Oxygen absorbers. You have heard about them and if you have done even the most basic research into long term food storage, you know that they are a necessary component when sealing up dry goods for the long haul. But what are they? Why are they necessary? And how are they used?

Learning about Long Term Storage

The very first item I purchased for my survival pantry was a 25 pound sack of pinto beans. Of course back then, I thought I would simply store the big bag in the garage and let it sit there until I needed it – you know, set it and forget it. Luckily, I did my research and learned first and foremost that beans indeed have a shelf life and will turn as hard as rocks if not properly packaged and maintained in a cool, moisture free environment. Who knew?

The light bulb came on as I was reading John Hill’s book How to Live on Wheat. It was this little book that taught me not only about wheat (living and dead) but about storage containers, Mylar bags, desiccants, and yes, oxygen absorbers. So, being the smarty pants that I am, I purchased a package of Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers and, with the help of Survival Husband, sent the beans flying as we learned the secrets of packaging. (You can read all about this adventure in my article titled Getting Prepared Week 20: Hands on with Mylar Bags, Beans and the FoodSaver.)

Which brings me around to the present. Never one to believe something unless I check things out myself, I wanted to know what was in these little packets and how could I learn to use them effectively for long term food storage.