Tag: food storage

How to Store Rice Long Term: Essential Tips

Ricardo Davis

– Entrée Bucket costs $199.95 and contains 12 bags of lunch and dinner entrées
– Entrée Bucket has 9,300 total calories
– Clean and simple ingredients, non-GMO ingredients, no added junk
– 25-year shelf life
– Brown rice has a shorter shelf life than white rice due to its bran layer
– White rice is best for long-term storage
– Recommended storage containers for rice: mason jars, mylar bags, food-grade buckets, or #10 cans
– Advantages and drawbacks of each container type are listed
– Storing rice in mylar bags and food buckets is an involved process
– The article provides instructions on how to store rice long term. It recommends using large mylar bags, food-safe oxygen absorbers, and 5-gallon buckets. The size and quantity of oxygen absorbers depend on the container used. The article provides a chart with recommended oxygen absorber amounts for different bag sizes. After sealing the mylar bags, it suggests storing them in buckets for extra security. Food-grade buckets and high-quality lids are recommended. The article advises storing the rice in a dark, cool, and dry location, and suggests using the fridge or freezer if possible. Precautions against rodents and vermin are also necessary. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring and rotating the stockpile if necessary.
– The article provides information on how to store rice long-term. It suggests labeling rice with the date to keep track of its age. It advises monitoring and rotating rice stored for a long time to ensure quality and nutritional value. Checking sealed packages for exposure to insects or rodents is recommended, especially for opened stocks that are periodically eaten. Eventually, older rice may need to be cooked and consumed to prevent spoiling, and then replaced with fresh reserves. White rice is considered the best for long-term storage, although it is slightly less nutritious than brown rice. The article also mentions that DIY rice storage can be labor-intensive and may lead to spoiled rice if missteps occur. Complementing rice storage with professionally prepared and packaged food, such as freeze-dried vegetables and meat, is suggested for convenience, reliability, and a diverse food supply. Starting with a 72-hour emergency kit is recommended.
– Rice is a good item for long-term food storage and can last for over 20 years without refrigeration or freezing. White rice, instant rice, and wild rice can last over 30 years if stored correctly, while brown, black, and purple rice will only last around 18 months. Long grain, medium grain, and short grain are types of white rice that can be stored long-term. Instant rice is a good option as it stores well and rehydrates quickly, without the risk of fat going rancid. It is recommended to store rice in a cool location away from heat sources, with a preferred storage temperature of below 40℉. Moisture should be avoided as it can lead to mold. Keeping rice tightly sealed helps prevent oxidation and spoilage. Buying rice in bulk can save money.
– The article provides information on how to store rice for long-term storage. It suggests using oxygen absorbers, freezing the rice for three days, or sealing it in an oxygen-free container to kill any bugs or eggs in the stored rice. It states that two weeks without oxygen should kill all bugs and eggs. The article recommends packing rice into insect and rodent-proof containers, such as Mylar bags, but notes that rats and mice can chew through Mylar. It suggests using 5 or 6 gallon food-grade buckets with lids or other rodent-proof containers. The article mentions using a kitchen scale to measure the rice, a Mylar bag sealer, and a Sharpie marker to label the bags and buckets with the date and contents. It provides recommendations for the thickness of Mylar bags and the amount of oxygen absorbers needed for different sizes of Mylar bags. It advises using a Mylar heat sealer, clothes iron, or hair straightening iron to seal the bags. The article also suggests using a handheld or impulse sealer, but notes that it can be tricky to use if the bag is already in the bucket. It recommends using food-grade buckets with lids, specifically 5 or 6 gallon buckets with screw-on lids. The article mentions using a Sharpie marker to label the bags and buckets and suggests getting a bucket lid opener if using standard lids, as they can be tough to pry open.
– A 5-gallon bucket can store about 35 pounds of white rice if filled.
– Rice can be stored in mason jars for long-term storage.
– Mason jars should be vacuum sealed or have an oxygen absorber added.
– Bay leaves can be added to open containers of rice to deter pests.
– FEMA recommends a minimum of 72 hours of food storage for all family members.
– The USDA states that 1 pound of uncooked rice equals 1633 calories.
– Utah State University suggests 25 to 60 pounds of rice per person per year.
– They recommend a total of 300 pounds of grains per person per year.
– Bulk rice can be found at ethnic grocery stores, warehouse grocery stores, and Mennonite and Church of Latter Day Saints bulk food stores.
– Country Life Natural Foods and Azure Standard are suggested online options for buying bulk rice. This article discusses how to store rice long term. It mentions that Amazon.com carries bulk rice options, including Auguson Farms long grain white rice and Mountain High Organics rice prepacked in storage buckets. It also states that Web Restaurant Store sells rice in bulk but has high shipping costs.
– The article answers questions about storing rice. It explains that storing rice directly in a food-grade bucket can result in the bucket failing over time. Using Mylar bags is recommended because they keep out light, moisture, and air, preventing oxidation. The article also mentions that FoodSaver bags are better than grocery store bags for long-term storage but not as good as Mylar or glass.
– The article mentions that rice can be stored in the freezer in a sealed container and will last indefinitely. However, it suggests reserving freezer space for other foods and storing rice in a cool location such as a basement or under a bed.
– In terms of cooking rice during a power outage, the article provides two options. It recommends rinsing the rice in a strainer before adding water to remove unwanted material and reduce arsenic. For cooking over a campfire or small emergency stove, it suggests adding 2 cups of water for each cup of rice to a pot, boiling them together, and adding a pinch of salt. It notes that stirring the rice should be avoided.
– Overall, the article provides information on buying bulk rice, the benefits of using Mylar bags for storage, the drawbacks of trying to store rice in a freezer, recommended storage locations, and methods for cooking rice during a power outage. The article does not provide any information about storing rice long term.

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Is Tupperware Microwave Safe for Heating Food?

Ricardo Davis

– Tupperware containers are labeled as microwave-safe and BPA-free
– Avoid overheating or lengthy reheating in the microwave with Tupperware
– Some studies have found that plastics such as BPA and BPS may be harmful to health
– Certain Tupperware containers may be made with polycarbonate plastic, which can release BPA into food when heated
– The use of BPA in Tupperware products in the USA and Canada has been discontinued since 2010
– Tupperware products are not designed for cooking but for food storage
– Look for a microwave-safe symbol at the bottom of the Tupperware container
– Plastic numbers 2 and 5 (HDPE and PP) are microwave-safe, while numbers 1, 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided
– If there is no indication of microwave safety, it is best to avoid using the container in the microwave
– Test if a plastic container is suitable for microwaving by heating a glass of water in the container for one minute
– Invest in glass, ceramic, or specially designed microwave-safe containers for microwaving
– Reheat food in a plastic container with the lid off, using a glass, ceramic plate, or damp paper towel instead of the lid
– Leftovers should not be microwaved more than once, and the food should reach a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety
– Single-use containers and damaged or old plastic Tupperware should be avoided
– Microwave Tupperware with the lid off to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup
– Glass containers and ceramic dishes are suggested as alternative microwave-safe options to plastic Tupperware
– Stoneware dishes without metallic lining are safe to use in the microwave
– Tupperware with additional decorations should not be microwaved
– Food-grade stainless steel Tupperware made from 304 stainless steel is safe for food storage but not for microwaving
– Plastic containers should not be microwaved to avoid negative health effects
– Heating plastic in the microwave can cause leaching of chemicals into food
– The FDA does not regulate the term “microwave safe”
– Plastics labeled with numbers 2, 4, and 5 are safer for microwaving
– Plastics labeled with numbers 1, 3, 6, or 7 should never go into the microwave
– BPA is an unsafe stabilizer used in plastic manufacturing
– BPA-free containers do not contain this stabilizer
– Tupperware products sold in the US since 2010 are BPA-free

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Does Worcestershire Sauce Go Bad? Unveiling the Truth

Ricardo Davis

– The main ingredients of Worcestershire sauce do not require refrigeration.
– The shelf life of Worcestershire sauce is 1.5 to 3 years.
– An opened bottle of Worcestershire sauce can last for about a year in the pantry and up to 3 years in the fridge.
– Worcestershire sauce does not really go bad but its quality degrades slowly over time.
– The taste may not be great if a bottle is opened after 10 years, but it could still be good.
– Once opened, the sauce starts to lose its quality slowly, and dishes flavored with it may not be as good as before.
– The general consensus is that an opened bottle of Worcestershire sauce stays best for about 2-3 years.
– If stored properly, Worcestershire sauce can last much longer.
– Sediment at the bottom of the bottle is normal and can be dissolved by shaking.
– If the sauce develops an unpleasant smell, signs of mold, or a buildup of gas, it should be discarded.

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How Long Does Pulled Pork Last in the Fridge? Insider Tips for Food Safety & Storage

Ricardo Davis

– Pulled pork leftovers should be used within four days of being cooked.
– Raw pork butt or shoulder should be kept in the fridge for up to five days before smoking.
– Leftover pulled pork should be stored in an airtight container to prevent spoiling.
– Pulled pork should be disposed of if it is molded or visually changed.
– Pulled pork should be disposed of if it smells sour or ammonia-like.
– Eating spoiled pulled pork can lead to food poisoning.
– Symptoms of food poisoning include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
– Leftover pulled pork can be saved for longer by freezing it.
– The best way to freeze pulled pork is by storing it in vacuum-sealed bags or double-bagged freezer bags with all the air squeezed out to reduce the risk of freezer burn.
– Portion out the pulled pork into meal-sized amounts or individual servings for easy thawing.
– Pulled pork can be kept in the freezer for a maximum of three months for best quality.
– Frozen pulled pork can be thawed in the refrigerator the day before it is needed, on the bottom shelf and on a plate or container to catch any liquid from thawing.

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Can You Freeze Sour Cream? The Dos and Don’ts!

Ricardo Davis

– Sour cream can be frozen.
– Freezing sour cream can affect its quality and texture.
– Some manufacturers advise against freezing sour cream.
– Sour cream can be stored in a plastic bag, glass container, or silicone ice cube tray.
– Frozen sour cream can become lumpy or grainy once thawed.
– Adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to thawed sour cream can help restore its texture.
– Sour cream can safely last in the refrigerator for one to three weeks.
– Sour cream that has a bad smell, mold, or a yellow or discolored color may be spoiled.
– Sour cream is a dairy product rich in vitamins and minerals.

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How Long is Chili Good in the Fridge? Best Storage Practices to Keep Your Chili Fresh

Ricardo Davis

– Chili can last for three to four days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
– It is important to store chili within two hours after cooking or purchasing it from a restaurant.
– Proper storage includes transferring chili into an airtight container, storing it in the coldest part of the fridge, and labeling and dating it.
– Chili should be checked for signs of spoilage before reheating and eating, and it should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
– After four days, it is recommended to discard any remaining chili.
– The primary factors that affect how long chili can last in the fridge are how it was cooked, how it’s stored, and the age of the ingredients used.
– If chili is not brought to a boil, it should be discarded after two days as harmful bacteria may have developed.
– Expired ingredients used to make chili should be discarded immediately as they may contain harmful bacteria.
– Chili can go bad if it is not stored correctly, cooked at a high temperature, or checked for expiration before use.
– Signs of spoiled chili include mold, color change, sour smell, and off smell.
– Eating expired chili could cause food poisoning, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.
– Chili can be frozen for longer storage by transferring it into an airtight freezer-safe container and reheating it to an internal temperature of 165°F prior to serving.
– Frozen chili can last up to six months in the freezer.
– Meat-based chili can be enjoyed up to four days after cooking, while chili without meat may stay fresh for up to five or six days.
– Chili should be cooled down before refrigeration.
– Canned chili can be eaten up to one week later.
– Leftover chili should be stored in shallow containers with a depth of no more than two to three inches.
– Chili is a type of stew or sauce that typically includes beans, tomatoes, and meat.
– The ingredients of chili are cooked together in a pot or slow cooker.
– Spices such as cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder can be added to enhance flavor.
– Chili should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours after cooking or purchasing.
– It is important to store chili in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually at the back near the bottom shelf.
– Chili should be labeled and dated before storing.
– Before reheating and eating chili, check for signs of spoilage such as discoloration, an off-putting smell, or a slimy texture.
– Reheat chili to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

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Can you microwave mason jars safely without hazards?

Ricardo Davis

List of Pertinent Information about Microwaving Mason Jars:

– Mason jars made of glass can be microwaved if they are labeled as “microwave-safe.”
– It is not safe to microwave plastic or styrofoam containers.
– Glass without a “microwave-safe” label may crack or shatter in the microwave due to the presence of metal, dyes, or air bubbles.
– Drinking glasses or glass food storage containers with a plastic seal should be avoided in the microwave.
– Recently refrigerated or slightly cold glass is safe to microwave, but glass that has been in the fridge or freezer for a while should be warmed on the counter first to prevent cracking.
– To test if glass is microwave-safe, fill the dish with a cup of cold water and microwave it for 1-2 minutes. If the glass becomes hot to the touch, it is not microwave-safe.
– Stirring food while heating ensures even warming and heat distribution in the microwave.
– Glass should not be left in the microwave for more than 5 minutes to prevent cracking or breaking.
– Microwave-safe containers usually have wavy lines symbol on the bottom, indicating their safety for use in the microwave.
– Containers with a #5 symbol made of polypropylene (PP) are generally considered microwave-safe.
– CPET containers marked with #1 are safe for the microwave as they are designed for oven-ready applications.
– APET containers with #1 symbol are not safe for the microwave and are commonly used for deli, supermarket, and cold food containers.
– Polystyrene (Styrofoam) containers marked with #7 symbol are also not safe for the microwave.
– It is recommended to transfer food from foam containers onto a safe plate or container before reheating.
– Harvest Fiber containers are not recommended for microwave use as they are compostable.
– Paper products should not be microwaved as additives used to coat, seal, or glue the paper may leak into the food.

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How to Reheat Pulled Pork: Ensuring Juicy Tenderness

Ricardo Davis

– The article discusses different methods for reheating pulled pork leftovers
– It mentions that 40% of all food in the US gets wasted each year, equivalent to about 108 billion pounds
– The article suggests that reheating leftovers in unique and tasty ways can help reduce food waste and save money
– The six best methods for reheating pulled pork are mentioned as the oven, stovetop, air fryer, smoker, grill, or crockpot
– Proper storage and refrigeration of leftover pork is emphasized to avoid foodborne illnesses
– Reheating pulled pork in the oven is recommended, with a low temperature of around 325 degrees F and the addition of moisture using sauce or broth
– Reheating on the stovetop is also suggested, with the pulled pork placed in a saucepan over low heat with water or broth
– Pulled pork stored in the refrigerator can stay good for 3 to 4 days if properly sealed
– Pulled pork can last up to 3 months in the freezer when stored in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag
– Reheated pulled pork should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before consuming
– Reheating pulled pork multiple times can cause it to dry out and increase the risk of bacterial growth
– Leftover pulled pork can be used in various ways, such as topping a baked potato, filling for enchiladas, or integrating it into a stir-fry
– To reheat pulled pork without drying it out, add liquid (broth, apple juice, or BBQ sauce), cover with foil or a lid, and use low and slow heating methods
– Barbecue sauce, apple juice, and apple cider vinegar are recommended as liquids to use when reheating pulled pork
– The article encourages readers to try out different methods and recipes for reheating and using pulled pork
– The article suggests pinning the recipes on Pinterest, tagging #AFoodLoversKitchen on Instagram and Facebook, and uploading photos on Pinterest to share experiences with the recipes

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How Long Does Chicken Broth Last in the Fridge? Ensure Food Safety and Maximize Freshness

Ricardo Davis

– Chicken broth can last 3-4 days in the fridge
– Airtight containers help extend the life of the broth
– Canned or boxed broth has a similar recommended time period of freshness as homemade broth
– High sodium content and pasteurization process may allow canned or boxed broth to last slightly longer
– If broth develops a strange smell or appearance, it should be thrown away
– Chicken broth can be frozen and stored in the fridge for up to two to three months
– Frozen broth may last longer but may also lose quality over time
– The key to extending the life of the broth is keeping it airtight
– After opening, unused broth should be stored in a sealed container in the fridge
– Chicken broth can be made in a big batch and frozen in recipe portions
– Use chicken broth within two to three months for the best taste
– Quality of chicken broth can deteriorate as it ages.

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How Long Are Mashed Potatoes Good For and Best Storage Tips

Ricardo Davis

List of Pertinent Information on ‘How Long Are Mashed Potatoes Good For’:

– Cooked mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
– Cooked mashed potatoes can be stored in the freezer for 10-12 months.
– Fresh potatoes will last 2-3 months at near 50°F.
– Fresh potatoes will last 1-2 weeks at room temperature.
– Raw potatoes stored in water will last 24 hours.
– Boiled potatoes stored in the refrigerator will last 3-4 days.
– If there is a foul smell or appearance, mashed potatoes should be discarded.
– Reheat mashed potatoes to 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have formed.
– Ways to freeze mashed potatoes include adding cream and butter, dividing them into one-cup portions, and freezing them on a baking sheet.
– Mashed potatoes can be reheated on the stovetop or in the oven.
– Adding extra liquid, such as cream or buttermilk, can help prevent them from drying out while reheating.
– If reheating in the oven, spread butter on top and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
– It is recommended to make dishes with mashed potatoes before they go bad or spoil.
– Nutritional information for mashed potatoes cooked with skin without salt: 87 calories, 1.9 grams of protein, 20.1 grams of carbs, 77% water, 1.8 grams of fiber, and 0.1 grams of fat.
– Recommended potatoes for mashing are Russet Potatoes and Yukon Gold Potatoes.
– Russet Potatoes are reddish-brown with dark brown skin, white, dry, and starchy flesh.
– Yukon Gold Potatoes are creamy when crushed, never plump, and have a slightly buttery flavor.
– Recipe ingredients: 1kg potatoes, 1/2 cup hot milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/3 cup unsalted butter, 6-8 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional), salt and pepper for taste, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional).
– Recipe instructions: peel and cut potatoes, boil for 15-20 minutes, fry garlic in butter, drain cooked potatoes, add butter, milk, garlic, and sour cream, mash potatoes, add parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
– Storing mashed potatoes in an airtight container prevents deterioration due to oxygen exposure and moisture loss.
– Leftover mashed potatoes can be used to make a variety of dishes.
– It is important to reheat mashed potatoes to a temperature of 71 degrees Celsius before consuming if they have been left out for 8-10 hours.
– Peeled potatoes can sit in water for 12-24 hours but should not be kept for more than 24 hours.
– Mashed potatoes can last longer when stored in the freezer.
– Mashed potatoes should not be stored with onions and apples because they produce gases that can affect their quality.

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