Long-Term Supply

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Long-Term Supply: Product Recommendations
http://providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,7531-1-4062-1,00.html


The following suggested amounts are for an adult.

Quantity for One Month: Recommended Products (Long-Term Storage Life)

25 lbs: Wheat, white rice, corn, and other grains (30+ years)
5 lbs: Dry beans (30+ years)

You may also want to add other items to your longer-term storage such as sugar, nonfat dry milk, salt, baking soda, and cooking oil. To meet nutritional needs, also store foods containing Vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Dry products intended for longer-term storage should be low in moisture (about 10% or less) and free from insects.

[AZ Prepper]

Dry Products for Longer-Term Food Storage
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/113951_DryProductsLongerTermStorage_Jun_08_pdf.pdf


Products intended for longer-term storage (20-30 years or more) must (a) be low in oil content to avoid rancidity and (b) have about 10% or less moisture content to prevent microbial growth.

Warning: Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in packaging that reduces oxygen (for example, cans, foil pouches, or bottles with oxygen absorber packets).

Some dry products may not be suitable for longer-term storage, including:


Barley, pearled (rancidity)
Eggs, dried (rancidity)
Flour, whole wheat (rancidity)
Grains, milled: other than rolled oats (rancidity)
Granola (rancidity, microbial growth)
Nuts (rancidity, microbial growth)
Rice, brown (rancidity)
Sugar, brown (microbial growth)
Dried vegetables and fruits: must be dry enough, inside and out, to snap when bent
(microbial growth)

[AZ Prepper]

Packaging Recommendations
http://providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,7532-1-4063-1,00.html

Recommended containers for longer-term storage include the following:



# 10 cans (available at Church home storage centers)
Foil pouches (available through Church Distribution Services)
PETE bottles (for dry products such as wheat, corn, and beans)


These containers, used with oxygen absorber packets, eliminate food-borne insects and help preserve nutritional quality and taste. Oxygen absorber packets are available at Church home storage centers or through Church Distribution Services.

Under certain conditions, you can also use plastic buckets for longer-term storage of wheat, dry beans, and other dry products.

Warning: Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in packaging that reduces oxygen. When stored in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers, products must be dry (about 10% or less moisture content).

[AZ Prepper]

#10 Cans for Longer-Term Storage
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/105529_FHSNumberTenCansDetail_pdf.pdf



What equipment, supplies, and services are available for canning at home storage centers?
#10 cans and oxygen absorbers are for sale to Church members at home storage centers. Canning sealers are available for use in the centers. Portable canning sealers may be borrowed by those wishing to do canning elsewhere.

What types of food can be packaged in the cans?
#10 cans may be used to store foods that are dry (about 10% moisture or less), shelf-stable, and low in oil content. Visit the Family Home Storage section of ProvidentLiving.org for product and storage recommendations. Many items can be stored for 20 to 30+ years. Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in sealed, unprocessed cans.

How much will each can hold?
Fill volume of a #10 can is approximately .82 gallon. The weight varies by product. For example, a #10 can holds 5.8 pounds (2.6 kg) of wheat, 5.7 pounds (2.6 kg) of white rice, or 4.1 pounds (2.3 kg) of nonfat, instant dry milk.

Do foods react with the metal in the can?
No. Foods do not come in contact with the metal because they are separated from it by the can's food-grade enamel lining. The low moisture and oil content of the foods limits degradation of the can lining.

What is the best way to seal the cans?
Home storage centers have can sealers for members to use for packaging products that are available at the centers. Additionally, they have portable sealers that can be checked out by members for home or local use. Some stakes, wards, and families own portable can sealers.

Where can I find a can sealer to purchase?
Sources of #10 can sealers may be found online. Some can sealers, particularly those that do not have a motor-powered chuck, are designed for laboratory use and are not durable enough for more than incidental use. The source used by Welfare Services for a durable, portable sealer is Gering and Son in Nampa, Idaho. The Gering sealers and replacement parts are available for purchase at http://www.geringandson.com.

Is it necessary to use oxygen absorbers when packaging into #10 cans?
Yes, in all products except sugar. Visit providentliving.org for more information on oxygen absorber packets. The absorbers, along with a good seal, prevent insect infestation and help preserve product quality. Oxygen absorbers are available to members at home storage centers or may be ordered from ldscatalog.com (http://ldscatalog.com) and other online suppliers.

How should cans of food be stored?
The cans should be protected from moisture to prevent rust. They store best in a cool (75°F/ 24°C or lower), dry area where they are not in direct contact with floors or walls. The cans are very durable. Cases of cans may be stacked or placed under beds or in closets.

Are #10 cans a packaging option for emergency kits?
No. Many emergency kit items are not suitable for packaging in cans. First aid items and food rations, such as granola bars, are best stored in containers with removable lids to allow for frequent rotation.

Where can I find #10 cans?
Cans are available for members to purchase at home storage centers. Refer to Home Storage Centers on ProvidentLiving.org for a list of locations. Other supply options include online resources, local commercial canneries, or container suppliers (check the yellow pages under headings such as "cans," "containers," or similar listings).

[AZ Prepper]

Foil Pouches for Longer-Term Food Storage
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/92987_FoilPouchStorageInstructionsv3_pdf.pdf



What type of pouch is available at home storage centers, at Distribution Services, and online at ldscatalog.com?
The pouches are made of multilayer laminated plastic and aluminum. The material is 7 mils thick (178 microns) and protects food against moisture and insects.

What types of foods can be packaged in pouches?
The pouches can be used to store foods that are dry (about 10% moisture or less), shelf-stable, and low in oil content. Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in oxygen reduced packaging. Visit providentliving.org for specific product recommendations.

How much food does each pouch hold?
Each pouch holds 1 gallon (4 liters) of product. The weight varies by product. A pouch holds 7 pounds (3.2 kg) of wheat, 6.8 pounds (3.1 kg) of white rice, or 5 pounds (2.3 kg) of dry milk.

Do foods react with the aluminum in the pouch?
No. Foods do not come in contact with the aluminum because they are separated from it by a layer of food-grade plastic. The metal barrier is important in protecting the food from moisture and oxygen.

What is the best way to seal pouches?
Pouches should be sealed using an impulse sealer (see related instructions). Do not use an iron or another household heating device because it will not provide an adequate seal, especially for powdered products such as flour or dry milk. The impulse sealers used by Welfare Services (American International Electric AIE 305 A1 and Mercier ME 305 A1) meet the following specifications: 3/16-inch (5 mm) wide seal, 11.5-inch (305 mm) wide jaws, rated for up to 8-mil (205 microns) thick pouches, and equipped with a safety switch to cancel operation if the jaw is obstructed.

Where can I find an impulse sealer?
Impulse sealers are available at most home storage centers. Many stakes also have impulse sealers available. If you prefer, you may purchase an impulse sealer from Distribution Services or online at ldscatalog.com.

Is it necessary to remove all the air from the pouches?
No. Oxygen absorbers remove only the oxygen from the air in the pouches. The low oxygen content eliminates food-borne insects and helps preserve product quality. Visit providentliving.org for additional information on oxygen absorbers.

Is it normal for the sides of the pouch to pull in once the pouch is sealed?
With most products, the sides of sealed pouches will pull in slightly within a few days of packaging. This is more noticeable with granular foods than with powdered products. Visit providentliving.org for additional information on oxygen absorbers.

How should pouches of food be stored?
The pouches store best in a cool, dry, rodent-free area. Storage containers should not be in direct contact with concrete floors or walls.

Are pouches rodent proof?
Pouches are not rodent proof. If rodents or other pests are a significant potential problem in the storage area, the pouches should be placed into containers that are rodent or pest proof. Do not store them in containers that have been used to store nonfood items.

Should emergency kits be packaged in pouches?
Many emergency supply items are not suitable for packaging in foil pouches. First aid items and food rations, such as granola bars, are best stored in containers with removable lids to allow for frequent rotation.

[AZ Prepper]

Pouch Sealer Instructions
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/92987_FoilPouchStorageInstructionsv3_pdf.pdf


For Portable Operation of AIE (and ME) 305 A1 Sealers

Please read the entire sheet before starting.

Setting up


Place the sealer on a sturdy surface about 5 inches (13 cm) above the table top. This will place the sealer jaw opening about 8½ inches (22 cm) above the table for the correct sealing position. Connect the foot switch to the back of the sealer, and place the foot switch on the floor. Plug in the power cord. Caution: Do not allow children in the area when the sealer is plugged in.
Set Recycle dial to 2, Congealing dial to 6, Sealing dial to 4, and Action Selector switch to Manual.
Open the bag containing oxygen absorbers. Remove the number of packets that you will use in the next 20–30 minutes. Reseal the bag with the impulse sealer. Open and reseal the bag as you need additional groups of absorbers.


Filling pouches


Fill a pouch with one gallon (4 liters) of product. (Overfilling will result in a poor seal.) A two-quart (2-liter) pitcher, cut off at the two-quart (2-liter) line, is a good measure to use in when you are filling pouches. Fill with two level measures, tapped down.
Place an oxygen absorber packet on top of the product in each pouch.
For powdered products, wipe product dust from inside the seal area using a dry towel.


Sealing pouches


Turn the Power switch on. (Do not allow small children in the area when the sealer is on.)
Place the pouch in an upright position in front of the sealer. Rest its weight on the table or shelf; do not let it hang.
Close the pouch by grasping the side seams and firmly pulling them outward. Fold the top 1½ inches of the pouch (30–40 mm) over at a right angle, and push down on the pouch to expel extra air from the package. Settle the product, and flatten the pouch opening. If the top will not flatten and fold over easily, check if the pouch is too full.
Hold the pouch by the side seams, and insert the top edge of the pouch into the jaw opening. Keep fingers clear of the jaw.
Position the pouch to seal it near the top. Stretch outward on the side seams to remove wrinkles. Press the foot switch to activate the sealer. Release hold on the pouch after the jaw closes. Remove the pouch when the cycle is finished.
Label the pouch with contents and packaging date.


Testing seals


Inspect the seams to ensure that they are adequate and without burned spots. The seam should resemble factory seams.
Check to see if the seam can be pulled apart.
Push on the pouch to see if air or product can be forced out.
If seams pull apart, check for inadequate cleaning of seam area or for overfill. If necessary, increase sealing setting by ¼ step (for example, from 4 to 4.25). Verify that the congealing setting is at 6.
If seams are burned, decrease the sealing setting by ¼ step.


Notes


The sealer comes from the factory with two bolts protruding from the front of the machine. These bolts are for holding the shelf provided in the box. Remove the bolts, and do not use the shelf unless it is used as part of a separate stand.
If the Teflon cover on the lower jaw is burned, unplug the sealer, loosen and lift up the cover, and carefully clean off any burrs that may be on the heat strip. Advance the cover approximately ½ inch (12 mm), trim excess, and retighten.
If the sealer fails to operate, check the two fuses mounted in the lower back of the case. If necessary, replace them with fuses of the correct size.
Dry foods that are packaged for long-term storage should be limited to those that best retain flavor and nutritional value. These foods should be low in moisture (approximately 10 percent or less), of good quality, and insect free. Avoid exposing dry foods to humid, damp conditions when packaging them. Warning: Products that are too high in moisture should not be stored in reduced oxygen packaging because botulism poisoning may result. Visit providentliving.org for specific product guidelines.




*For step-by-step instructions with pictures, please download PDF at:
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/92987_FoilPouchStorageInstructionsv3_pdf.pdf

[AZ Prepper]

PETE Bottles for Longer-Term Storage
http://providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/96277_PETEBottleStorageInstructions_v4_pdf.pdf

Bottles made of PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic can be used with oxygen absorbers to store products such as wheat, corn, and dry beans. PETE bottles are identified on the container with the letters PETE or PET under the recycle symbol.



Other types of plastic bottles typically do not provide an adequate moisture or oxygen barrier for use with oxygen absorbers. Do not use containers that were previously used to store nonfood items.

PETE bottles can also be used for shorter-term storage (up to 5 years) of other shelf-stable dry foods such as white rice. Visit providentliving.org for specific product recommendations.

Moisture content of stored foods should be about 10 percent or less. When moist products are stored in reduced oxygen packaging, botulism poisoning may occur.

Packaging in PETE Bottles
1. Use PETE bottles that have screw-on lids with plastic or rubber lid seals. You can verify that the lid seal will not leak by placing a sealed empty bottle under water and pressing on it. If you see bubbles escape from the bottle, it will leak.
2. Clean used bottles with dish soap, and rinse them thoroughly to remove any residue. Drain out the water, and allow the bottles to dry completely before you use them for packaging food products.
3. Place an oxygen absorber in each bottle. The absorbers can be used with containers of up to one-gallon capacity (4 liters). Additional instruction about using oxygen absorbers is available at providentliving.org.
4. Fill bottles with wheat, corn, or dry beans.
5. Wipe top sealing edge of each bottle clean with a dry cloth and screw lid on tightly.
6. Store the products in a cool, dry location, away from light.
7. Protect the stored products from rodents.
8. Use a new oxygen absorber each time you refill a bottle for storage.

Where to Get Oxygen Absorber Packets
Oxygen absorber packets are available at home storage centers and Church Distribution Services, or they can be ordered online at ldscatalog.com. Unused oxygen absorbers can be stored in glass jars with metal lids that have gaskets.

[AZ Prepper]

Storage Conditions
http://providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,7533-1-4064-1,00.html

Storage life can be significantly impacted by the following conditions:


Temperature: Store products at a temperature of 75°F/24°C or lower whenever possible. If storage temperatures are higher, rotate products as needed to maintain quality.
Moisture: Keep storage areas dry. It is best to keep containers off of the floor to allow for air circulation.
Light: Protect cooking oil and products stored in PETE bottles from light.
Insects and rodents: Protect products stored in foil pouches and PETE bottles from rodent and insect damage.