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Long-term food storage requires careful attention. Without a proper food storage strategy, you not only risk the food, but also your business. A little mistake can lead to an unexpected and unaffordable loss. To avoid this mishap, the sealing of Mylar bags for long-term food storage plays a crucial role. It is not as easy as said. 

This guide will walk you through the correct method for heat-sealing Mylar bags to ensure optimal long-term food storage. By following these best practices, you can securely preserve your food using mylar vacuum seal bags with confidence and ease.

Steps to Seal Mylar Bags for Long-Term Food Storage

1) Label the Bags

Each Mylar bag should receive product labels and a date mark before filling it with materials. Permanent markers, along with printed labels, serve the purpose of labeling Mylar bags. It becomes simpler for me to write content on the bag during its empty flat state. Writing the package contents and date on the Mylar bag before filling it enables you to identify contents without needing to open the sealed bag. You will be able to recall the exact date of packaging. Writing contents and date on Mylar bags in step one saves future confusion and significant time.

2) Fill the Mylar Bags

You should continue with your food distribution into printed mylar bags at this point. The recommended Mylar bag stuffing materials consist of dry food items that should include rice, beans, oats, flour and pasta. The container should not accept food items that contain moisture and oil. Those foods spoil quickly. Allow two to three inches of clearance above the packaged food to ensure the bag can be easily closed and sealed.

3) Add Oxygen Absorbers

Lay the oxygen absorber on top of the food before fully filling the bag with contents. Apply the oxygen absorber to the top of the food before proceeding with the bag’s closing process. Dispose of the absorber packets immediately before using them for bag sealing operations. The oxygen absorbers begin reacting immediately after contact with atmospheric air. 

4) Flatten and Remove Air

Create a flattening motion on the bag to remove excessive air from inside. Starting from the bottom level, you should press until the top material reaches. Caringly flatten out the bag structure. Better food preservation occurs by removing air from containers. You can select either your arm or a clean bottle to push out air from the bag effectively. Performing the task does not require absolute perfection. Take time to remove as much air from the bag before applying the seal.

5) Seal the Mylar Bags with Heat

This is the most important part. You can use a hair straightener, a heat sealer, or even a clothes iron. Don’t rush this part. A bad seal can let air in and ruin the food.

  • Clothing iron: Set it to the wool setting. Press it firmly across the edge of the bag a couple of times. It gives you a solid seal and doesn’t damage the bag or the iron. Make sure you use a hard surface like a cutting board underneath.
  • Hair straightener: A hair straightener also works well. It’s even better if you have one with metal plates. Just put the edge of the bag between the clamps and run it slowly from one side to the other.
  • Food saver: Some people try a food saver machine, but I don’t recommend it for thick Mylar bags. Most food savers don’t get hot enough, and they might seal the bag too early, before removing air. If you use oxygen absorbers, a little leftover air is okay, but the seal still needs to be strong.
  • Impulse sealer: If you use an impulse sealer, it gives a clean and even seal. These machines cost a bit more, but they’re quick and easy to use. Just place the top of the bag along the heated strip and press the lever down for about 2 to 3 seconds. The seal sets right away, and you can move on to the next bag.

6) Store Properly

Once sealed, keep the bags in a cool, dry place. I like to place them in food-safe buckets or plastic bins. This gives them extra protection from pests or damage. Avoid places with high heat or moisture. A closet, pantry, or basement usually works fine. Check the bags after a few days to make sure they stay sealed and flat. If one bag looks puffed up, it may need resealing or replacing.

How do you seal a Mylar bag?

The Mylar bag must be sealed with food inside while adding an oxygen absorber, then carefully squeezing out all the air. Secure the open edge of the bag through treatment with a regular clothing iron.

Can you Vacuum Seal Mylar bags?

The proper sealing temperature needed by Mylar bags exceeds the heat capacity of most vacuum sealers, resulting in ineffective bag mounting. Extra sealing methods will be necessary when using Mylar bags. Using oxygen absorbers within the bag proves better than relying on vacuum sealing as a preservation method.

How to seal a bag with heat?

Applying heat through a hair straightener or iron to the top edge of the bag during a several-second period will help properly seal it. Sealing the Mylar bag should be consistent across the length while also providing complete air-tightness.

How to use Mylar bags for food storage?

Place dry food into the Mylar bag, followed by an oxygen absorber, then squeeze out remaining air before heating the bag to make a seal. Heat the top edge of the bag before placing it in a dry bucket alongside additional protective storage containers.

Need more details on long-term food storage using Mylar bags? Our complete guide covers everything you need: Mylar Bags sizes for Food Storage

Bottom Line

So, sealing a Mylar bag for long-term food storage is important for the protection and storage of food. Using only a proven strategy is crucial to avoid ruining your food. From gathering your materials and supplies to sealing and storing your bags, you need to use the right steps while sealing your custom printed Mylar bags. Above, I have discussed all the important steps you need to follow. With these steps, you can ensure a safe and secure storage of your food in custom Mylar bags.