Storage for Non-Perishable Food Items

When renting a storage unit, you often plan on storing larger items like furniture or seasonal items that you’ll come back for every few months. However, storage units can be used for so much more, including food. Clifton Rt. 46 Storage offers rental units in Clifton, New Jersey. Here, we explore how you can use one of our units for safe and convenient non-perishable food storage.

What Are Non-Perishable Food Items?

Non-perishable foods, or shelf-stable foods, are goods that are designed not to spoil, even if left out of a refrigerated space. These foods are often found in pantries and come in sealed containers, such as cans, bags, or boxes. Non-perishable foods are typically dry food items, including:

• Pasta
• Cereal
• Crackers
• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Other snacks

The category also includes canned fruits and vegetables that are either dried, preserved, or have had their water removed.

Non-perishable food items are great to have around because they have an extremely long shelf life. For homeowners or those who work in food-service settings, space is limited, so having food items that last is not only convenient but cost-effective.

What To Know About Non-Perishable Food Storage

There are a few things to consider before attempting to store non-perishable food items, including:

Check Items’ Self-Stability

One of the best aspects of these food items is that they can be stored at room temperature for long periods without the threat of spoiling. However, because not all canned or bottled goods are shelf-stable, it’s important that you check each item and make sure it won’t spoil right away.

Assess Your Containers

Those looking to store non-perishable goods should be aware of products in open containers. Those that contain meat and poultry, fruits, vegetables, soups, juices, and similar items will need refrigeration and won’t last long.

Another important note is to consider the containers you’re using. If you’re moving non-perishable items into your own containers, you need to ensure that air and moisture can’t get inside. Airtight glass jars and plastic containers are great because they offer strong seals that keep pests and the elements out while holding in the freshness and flavors of your goods.

Organize Items Properly

It’s also a good idea to research how long each item can be safely stored before it goes bad. This is important because it allows you to organize your goods better, making it easier to know which items need to be used sooner to prevent spoiling in the future. Using a simple “first-in, first-out” policy can help protect against spoiling and wasting money.

Keep an Eye on the Temperature

One of the best aspects of these goods is that they don’t need refrigeration. However, that doesn’t mean the storage temperature for non-perishable foods doesn’t matter. While a room-temperature space will allow them to last, these items will best maintain freshness when kept in a cool, dark space.

Rent Your Storage Unit Today

Whether you have excess goods you need to store safely or want to have food items ready in case of an emergency, turn to Clifton Rt. 46 Storage in Clifton, NJ. We offer units for non-perishable food storage and your other storage needs. We are a family-owned self-storage facility that offers plenty of drive-up units for convenience. Our packing tips can help first-time users prepare, and our competitive rates make it easy to stick with us for months or even years. Contact us today if you have any questions about our policies or other concerns.