To: Packaging Bee AU
What Are Mylar Bags and Why Are They So Popular for Long-Term Storage?
.jpeg)
In recent years, Mylar bags have become a go-to solution for people looking to store food, herbs, and other sensitive items for the long haul. Whether you're a prepper, a home gardener, or just someone who likes to keep a well-stocked pantry, chances are you've heard of these shiny, metallic-looking pouches. But what exactly are Mylar bags, and why are they so effective?
What Are Mylar Bags?
"Mylar" is actually a brand name originally developed by DuPont in the 1950s. The technical name is biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BoPET). In simpler terms, it’s a type of polyester film that’s incredibly strong, lightweight, and resistant to gas, moisture, and light.
Mylar bags are typically made with multiple layers of this film, often combined with aluminium and other barrier materials. This combination makes the bags highly effective at protecting contents from oxygen, moisture, and light, which are the main culprits when it comes to spoilage.
Why Are They So Popular?
Here are a few key reasons why Mylar bags have gained popularity:
- Long-Term Food Storage
- Mylar bags can keep food Storage Mylar bags fresh for 10–30 years when used correctly (usually with oxygen absorbers). They're ideal for storing dry goods like rice, beans, pasta, flour, and freeze-dried meals.
- Protection From the Elements
- The strong barrier properties protect against humidity, oxygen, UV light, and pests, making them great for emergency kits and off-grid storage.
- Reusability and Portability
- While not always recommended, some types of Mylar bags can be reused if properly cleaned and resealed. They’re also lightweight and flexible, making them easy to transport and store.
- Cost-Effective
- Compared to other long-term storage options like glass jars or vacuum-sealed containers, Mylar bags offer a relatively low-cost, high-performance alternative.
How to Use Mylar Bags
To get the best results, follow these steps:
- Choose the right size and thickness (typically 5 mil or more for long-term storage).
- Fill the bag with your chosen dry goods.
- Add an oxygen absorber to eliminate air and prevent spoilage.
- Seal the bag using a heat sealer or a flat iron.
- Store the sealed bags in a cool, dark place—preferably inside a food-grade bucket for added protection.
Final Thoughts
Mylar bags are a practical, efficient way to extend the shelf life of your food and other perishables. With just a little bit of preparation, they offer peace of mind for anyone looking to build a food reserve or reduce food waste. Whether you're preparing for emergencies or just like being organised, Mylar bags are a smart addition to your storage toolkit.
Why is this important?
Mylar bags are high-barrier storage pouches made from a polyester film known as BoPET. Originally developed by DuPont in the mid-20th century, the name “Mylar” has since become a generic term for a broad range of similar materials. These bags are best known for their role in long-term food storage and are widely used by survivalists, homesteaders, food manufacturers, and everyday consumers alike.