As I visit with so many of you, I hear far too many stories that folks store their dog food in the garage and wonder why the food spoils or that roaches or mice get into the food. It is just too hot in Texas to ever store food in the garage – including the wintertime.
The best way to store food is to place the actual bag inside a metal or plastic container. My favorite is a steel galvanized metal can with a lid. The 20-gallon can will hold a 30 lb. bag of dog food. Plastic, glass or metal bins can also help protect dog food from the elements and from insects, rodents and other Texas sized vermin that can create unhealthy and unsanitary conditions.
Keep Kibble Foods in the Bag
Although it may be more convenient to open a bag of kibble and dump it in a metal or plastic trash can for storage, discarding the original bag isn’t a good idea. The bags are designed to keep the foods fresh and without spoilage for quite a while. Plus, if there’s a problem with the food later, you’ll want the information that’s on the bag, especially the lot number. Once the bag is opened, roll the top to close it, and use a clip or clamp to keep it tight.
Rotate the Older Food to the Top
To keep your dry dog food as fresh as possible, just as you rotate your food, pour the old food over the new food. This way the oldest food is always used up first.
Store the Bin in A Pantry or a Shelf
It is best to store the dog food away from damp or humid environments like a bathroom. Even in a sealed bin, dog food can become moldy. All that it takes is a little moisture seeping into the container. Exposure to air means exposure to bacteria. Don’t store pet foods (even unopened bags or cans) in the garage or shed where temperatures can go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Canned Food Tips
Unopened canned pet foods have a long shelf life. Opened canned food should be stored in the refrigerator with a tight sealed lid or aluminum foil. Once a can has been opened, you can transfer the unused portion to an airtight container and refrigerate the food for up to five days. Keep an eye on the ‘use by’ dates. Each time you buy more food, move the older cans to the front of the shelf and put the newer ones in the back.
By implementing these easy procedures, you’ll keep your dog’s food fresh avoiding bad bacteria and spoilage.
