If you are interested in storing dry food on a budget, I have some great news for you! Two liter soda bottles are the way to go. Actually not just soda bottles, but also any plastic bottle from shelf stable juice or fruit drinks. Basically any bottles that have screw on lids with a rubber lid seals. The bottles must have been originally made to store food or drink.
These bottles are made of PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) and you can identify them by looking under the recycle symbol where it will say PETE or PET. Only these types of bottles can be used for storage, as other types of plastic bottles are not adequately moisture or oxygen proof.
Soda bottles are only good for storing dry food, such as white rice, dry beans, corn, and wheat. When storing these item in bottles, you need to use moisture absorbers. Moisture absorbers, called oxygen absorbers, are small sealed packets of iron powder. Any moisture and oxygen in the bottle will be absorbed by the powder, therefore ending any possibility of mold and bugs developing.
To use soda bottles for storage you should:
1. Clean the bottle and lid with dish soap, and rinse thoroughly.
2. Let stand to dry until there is no moisture left at all.
3. Place in one packet of oxygen absorber. (one packet is good for up to 4 liters)
4. Pour in the food to be stored
5. Wipe the edge with a dry cloth, place a piece of plastic wrap over the opening and screw the lid on tightly.
6. Store the bottles in a cool, dry place away from light, or better, in a cabinet or cardboard box.
Storing food is a good idea, for lots of reason, you don't have to be a survivalist. You may need it if you lose your job, lose power, or have unexpected long-term guests. The most important thing to remember about stored food it that is needs to be rotated; used and refilled. Nothing stays good forever, remember that!
Have a great rest of the week!
Jade :)
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