Maximize Shelf Life:
Best Practices for Storing Dried Beans!
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When I think of long-term food storage, the first two food items that come to mind are beans and rice. They are affordable, nutritious, and can be stored for an exceptionally long time. You may wonder just how long they can be stored for, and I will provide the best information I can find but I can also say that they will likely keep for a longer time than I list. Why is this? I have some #10 cans of white beans that are 17 years old. The label on the can says they are good for 6-8 years. Let’s dig into the details of how to store dried beans.
![beans with a label stating storing dried beans](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/how-to-store-dried-beans-1024x683.png)
I decided to write this article because I cooked up some of these 17-year-old beans and did not notice any difference in quality from bag of beans I purchased new and cooked right away. I also did not take any fancy steps like adding baking soda or soaking super long and cooking super long. When I started cooking them, I assumed they may not cook quite as fast as newer beans, so I set my pressure cooker to 35 minutes, with a natural release. I did not presoak the beans. They were perfect. This leads me to speculate that they would easily be good for over 20 years.
![17 year old beans dried and cooked beans](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/17-year-old-beans-1024x683.png)
Shelf Life of Dried Beans - Long-Term Storage Container Options
![storage containers with beans](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/storage-containers-with-beans-1024x683.png)
When it comes to preserving the nutritional value of dried beans for long-term storage, there are several methods you can employ using air-tight containers. You may want to use more than one method since there are so many different varieties of bean types and other foods to store: pinto beans, black beans, white beans, navy beans, red beans, lentils, and even white rice or other whole grains. Ensure the containers you select are food-safe storage containers.
The original packaging from the grocery store offers convenience but typically only keeps beans fresh for about 1 to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place. If you transfer these beans to a vacuum-sealed bag, the shelf life will increase to about 5 years.
For longer-term storage, sealed #10 cans are specially designed to keep beans fresh for about 10 years but possibly 20 years. These can be easily purchased from emergency food storage suppliers.
If you prefer to do your own storage preparations, Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers provide an excellent option, extending the shelf life of beans to 10-15 years.
If you want to store a large quantity of beans, storing beans in 5-gallon buckets with dry ice is a very affordable method for creating a low-oxygen environment.
Mason jars, known for their versatility, offer a reusable and airtight option for storing beans. Adding oxygen absorbers or vacuum sealing can further extend their freshness and preserve their nutritional content.
Proper packaging and labeling with the storage date are essential to ensure the best results when storing beans long-term using various storage methods.
Container type | shelf life |
---|---|
Original Packaging | 1-2 years |
Vacuum Sealed Bags | 5 years |
Mason Jars (vacuum sealed or oxygen absorbers) | 10-15 years |
Mylar Bags (with oxygen absorbers) | 10-15 years |
#10 can | 10-20 years (possibly over 20 years) |
5-gallon Bucket with Dry Ice | 10-20 years |
Beans in the Original Packaging (1-2 years shelf life)
![bag of lentils](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/bag-of-lentils-1024x683.png)
In their original packaging from the grocery store, a new bag of beans can stay fresh for quite a while, usually around 1 to 2 years or as indicated by the expiration date. I have had them last longer but they may require more cooking time. The plastic bags they come in at the grocery store are designed to keep them safe and fresh. Just remember to store them in a cool, dry spot in your pantry to keep them from getting old too quickly. If you find a bag of beans in your pantry that’s still in its original packaging, you can feel confident they are ready to be cooked and enjoyed!
Vacuum Sealed Bags (5 years)
Using vacuum sealer bags, beans have a minimum shelf life of 5 years. These bags, along with a vacuum sealer, suck out all the air, including oxygen, which helps keep the beans fresh. You can also use mason jars with vacuum sealers with even better results.
Mason Jars with Oxygen Absorbers or Vacuum Sealed (10-15 years)
![beans in mason jars](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dried-beans-stored-in-mason-jars-1024x683.png)
Mason jars (canning jars) are one of the best containers for storing beans, rice, or a vast variety of other foods. I love the fact that you can see the food contents, unlike mylar bags, cans, or buckets. The mason jars can also be reused indefinitely. To get the longest shelf life add an oxygen absorber to remove any extra oxygen or use a vacuum sealer to suck out the air before sealing the glass jars.
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Mylar Bags with Oxygen Absorber (10-15 years)
![mylar bag](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/mylar-bag-storing-dry-beans-1024x683.png)
Using mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, a pound of beans can easily last 5 years. Mylar bags are excellent for storing beans because they’re thick and durable, helping to keep out moisture and air. When purchasing mylar bags, be aware of the thickness since some bags are pretty thin.
I love these very thick mylar bags for three reasons:
- The thickness gives me confidence that for a few cents more per bag, I don’t have to worry if the much more expensive food inside is safe.
- They have a zipper lock to reseal in case I only want to use a portion of the food.
- The bottom folds such that the bag stands up on a shelf.
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#10 Can - Commercially Purchased (10-20 years)
![17 year-year-old #10 can dried beans](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/10-can-old-dried-beans-1024x683.png)
In a sealed #10 can, beans can last around 10-20 years. The average person does not have the equipment to do the canning process in #10 cans, so I will only speak to purchasing commercial products.
As I stated above, I just cooked 17 year-old beans that were stored in a #10 can and they are fantastic. Don’t hesitate to try cooking older beans.
#10 cans are specially designed to keep air and moisture out, which helps the beans stay fresh for a super long time. Make sure to store the cans in a cool, dry place.
5-Gallon Plastic Buckets with Dry Ice (10-20 years)
*Most Affordable Storage Option
![beans stored in a bucket with dry ice, how to store dried beans](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/beans-stored-in-a-bucket-with-dry-ice-768x1152.png)
Beans are a very inexpensive and nutrient-dense food. They can also be stored for a long time. Because of these things, storing beans in a large quantity can be an economically good choice. If you want to store a lot of beans, the best way is storing them in various-sized food-grade buckets, up to 5 gallons.
You will need to remove the oxygen to get the longest shelf life when using buckets. This can be done using dry ice. Dry ice turns into a gas heavier than oxygen, forcing the oxygen out of the bucket.
How to store dried beans using dry ice to remove the oxygen when storing in buckets:
- Prepare the Bucket: Ensure the 5-gallon bucket is clean and dry. It’s essential to use a food-grade bucket to store food safely.
- Add a Few Inches of Beans: Add a few inches of beans in the bottom of the bucket so that the dry ice isn’t touching the bucket.
- Add Dry Ice: Wrap the dry ice in a paper towel. Use all safety precautions, such as using tongs to handle the dry ice. Never hold dry ice with your bare hands. Place the dry ice on top of the few inches of beans.
- Add the remaining beans to the bucket:
- Set the Lid Partially Covering – Do NOT seal the lid tightly: With the lid partially on top of the bucket, leave a gap of a couple of inches for the oxygen to escape as the dry ice thaws. Do NOT seal the lid since it could explode off the bucket from built-up pressure. Once the dry ice is thawed for 30-120 min, seal the lid tightly on the bucket. Watch it for a while to see if the lid starts to bulge. If bulging occurs remove the lid to release the pressure, then wait 15 min and repeat the process.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Once the bucket is sealed, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help preserve the quality of the food for long-term storage.
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![Freeze Dryer](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Harvest-Right-Freeze-Dryer-191x300.png)
How to Store Dried Beans Storage in your Pantry
![airtight containers, how to store dried beans in a pantry](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/airtight-containers-1024x683.png)
Storing dried beans in the pantry is easy. The goal is to keep pantry bugs and moisture out.
Choose the Right Container: Use airtight containers. Mason jars are a great option for storing beans in your pantry. Vacuum sealing them will also extend their shelf life. There are also other airtight containers, like OXO containers that are very functional and look great.
Label the container with the purchase date.
Storage Conditions (how to preserve beans for long time)
![how to store dried beans cold storage room](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/cold-storage-room-1024x683.png)
To maintain the quality and a long shelf life of your stored dried beans for many years to come, there are some guidelines, like room temperature, you should consider:
Cool and Dry Environment: The ideal storage location is a cool, dry place. Aim for a consistent temperature between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C) in your storage area. Humid and warm storage temperatures can cause beans to spoil or develop mold.
Dark Location: While not as critical as with some other foods, storing beans in a dark place away from direct sunlight can help maintain their quality by minimizing exposure to light.
Monitor for Pests: Occasionally inspect your storage area for any pests. Even a small infestation can quickly spread and ruin your entire supply.
Can You Store Dried Beans in the Freezer?
Yes, you can store dried beans in the freezer! Freezing dried beans can help prolong their shelf life by preventing them from getting stale or rancid. It’s a great option if you want to store beans for an extended period without worrying about them spoiling.
Here’s how you can store dried beans in the freezer:
- Airtight freezer food containers
- Package Properly: Place the dried beans in an, resealable freezer bags, or vacuum-sealed bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing it.
- Label and Date: Remember to label the container or bag with the type of beans and the date you stored them.
- Prevent Freezer Burn: To prevent freezer burn, you can double-bag the beans or use a vacuum sealer to remove excess air from the bag.
How Can I Prevent Bugs From Infesting My Beans?
I’ve searched for information on this and people have different methods they like but others say those methods don’t guarantee results. Here are some methods I’ve found for you to consider:
Oven Canning Method: Inspect your beans to ensure there are no pests to start with (this doesn’t mean that there are no eggs). After sterilizing your mason jars, fill the jars with the beans. Then ensure the rim is clean and place a new lid and band on the jar. Place jars in a preheated oven, at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 30 minutes. Allow jars to cool then ensure the lid is sealed (when the middle of the lid is pressed the lid doesn’t go up and down). Label with the date and store in a cool dry room.
Thanks to offthefridnews.com for these instructions. Visit their site for more specifics.
Freeze/Thaw/Freeze Method: Place beans in an airtight container and freeze for 3 days. Then remove the beans from the freezer and thaw for at least 24 hours, which will allow any insect eggs to hatch. Freeze the beans again for an additional 3 days to kill any hatched insects. Thaw again. Ensure the beans are at room temperature before storing them with one of the methods listed above.
Thanks to the providentprepper.org for these instructions. Visit their site for more specifics.
Great Recipes You May Like
![collage of refried beans, smothered burrito, canned freeze dried food, canned soup](https://awesomecookingideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/recipes-1024x683.png)
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