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Pet Food Storage Tips
The quality of your pet’s food after purchasing depends largely on how you store it. Without proper storage practices, pet food can be exposed to temperatures, air, and moisture that can cause spoilage, rancidity, or contamination. Exposure could also result in changes in the taste and texture of the pet food. Many cases of digestive upsets and poisoning can be traced back to improperly stored pet food. To help ensure freshness and preserve the quality of your pet’s food, here are some pet food storage techniques to keep in mind:
Although kibbles are easy to store, like all types of pet food, they are still perishable. While at the pet store, make sure to check the pet food’s expiry or the best before date. Take note, however, that once the dog is opened, this date becomes insignificant as the pet food is exposed to the elements.
Seal the Bag
Properly sealing the bag of pet food minimizes exposure to the elements, contamination, and animals. To seal the bag, roll down its sides, and use a bag clip to close the bag. But if you have airtight containers, it would be a better storage solution.
Storing Dog Food in Airtight Storage Containers
During the manufacturing process of kibble, it is extruded before it’s sprayed with oils. Once dry dog food is exposed to air, the oils start to break down and become rancid. Storing kibble in an airtight container can help prevent this. Ensure that the entire bag of contents together with the packaging is placed in the storage containers. Do not pour out the contents into the container.
Experts recommended that pet food can only be given to dogs for a month after opening if it has been properly stored. Proper storage involves protecting pet food from environmental factors, such as air, high temperature, and moisture, as well as from pests and other animals.
You can use plastic or stainless-steel dog food container. There are pros and cons to each type though. Aside from being easier to clean, stainless steel containers last longer and do not absorb odors, unlike plastic.
No. You can use plastic containers in storing dog food as long as they’re clean, moisture-free, and airtight.
Experts recommend storing the whole bag of dog food inside an airtight container. The bag could provide a barrier to seal in fats and oils and prevent rancidity. With the original bag intact, you will have access to the product’s lot number, ‘best by’ date, brand, manufacturer, and other information that you will need in case of any problem, such as dog food recalls or a defect, and you need to file a complaint about the dog food.
Keep the Dog Food Container Clean
Don’t be tempted to top off the container if the dog food is running low. It’s best to wait until all the contents of the container have been consumed so you can clean it thoroughly with soap and water and let it dry completely before refilling the container with new pet food. Double-check that it’s completely dry since any moisture that is present can encourage the growth of mold and mildew which can be harmful to dogs.
Keep the Dog Food Container in a Cool, Dry Place
This can help prolong the shelf-life of kibble and maintain its nutritional quality. High temperatures can speed up the rate of degradation which can eventually result in the deterioration of food nutrients. Avoid storing dry dog food in a shed or garage where temperatures can reach more than 100F.
Storing Wet Dog Food
If not opened, canned pet food can last months, even years. Cans that have deep dents, appear swollen, or has air bubbles should be discarded. These are important indications that the seal of the product has been compromised and there is already bacterial contamination.
Refrigeration can Preserve Freshness
Once canned dog food is opened, it is best consumed within the day or store the remaining food in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. It’s recommended to transfer the contents of an opened can to a clean airtight container for storing in the refrigerator. Use a rubber band to close foil-packed pet food before placing inside the fridge.