The Ins of Freeze Dried Food: Why it Should be a Staple in Your Pantry
When it comes to preparing for any emergency or camping trip, having a reliable source of food is crucial. Freeze dried food is becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking for a long-lasting, lightweight and nutritious food source. But what exactly is freeze dried food and why should you consider adding it to your pantry? In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the ins and outs of freeze dried food and why it’s a great investment for any food storage plan.
What is Freeze Dried Food?
Freeze dried food is food that has been dehydrated and preserved through a process called sublimation. In this process, the food is frozen, and then placed inside a vacuum chamber where the water is removed via evaporation without thawing the food. This results in a product that’s extremely lightweight, has a long shelf-life of up to 25 years, and retains 97% of the food’s nutrients. The process is used mostly for fruits, vegetables, and meats though a variety of other items may be freeze-dried.
Why Freeze Dried Food?
- Long Shelf Life
As mentioned before, freeze dried food has a shelf-life of up to 25 years. This is largely due to its unique preservation process which removes almost all of the water and oxygen which are two factors that contribute to food spoilage. This makes it an excellent option for emergency food or for anyone looking for a low-waste food option that can last through travel or extended periods where fresh food may not be available.
- Lightweight and Convenient
Freeze dried food is lightweight and easy to store, making it ideal for packing and taking on-the-go. This makes it a perfect food source for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and backpacking. When compared to canned or pre-packaged foods, freeze dried foods take up significantly less space and weigh significantly less.
- Nutritious
Freeze dried foods retain almost all of the original nutrients of the food, thanks in part to the unique preservation process. This means that you can get your recommended daily dose of fruits and vegetables without having to worry about the loss of nutrients that other preservation methods may cause. Additionally, many freeze-dried foods are prepared with no additional preservatives, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage of Freeze Dried Food
When properly stored, freeze-dried food can last anywhere from 5-25 years, depending on the product. To ensure its longevity, it needs to be stored in a cool, dry place with limited exposure to light and air. This means keeping it in an opaque, airtight container that is somewhere between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to avoid storing your freeze-dried food in an area that may be subject to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight as both can negatively impact the shelf life of the food.
Cooking with Freeze Dried Food
Cooking with freeze-dried food is an easy process with many advantages. Simply rehydrate the food by adding it to hot water, or use it as a dry ingredient in a variety of meals. Most freeze-dried meals come in resealable packaging, making it possible to use only the amount of food that you’ll need for a particular meal, minimizing unnecessary waste.
Conclusion:
Freeze dried food is a versatile and convenient option that’s a great investment for any food storage plan. Whether you’re preparing for an emergency, planning a camping trip, or looking for a nutritious addition to your pantry, freeze dried food provides a long-lasting, lightweight and food source that maintains its nutritional value. Additionally, cooking with freeze-dried food is an easy and quick process that yields delicious and healthy results. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or someone looking to start a sustainable food storage plan, freeze-dried food is a smart and practical option.
