Do I need food-grade buckets if I'm already sealing mylar pouches?

Posted by Tim_Bersau@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 15 comments

I'm storing numerous 5 lbs. bags of various beans & rices in heat sealed & oxygen absorbing packet mylar pouches.

Do I still need food grade buckets on top of that? I was wondering if I could get away with a large, Christmas-tree storage sized Tupperware container with the seal taped off to hold everything more conveniently.

I think I misunderstood; food grade buckets seem to be for food you could drop directly in? Like if I wanted a 5 gallon bucket of rice.

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SysAdmin907@reddit

Lazy shit post. This question has been posted numerous times. Follow rule #2.

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AimlessWalkabout@reddit

You’re spot on about the main purpose of food-grade buckets! They’re primarily for directly storing food without additional layers, like bulk grains or beans. Since your food is already protected in mylar pouches with oxygen absorbers, you’ve taken the most critical steps for long-term storage. Food-grade buckets become less about food safety in your case and more about providing an extra layer of protection against pests, physical damage, and light exposure.

A Christmas tree storage container could work as long as it seals well and keeps out pests and moisture. Just ensure the plastic isn’t off-gassing any strong chemical smells that could affect the mylar over time. Taping it off for better sealing is a good move. Ultimately, the buckets or containers are about convenience and peace of mind—go with whatever fits your needs and space best!

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iwannaddr2afi@reddit

Sorry I don't have time to run through the comments, this may be a duplicate answer.

Mylar can be stored on the shelf if you have no concerns with tearing or other mechanical opening (rodents, cats, toddlers, etc.). You don't need food grade storage buckets if you want buckets, but it's good to be aware of any off gassing or previously contained toxic ingredients. We just use big old storage tubs. They're not airtight and don't need to be.

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Round_Friendship_958@reddit

I use brand new 33gal galvanized steel garbage cans. Double bag contractor bags. Then put the Mylar bags in. Then bungee the lid on. Cans are like $30.

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jwsconsult@reddit

So, I use both, food grade and non. With the mylar, as others have said, it doesn't need to be food grade. One thing to consider though is when you go to actually use this food in a long term situation, are there new uses for the bucket that you might consider that would benefit from them being food grade? I'm not sure on that, but that' one reason I've hedged my bets and used proper food grade buckets for at least some of my stores. Rest, cheapo green menards paint buckets. :)

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Taggart3629@reddit

You do not need food grade buckets for things that are stored in mylar pouches. Consider getting heavy duty totes, like the Home Depot HDX totes for storage. You want a size that you will be able to still lift when it's filled, while being sturdy enough to stack without buckling the lids. A one-gallon mylar bag holds 6-7 pounds of rice.

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Finna_Otter_91@reddit

I'd be worried about mice and other rodents. They could chew right into mylar if they wanted. They can get through plastic too, but it's a lot harder for them.

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DeFiClark@reddit

If rodents yes — and even then it will only protect from mice rats can get into anything

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EverVigilant1@reddit

Not food grade, but you should put them in something that's easy to carry and move. I did 5 gallon buckets. I have a prepping friend who uses large totes. I suggested not using those because they can be too heavy and unwieldy. You have to be able to move and carry your preps.

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kkinnison@reddit

Mylar inside a bucket is more than enough

Food grade buckets will not contaminated the contents that it comes directly in contact with. Something like Frosting, honey, and pickles are stored in food grade buckets.

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Alkali@reddit

You are correct you do not need food grade if they are in mylar. Most people use the 5 gallon buckets though because its good for rodent control and more importantly, its hard to make them too heavy to move. A Christmas tree sized tub full of rice is going to be impossible to move without unloading it first, or breaking the tub. You can just get some Lowes buckets though which are still technically food safe but just not officially rated for it. Home Depot has the good sealing lids if you want that.

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