Wondering How to Store Herbs & Spices in Mylar Bags

Struggling to store herbs and spices for the long-term? Research studies show spices are one of the top five food items that get frequently contaminated. Herb contamination is also very common in American markets. 

To get rid of this contamination, mylar bags serve best to preserve herbs and spices for the long term. Using Mylar bags secures herbs and spices for years while preserving freshness, aroma, and their quality. 

Read this blog to explore how to store herbs and spices in Mylar bags for the long term!

Why Do Herbs and Spices Need Long-Term Storage?

Before diving into how to store herbs and spices in mylar bags, first understand why they need long-term storage. Because they can lose their flavor, aroma, and freshness over time if not properly stored. If they get exposed to light, air, heat, and moisture degrades the volatile oils that give characteristic taste and smell to herbs and spices. As a result, it leads to a less potent and flavorful product. 

But if you use mylar bags, they prolong the shelf life of herbs and spices while preserving freshness and enhancing shelf stability. Consider below shelf life of herbs and spices: 

Shelf Life of Herbs and Spices

Generally, ground spices and herb leaves can be stored for 2 – 3 years. But if you properly store spices and herbs after drying them in mylar bags, which have a relatively longer storage life of 3 -5 years. 

Storage Conditions for Spices and Herbs

There are some certain conditions to consider when it comes to storing spices and herbs. If you choose a cool and dark place to store spices and herbs, it will prolong their shelf life. But you shouldn’t store them in the refrigerator due to humidity, which can change the flavor and taste of stored herbs and spices. 

Contrarily, if you store an airtight container for dried herbs and spices, then you can place them in the refrigerator. Plus, choosing vacuum-sealed mylar bags keeps herbs and spices pristine for a longer time. 

Popular Herbs and Spices to Store in Mylar Bags

Food-grade Mylar bags for herbs and spices are used to prolong shelf life, as well as maintain freshness, aroma, and flavor. Here are some popular herbs and spices to store in Mylar bags:

How to Store Herbs & Spices in Mylar Bags?

To store herbs and spices in mylar bags, first ensure they are completely dried. Then, place them in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers and seal them with a heat sealer. Finally, put them in a dark and cool place. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to store herbs and spices in Mylar bags:

Step 1: Ensure You Dry Herbs and Spices

Dry your herbs and spices entirely to prevent moisture-related issues. Otherwise, mold can grow or cause spoilage. If you properly dry herbs and spices, they will have a brittle texture and easily crumble. 

Step 2: Select the Right Mylar Bags 

Choose Mylar bags, which are thick enough to offer a good barrier against oxygen, moisture, and light. Also, incorporate oxygen absorbers into these bags based on their size. 

For example, a 300cc oxygen absorber is suitable for a one-gallon bag. Oxygen absorbers play a crucial role in preventing spoilage and maintaining quality because they help remove residual oxygen. 

Step 3: Prepare for Proper Sealing

After adding oxygen absorber into mylar bag, leave some space at the top of your chosen bag for a proper seal. Then, consider double sealing the bag for extra protection.

Step 4: Seal the Bags

Create an airtight seal using a heat sealer. Or use a flat iron or hair straightener if a heat sealer isn’t available. But don’t forget to remove as much air as possible before sealing with a vacuum sealer.

Step 5: Store Bag in Cool and Dry Place

Keep sealed Mylar bags in a cool, dark, and dry place. Keep in mind to avoid storing your bags near heat sources or in direct sunlight. 

How to Preserve Herbs in Mylar Bags?

Storing herbs without moisture is a little bit trickier. Hence, follow instructions below to preserve herbs in mylar bags for a long time:

1. Dry the Herbs

Firstly, hang bundles of herbs upside down in a cool, dark, and dry area. Then, use a food dehydrator for quicker drying, especially for larger quantities. Set the oven to the lowest temperature for drying and closely monitor to prevent burning. Ensure herbs are completely dry and crispy before storage.

1. Prepare for Storage 

Choose Mylar bags that are appropriately sized for the amount of herbs you have. Oxygen absorbers are crucial for removing oxygen, which can cause spoilage and reduce shelf life. Use a heat sealer, clothes iron, or hair straightener to create an airtight seal. 

Popular Mylar Bags for Herbs Storage

Mylar bags for herb storage come in various types, each offering unique features for protection and convenience. Some popular types of these bags for herb storage are:
 

• Ziplock Bags: Mylar bags have a resealable zipper, making them convenient for multiple uses. They make accessing herbs easily without compromising the entire bag's seal.
   
• Resealable Bags: These bags usually include a ziplock or adhesive seal. They allow repeated opening and closing, keeping the herbs fresh for longer.
   
• Vacuum Sealer Bags: These bags are designed for long-term storage. They are sealed after air is removed using a vacuum sealer, which significantly slows down the degradation of spices. 

Popular Mylar Bags for Spice Storage

Storing spices long-term in popular mylar bags offers a stable and attractive display for retail and online orders. Some of these bag types are:

• Heat Sealed Mylar Bags: These bags are designed for permanent sealing, often used for long-term storage. With the help of a heat sealer, these bags are securely closed.
   
• Zipper Mylar Bags: These are ideal for spices that are used frequently. The zipper closure allows easy opening and closing while maintaining a good seal after each use. 

• Vacuum Sealed Bags: Vacuum sealing helps retain the essential oils and volatile compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of spices, preventing them from dissipating. 

Where to Find Custom Mylar Bags for Herbs and Spices Storage! 

Since you have explored blogs in detail on how to store herbs and spices in mylar bags, it’s crucial to customize mylar bags carefully and precisely. To craft perfect mylar bags, look for a reliable packaging supplier like Custom Boxes Lane. We help you design Mylar bags that not only preserve spices and herbs for a longer time but also enhance visual appeal.