The pet food storage is an important issue for all pet owners. The proper storage of the food can preserve the qualities of the food, while an unsuitable storage may spoil the food and affect the pet’s health. The storage condition requirements depend on the type of the food chosen and the ingredients of the food, as well as the types of preservatives used. Typically, dry food can be stored for several months. Canned food may also be kept for months, but once opened, the can must be consumed within a few days.
Dry Food Storage
The dry food has a longer shelf life and may be stored in a cool, dry place. Once the package is open, you should look for a few storage bins that close hermetically. The air can make the food go bad.
The kibble food that contains synthetic preservatives is less prone to going bad and may be kept in a dry place. The moisture can spoil the food.
As long as the bin where the food is kept is hermetically sealed, the food can last several months without going bad, so you may purchase value packs of pet food.
Foods that contain natural preservatives have a shorter shelf life and should be eaten within 1 month of opening the package. The package should also be kept in the freezer to preserve the freshness of the food, as the natural preservatives don’t have the capacity of keeping the food fresh as long as the other synthetic preservatives do. However, foods prepared with natural preservatives are healthier.
Wet Food Storage
The canned food should also be stored in a cool and dry place. Once the can is opened, it should be kept in the refrigerator and should be fed to the pet within 2 days. You should also move the contents from the can to a sealable container.
The wet food shouldn’t be kept outside, as it dries and the pet may refuse to eat it.
Also, the food may get oxidized and may not be healthy.
Storage Bins
The dry food should be kept in storage bins after the package is opened. It is important that the bins are airtight. The contact with air may spoil the food. In addition, if the bin is not properly closed, it may be a great target for ants or other bugs.
Screw top bins are practical and will also prevent the children from opening them.
Once the package is opened, you may pour the contents directly in the bin.
Metallic or wooden bins are more recommended than plastic bins. Plastic bins gather more bacteria. Other softer materials aren’t recommended, as they may be chewable, by pets or mice.
You can also opt for food dispensers, which can be more practical.
Make sure the bins you choose have a suitable size. The smaller the kibble size, the more food you can put in a recipient; larger kibble will require more storage space.
Look for stackable containers if you have to use several pet food bins.