How to Store Freeze-Dried Dog Food Safely

Proper storage of freeze-dried dog food is crucial to keep it fresh, safe, and nutritious for your pet. Here’s a quick guide to storing it the right way:

Keep it dry: Use airtight, moisture-proof containers to prevent spoilage.
Avoid heat: Store in a cool, room-temperature environment, away from heat sources.
Block light: Use opaque containers or store in a dark pantry to protect nutrients.
Handle carefully: Always use clean, dry hands or utensils to avoid contamination.
Rotate stock: Use older packages first and check for spoilage regularly.

How to Store Dog Food Properly!

What Makes Freeze-Dried Dog Food Different

Freeze-dried dog food offers a longer shelf life compared to regular pet food while preserving its nutritional value. To keep it at its best, understanding how it's made and stored is essential.

Freeze-Drying Process Explained

The freeze-drying process starts with freezing raw ingredients at extremely low temperatures. Next, these frozen ingredients go into a vacuum chamber where moisture is removed through sublimation - turning ice directly into vapor. This method keeps the food's cellular structure and nutrients intact. At Loyal Saints, this process ensures the food retains its natural enzymes and proteins without needing artificial preservatives. The result? A lightweight, nutrient-packed product that requires careful storage to maintain its quality.

Storage Requirements

Because of its unique preservation process, freeze-dried dog food has specific storage needs. Four key factors affect its quality:

Factor	Impact	Storage Tip
Moisture	Can lead to bacteria growth and spoilage	Use moisture-proof containers
Air Exposure	Causes oxidation, reducing nutritional value	Store in airtight containers
Light	UV rays can break down nutrients	Use dark or opaque containers
Temperature	Heat can alter texture and nutrients	Keep at room temperature

Freeze-dried dog food has minimal moisture and no added preservatives, making it more sensitive to its environment. With proper storage, it stays fresh and nutrient-dense for a long time, all while taking up less space than traditional wet food.

Storage Environment Requirements

Proper storage is key to keeping freeze-dried dog food fresh and nutritious.

Temperature and Moisture Control

Keep freeze-dried dog food in a cool, dry place at room temperature. High heat can lower the quality, and humidity may lead to clumping or spoilage. Avoid storing it in spots prone to temperature changes or moisture, like basements or garages. Consistent conditions are best for maintaining quality.

Protection from Light

Exposure to light, especially UV rays, can break down nutrients in freeze-dried dog food. Use opaque or dark-colored containers, or store the food in a spot away from sunlight, like a pantry or a closed kitchen cabinet.

For example, Loyal Saints' freeze-dried dog food stays at its best when stored in a climate-controlled pantry, away from heat and direct sunlight.

Storage Methods and Tools

Original Package Storage

Freeze-dried dog food usually comes in resealable bags designed to keep it fresh. To maintain quality, store the food in its original packaging. After each use, press out excess air and reseal the bag tightly. Make sure the seal stays clean and free from crumbs or debris.

For example, Loyal Saints' freeze-dried dog food includes a double-seal closure system that helps keep the food fresh when sealed correctly. If you need to move the food to another container, choose one carefully to ensure the food stays in good condition.

Container Selection

If you decide to store freeze-dried dog food in something other than its original bag, use an airtight, food-safe container made of BPA-free plastic or glass. Glass mason jars or durable plastic containers with snug lids are excellent options. Be sure to avoid containers that previously stored items with strong odors, as they can affect the food's taste and smell.

Safe Food Handling Steps

Clean Handling

Take care when handling freeze-dried dog food to keep it in top condition. Always wash your hands beforehand to avoid introducing moisture or bacteria. Use a dedicated scoop or measuring cup to maintain hygiene and measure portions accurately. For Loyal Saints freeze-dried food, avoid using wet utensils or hands, as this can affect the food's quality. Keep the scoop in a clean, dry container when not in use.

Stock Rotation

Follow a "first in, first out" (FIFO) system to use older packages before newer ones. Place newly purchased packages behind existing stock to reduce waste and ensure your dog gets the freshest food. Mark the purchase date on each package with a permanent marker. While Loyal Saints freeze-dried food maintains its quality over time, dating packages helps ensure peak freshness. Be just as careful when storing and handling rehydrated food.

Rehydrated Food Storage

Follow these tips for storing rehydrated food:

Keep rehydrated food at 40°F (4°C) or lower.
Use it within 48 hours after rehydration.
Throw out any uneaten portions left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Loyal Saints freeze-dried food is veterinarian-approved and meets AAFCO standards for your dog's health. With its whole ingredients and no unnecessary additives, proper storage helps your dog get the most nutrition from every meal.

Keeping Food Safe from Contaminants

Proper storage isn't just about handling - it’s also about shielding your food from outside threats.

Pest Prevention

To keep freeze-dried dog food safe from pests, use airtight, food-safe containers. These containers act as a barrier against rodents and insects. For Loyal Saints freeze-dried food, transfer it into a secure container to keep critters at bay.

Regular Checks

Make it a habit to inspect storage containers. Look for signs of damage, moisture, or pests, and ensure the seals are intact. Routine checks are key to keeping your dog’s freeze-dried food safe and fresh.

Conclusion

Storage Guidelines Summary

To keep freeze-dried food safe and maintain its nutrients, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Use airtight containers to shield it from pests and other external factors. Check storage areas regularly for any signs of spoilage, and always handle the food with clean, dry hands. Make sure containers are tightly sealed after each use to keep the food fresh.

These steps are key to preserving the quality of Loyal Saints products.

Loyal Saints Storage Tips

Loyal Saints offers practical packaging and advice to make storage easier. As Wanda W. shares:

"The small bags of freeze-dried food are so much more convenient to store, too. Thank you Loyal Saints!" [1]

The pre-portioned packaging not only simplifies storage but also makes portion control a breeze.

Here are some tips to follow:

Keep unopened packages in their original packaging.
After opening, transfer leftover food into an airtight container.
Store containers in a place away from heat and direct light.
Regularly check for any signs of spoilage.

Tony Eiguesse highlights the importance of proper storage:

"I'd rather spend $200 a month on my picky eater and have them happy for years than a couple thousand on vet bills. This food rocks!" [2]