DEHYDRATOR
STORING DRIED FOODS
When food is sufficiently dehydrated, thoroughly cool before storing (approxi- mately 15-30 minutes). If food is allowed to sit too long in the open air, it will begin to absorb moisture. Select appropriate storage containers and store at optimal conditions. If moisture or condensation appears in storage container, food has not completely dried. Return to dryer and continue to dehydrate until completely dry.
Containers:
Any container that is clean, airtight, and moisture-proof is suitable for storage. Fill each container as much as possible. Heavy, zippered plastic bags or heat- sealing bags make excellent choices. Filled bags may be placed in metal cans with lids (shortening or coffee cans are good). This will keep out insects and light. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids can be used with or without plastic bags. Plastic containers with lids are good, but should be used in conjunction with locking plastic bags, because plastic containers are not airtight. Do not use paper or cloth bags, lightweight plastic bags, bread wrappers, unlined metal containers or any container without a tight-fitting lid.
Labeling:
Label dehydrated food with the name of the product, date dried, and quantity/ weight. This helps in rotating food and minimizes waste.
Location:
Cool, dark and dry are the keys to maintaining the quality of dried food. Glass jars or plastic containers should be placed in a paper bag or in a closed cabinet to keep out light. Cement walls and floors are often damp. Dried food contain- ers should not be placed directly on the floor, or touching a basement or cellar wall. Do not store dried food near items with a strong odor, such as varnish, paint remover or kerosene.
Length of Storage:
In most cases, dried fruits and vegetables should not be stored longer than one year. Plan to use all dried meats, fish, poultry or jerky within a month or two. Ro- tate on a first-dried, first-to-be-used basis. Check dried foods periodically. If the food seems more moist than when packed, moisture may be getting into the container. Spread food on drying trays and re-dry. Then pack the food in an air- tight container. Mold indicates that food was not properly dried the first time, or was not properly stored. Discard or compost moldy food. Do not try to use it.
