Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Bulk Food Storage: More Tips

If storing grains and cereals in large containers:

Get air tight containers. Plastic containers encourage more condensation.

Use dry ice treatment: This removes oxygen the critters need to live. Using heavy gloves, place several ounces of dry ice in the bottom of the container, slowly pour the grain on top of the grain. Let stand covered, BUT NOT SEALED without disturbing for 12 hours. The air in the can is driven out by the CO2 gas which fills the container from the bottom. After 12 hours, seal the container, but check every 12 hours for any signs of pressure. If the CO2 continues to dissolve, it can push the top off or blow out the sides! Vent any excess pressure, then reseal the container.

Some more advice on diatomaceous earth (DE): Edible diatomaceous earth is a natural combination of silica and trace minerals which has not been heat treated and is available from survivalists via the internet. It acts by drying out insects and eggs so they die. It is not poisonous, or can be washed off whole grains. To use DE, mix 1 ounce (2 teaspoons) mixed into a five pound jar of grains. Mix 1 pound (just under 3/4 cup) in each 100 pounds of grains.

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