5 handy long-term food storage tips you didn’t know about

One of the most startling facts about climate change is how much of it is caused by food that never even got eaten. A massive eight per cent of the pollution that drives climate change is caused by food waste. Fixing this means changes to the way we grow, cook and eat, but also the way we store food long term.

If you want do do better for the planet, save money and spend less time going back and forth to the grocery store for supplies, here are five easy food storage tips you may not have thought of, to help you keep food fresh for longer.

1. Store grains with bay leaves

Adding a bay leaf to your rice or grain containers can help repel insects naturally, providing an extra layer of protection against pests and making sure your produce lasts longer.

2. Reuse glass jars with airtight lids

Instead of purchasing new containers, repurpose old glass jars (like pasta sauce jars) for dry foods like spices or grains. They provide a seal and are perfect for storing smaller quantities. This method is also an easy way to reduce plastic packaging.

3. Store potatoes with apples

This one may sound odd, but placing an apple in a bag of potatoes can prevent them from sprouting too quickly. That’s because apples release ethylene gas, which inhibits sprout growth.

4. Use diatomaceous earth for dry goods

Diatomaceous what now? Don’t worry – it may sound sciency but it’s easy to find from health food suppliers and can really help in the fight against pests. Diatomaceous earth is an abundant, non-toxic and naturally-occurring material comprised of the fossils of minuscule aquatic organisms called diatoms. In its finely ground, food-grade form, diatomaceous earth clings to critters as they move through it, acting as a natural insecticide. Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth around your dry food storage can prevent insects like weevils from infesting your grains, beans and pasta.

5. Embrace those unloved spaces

If you have limited space, get creative. The ideal storage spot is cool, dark and dry. We’ve seen the bottom of closets converted into mini pantries and cans and jars stored under beds.

4 main methods for long-term food storage

Depending on the type of food and how long you want it to last, some common techniques include:

Canning

Preserving food in jars through heat processing to eliminate microorganisms. This is great if you grow your own food (or are given a glut of something by a friend or relative). Think of jams, jellies and stewed fruits.

Pickling

There are two main types of pickling: vinegar pickling and brine pickling. We often think of pickled vegetables such as gherkins, onions and beetroots. However, fruits can be pickled too. Preserved lemons (which are essentially pickled in salt and their own juice) are often used in North African cuisine but can add a citrusy punch to many dishes. Fermentation expert David Zilber also shares some tips in his interview here.

Dehydration

Removing moisture from food to prevent bacteria and mold growth. There are compact dehydrators out there that can help. But you can also go old school and dry fruit and veg in the oven on a low setting or even air dry them. Dried fruit makes a healthy, lightweight snack, ideal for packed lunches and camping and hiking trips.

Vacuum sealing

Packaging food in airtight bags to extend shelf life by removing oxygen.

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