature, freezes the food, and creates a vacuum to remove moisture through sublimation, leaving behind freeze-dried products with minimal loss of quality. 
3. Once the drying process is complete, carefully pack the freeze-dried goods into airtight containers or Mylar bags to protect them from moisture and oxygen. (Note: properly sealed and stored freeze-dried goods can retain their quality for an extended period, typically ranging from 15 to 25 years, depending on the type of food and storage conditions). 

Mylar Bags

Mylar bags are widely used for storing dry goods due to their durability, airtight seal, and protection against moisture, oxygen, and pests. 

To pack dry goods in Mylar bags:

1. Fill the bag with the desired amount of food item, leaving some space at the top for sealing. 
2. Use a heat sealer to seal the bag securely, ensuring no air can enter or escape. 
3. Once sealed, remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to maximize freshness and longevity.

Mylar bags can keep dry goods fresh for 5 to 25 years, depending on food type, storage conditions, and quality of the seal.

Airtight Packaging and Containers

Airtight packaging is a popular method for storing and preserving dry goods to protect against moisture, air, and pests and maintain freshness. These containers tend to be an eco-friendly option as most can be reused. 

To pack dry goods in airtight packaging:

1. Select a suitable container such as a glass jar, plastic container, or resealable bag. 
2. Fill the container with the desired amount of dry goods, ensuring minimal empty space. 
3. Seal the container tightly using lids, seals, or zip-locks. (Note: if using glass jars, you can use a handheld vacuum attachment that removes the air and seals the lid to the jar). 
4. Screw on a band. This way, if the seal breaks there is added protection to keep the airtight environment.

For resealable bags, try to press out as much air as possible before sealing. (Note: pests can easily access bags, so take caution when using a bag method.)

Homemade sourdough cereal in airtight storage jar. Photo by Bethany Beathard 

The 'Bucket' Method

Another effective method is using 5-gallon buckets and food-grade plastic containers with Gamma 2 lids. These containers offer ample storage space, making them ideal for storing bulk quantities of goods like grains, legumes, and flour. The durable construction of these containers makes them a common food storage choice in commercial settings. 

To use this method:

1. Fill the clean and dry containers with the desired dry goods, packing them as tightly as possible. 
2. Secure the Gamma 2 lids to create an airtight seal.

Vacuum sealing 64-ounce jars with a handheld vacuum. Photo by Bethany Beathard

Safety and Considerations

Ensuring the safety and quality of preserved dry goods depends on good sanitization practices and proactive measures against staleness. 

You can do this by thoroughly sanitizing all utensils, surfaces, and packaging materials to prevent contamination. It's imperative to promptly transfer the dry goods to clean, airtight containers or packaging to prevent exposure to air, which can lead to staleness and loss of flavor. Additionally, consider incorporating oxygen absorbers into the packaging to further extend shelf life by reducing oxygen levels, inhibiting oxidation, and preserving freshness. 

Proper labeling with the date of preservation and relevant details aids in tracking and ensures safe consumption. 

Sealing dry chickpeas. Photo by Zo Razafindramamba for Unsplash

The Future of Food Preservation

As food preservation methods gain traction in both homes and commercial businesses, new technologies continue to emerge with sustainable and eco-friendly approaches. From reusable packaging to solar-powered dehydration systems, these initiatives reduce waste while minimizing carbon footprint. 

I urge you to embrace these practices, share the knowledge, and help pave the way  for a more sustainable and resilient food system!