How to Keep Food in the Pantry Fresh

If your pantry is somewhat of a nightmare, don’t stress. The majority of us would agree that our pantries do not resemble the inside of an IKEA. The pantry can be a daunting area of the house, especially when things are out of order, out of date, and out of use. Keeping food in the pantry fresh is critical not only for the health of your family, but for your own mental health. Some foods that you might store in the pantry can live there for years. These non-perishables don’t have a shelf life, and include canned beans, pasta, grains, and tuna. However, if grains are not properly stored, they can still perish - even with their long shelf life. One important step in keeping food in the pantry safe is airtight containers. Make sure that you store even non-perishable items in airtight containers to avoid bugs, rotting, and mold. Sugar and flour can get clumpy when exposed to moisture. Another thing to consider is that foods that aren’t classified as non-perishable have a shelf life. Although the large container of oil you purchased might be useful, if you have kept it for 6 months or longer, it’s time to replace it. Spices can last longer, but should be stored in a cool dark place, like the back of the pantry. You can even purchase seal-able containers that block out light to keep all of your pantry goods fresh. The next time you open your pantry - don’t stress! Start out with checking the expiration dates on your most commonly used products, and make sure to check our blog weekly for more helpful tips.