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Guide To The Best Mylar Bags For Food Storage

date read icon January 28, 2025
Long-term food storage bags

Want to put a full stop to food wastage? It has been reported that 218 billion dollars worth of food is wasted each year in the USA. Mylar bags are the best to preserve food for the long term. You can secure food for the next 25 to 30 years as well and these mylars are best suited for preserving freshness. These proffer affordability and airtight solutions for anyone who is a homesteader or prepper. Here, the question arises: what are Mylar Bags, and what makes them so useful? The guide below will cover everything from the history, construction and practical applications of best Mylar bags for food storage. 

You will learn why Mylar food bags are essential for any person who wants to protect their food. Moreover, an overview of their efficient utilization is also covered as we want you to know all prospects of these amazing shelf-life savers.

Mylar Bags A Brief History



In an invention, Dupont back in the 1960's introduced mylar films. Mylar materials were initially designed for space explorations. Mylars are not meant for the purpose we use them these days. It is a lightweight and durable material that can reflect light. The film's ability to absorb light, moisture, and oxygen made it a perfect candidate for the protection of sensitive equipment within space.

Mylars applications have expanded over time. In the 1970s, it began to be used for food packaging. This was especially true of items that needed long-term storage. Mylar and aluminum foil combined to create a barrier almost impermeable against air and light. These are perfect for maintaining the nutritional value and freshness of food. These have become a staple in many areas, including emergency preparedness and bulk food storage. These days these have become a prevalent option and are also used for retail packaging. Mylar Bags Made in the USA are the best option for food packaging too.

What is the material of BoPET AKA Mylar?



Mylar bags combine the benefits of both polyester film and aluminum foil. This is their breakdown:

  • Polyester film (Mylar)

The outer layer is made of polyester that is extensively strong enough to resist any punctures. It also acts like a light barrier.

  • Aluminium Foil

 The middle layer preparation is made of aluminum foil that helps prevent any mold, oxygen or moisture from entering the bag. 

  • Polyethylene

It is in the inner layer made from food-grade and safe plastic, which ensures the contents do not come in contact with aluminum.  

These are yet renowned for their protective properties. You can keep your food fresh for longer time intervals. The combination of its materials forms a secure barrier that resists moisture, light and oxygen. Moreover, you will also get to know how thick mylar bags should be for food storage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Mylar

Aspect

Do’s

Don’ts

Mylar Thickness (mm)

Terrestrial Packaging Tips

Sealing

Use a heat sealer or flat iron for airtight seals.

Don't only rely on zip ties or tape; they don't create a proper seal.

0.14 mm (5 mil)

Store in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight.

Oxygen Absorbers

Always use oxygen absorbers to remove residual oxygen.

Don’t use oxygen absorbers in bags with oily or moist foods.

0.10 mm (4 mil)

Use silica gel packs for added moisture control.

Filling

Fill bags up to 75-80% capacity to leave room for sealing.

Don’t overfill; it can compromise the seal and cause leaks.

0.18 mm (7 mil)

Label bags with contents and packaging date.

Storage Environment

You should store them in a dark and cool place for optimal shelf life.

Always ensure that you don't expose bags to extreme temperatures or humidity.

0.14 mm (5 mil)

Use sturdy containers or bins to protect the bags.

Resealable Bags

Use resealable ones for short-term storage or frequent access.

Don’t reuse non-resealable bags after opening; they lose effectiveness.

0.10 mm (4 mil)

Keep resealable bags in easily accessible locations.

Labeling

Label each bag with contents, packaging date, and expiration.

Don’t skip labeling; it can lead to confusion later.

0.14 mm (5 mil)

Use waterproof labels or markers for durability.

Food Types

Store dry foods like grains, beans, and dehydrated meals.

Don’t store liquids or foods with high oil content.

0.18 mm (7 mil)

Use thicker bags for heavy or sharp-edged items.

Customization

Choose customizable bags for specific needs (size, thickness, etc.).

Don’t compromise on quality for cost; invest in durable bags.

Varies

Work with trusted suppliers like Print247 for quality.


Mylar bags are ideal for food storage

These are some of the main reasons they work so well:
  1. Food spoilage is a major cause of oxygen as it can cause the growth of mold and bacteria.
  2. The mylar bag blocks oxygen, so your food will stay fresh for many years.
  3. Light Barrier: Over time, light (especially UV) can cause food to lose its quality. The mylar bag is opaque and prevents light from reaching its contents.
  4. Moisture barrier:  Generally, food is prone to clump or spoil if it is exposed to moisture. Best Mylar bags for food storage also have an aluminum layer preventing moisture from entering into the bag. 
  5. These are resistant to rodents, insects and other pests.
Mylar Heat Seal Bags


With the custom mylar heat seal bags, you will be able to store your products securely. There is a shiny lamentation around them as they provide a transparent appeal. These polished mylars offer built-in anti-reflection and also possess anti-fog properties. It is perfect for various retail uses, and it has been a popular choice. 

Mylar Ziplock Bags



Have you ever wondered about convenience when securing food products? Mylar ziplock bags are a great choice. These are available in various options for conveniently packaging food and other items. With a sealed top, these bags provide extra protection against moisture, oxygen and light. These bags come in various sizes to meet your packaging requirements. 

Some of The Common Dimensions 

Size

Dimensions (approx.)

Small

2" x 2"

Medium

4" x 6"

Large

8" x 12"

X-Large

20" x 30" x 8"


What can you store in Mylar bags?



Mylar bags can be used for a variety of items, including dry goods. These are the items most commonly stored in Mylar Bags:
  1. When you store grains such as rice, wheat, oats and quinoa in these bags, they can be preserved for many years.
  2. Mylar is perfect for storing dry beans, chickpeas, and lentils.
  3. Mylar bags are the perfect solution for flour and sugar, which can become clumpy or spoilt if they're exposed to moisture.
  4. When stored in Mylar bags, dry pasta will last many years.
  5. You can store fruits, vegetables and meats in Mylar bags to preserve them for a long time.
  6. Herbs and Spices: Store your herbs and spices in small Mylar bags to keep them fresh.
  7. Mylar bags are a great way to keep seeds fresh for planting in the future.
  8. Pet food: Store your pet’s food in Mylar bags to keep it fresh and pest-free.

Mylar bags for food storage

These are easy to use, but you should follow a few steps in order to get the best results.
  1. Pick your appropriate bags accordingly. 
  2. Allow some room at the top to seal the bag properly. If you overfill the bag, it can be not easy to seal.
  3. Add oxygen absorbers. Oxygen absorbers are necessary to remove residual oxygen in the bag. The size of the absorber depends on bag volume. A 300cc bag absorber, for example, is ideal for 1-gallon bags.
  4. Seal the bag:  It is integral to airtight seal with the utilization using a heat sealing tool. It can also be done DIY with the use of a flat iron or hair straightener. 
  5. Keep in Dark, Cool Places: Although such bags are opaque, they can be protected by storing them somewhere cool and dark.
Are Mylar Bags Reusable?


You will be amazed that mylar bags are reusable, as there are effective ways to utilize them right away.

What is the role of oxygen absorbers?

Small packets containing iron powder are called oxygen absorbers. These are best for the absorption of oxygen from the air; you can fill nitrogen into a mylar pouch, creating unrivaled protection against bacteria, making it hostile for molds and insects to enter within. 
  • Choose the Correct Size: Make sure the size of your oxygen absorber matches the volume of your bag. If you use a small absorber, it will not be able to remove the entire amount of oxygen. Using a large absorber could cause the bag to collapse.
  • As soon as you add the oxygen absorbers, seal them as quickly as possible.
  • Storage: Store unused oxygen-absorbing absorbers in an airtight jar until ready to use.

Mylar Bags Optimum Way of Secure Packaging

Mylar bags contain a strong polyester film, which provides an effective barrier to light, moisture, and oxygen. These three factors can affect the quality of food over time. Mylar bags, when combined with oxygen absorbers, create an airtight atmosphere that can extend the shelf-life of foods such as grains, beans and dehydrated meals by up to 25 or more years. These days mylar storage bags for food are widely used to create a distinct look and keeping freshness intact.

What to look for when buying 2025 Mylar bags

  1. If your consideration is how thick should mylar bags be for food storage? You should choose bags that are at least 5 mils thick for maximum durability and protection.
  2. Multi-Layered Design: The best Mylar bags are often made with multiple layers. They may even include a layer of metalized Mylar to provide additional protection from light and oxygen.
  3. Resealable Zippers Some of these have resealable zips that make them convenient and reusable for short-term storage.
  4. Bags that have been pre-cut on all three sides and sealed are the easiest to use.
  5. FDA-Compliant Materials: Make sure the bags you use are free of harmful chemicals and food-safe.

The Best Mylar Food Storage Bags in 2025

Check out the best Mylar bags for food storage in 2025.

Heavy-Duty 5 Mil Mylars

  • Perfect for long-term food storage.
  • Available in various sizes (gallon, 5-gallon, etc. ).
  • Compatible with oxygen-absorbing products for maximum shelf life.
Zipper-Resealable Mylar 
  • Ideal for frequent or short-term access.
  • It is best suited to store nuts & dry fruits
  • Maintains freshness even after multiple openings.
These are with oxygen absorbers that are pre-sealed
  • For beginners, it is convenient and easy to use.
  • Included are pre-measured oxygen absorbers to ensure optimal preservation.
  • Ideal for rice, pasta, beans and other grains.
These also possess customizable features
  • You can choose between specific thicknesses and sizes.
  • Ideal for tailor-made storage solutions
  • Businesses or preppers who use large quantities of food often make this type of preparation.

How to use Mylar bags effectively

To prevent spoilage, always pair Mylar and oxygen absorbers.
Seal Properly 
  • A flat iron or heat sealer will ensure an airtight seal.
  • You can also increase the longevity of them when you store them in a dark and cool place.
Labeling Your Bags
  • It is clearly marked with its contents as well as the date it was previously stored. This will make identification easier.
The Smart Packaging
  • These come equipped with QR codes and, AR Tags, NFC tags. This allows you to easily track the storage conditions of your products, their expiration date, or even nutrition information.
Customizable Designs
  • Mylars can be customized for personal or commercial use. They are available in custom sizes and thicknesses and with printed labels.
Reliable Options
  • The newer Mylar bags have stronger and more durable zippers that can be resealed, which makes them ideal for long-term storage as well as everyday use.
Antimicrobial Coatings
  • Mostly, there are high-end Mylar bag designs that now feature antimicrobial protection to protect foods from mold and bacteria, assuring maximum freshness and safety.

Why choose Mylar bags in 2025



These are lighter on your wallet and a reliable solution to preserving food as food storage technologies advance. They are a necessity for anyone who wants to ensure their future food supply.

The best Mylar bags for food storage will combine functionality, durability and ease of use. By using high-quality Mylar storage bags and following the right methods of storage, you will be able to ensure that your food stays fresh and nutritious. Mylars can be used to store food in modern times, whether you are preparing for an emergency or looking to minimize food waste.

How to Maximize the Shelf-Life of Food?

  • For best results, start with dry food of high quality.
  • Mark your bags clearly: Label each bag with its contents and the date it was stored.
  • Do not overfill: Allow enough room at the top to seal properly.
  • Storing in a stable environment: Store your bags out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Why Mylar bags are a Must-Have in 2025

The importance of reliable and sustainable food storage continues to increase as we approach 2025. These are a great way to store food efficiently and cost-effectively. Anyone can use this packaging, whether you are a homesteader or a prepper. They also help reduce food waste.

You can find the largest selection of Mylar bags at Print247. Print247, a packaging leader, offers an extensive range of these that are designed to satisfy all food storage requirements. You can trust Print247 for the functionality, durability and peace of mind you need. Discover our range today to take your first steps towards smarter and more efficient packaging.

The durability of the material and resistance to puncture

Durability is one of Mylar's most impressive features. They are resistant to tears and punctures due to the polyester film coating. This is important when storing them for a long time. To provide extra protection, you should still handle the containers with care.

Customization and Branding



These are a great way for businesses to customize and brand their products. Print247 is a packaging company that specializes in custom Mylar bag creation. We have locations in Rosenberg, TX, Houston, TX, New Jersey and South Florida. Print247 offers high quality Mylar packaging customized to your business, whether you're a retailer or a small business looking for bulk storage options.

Environmental Concerns

You will be amazed that these might not be biodegradable, but still, they have the efficiency to be reused and recycled. After your use you can clean them and reuse them for storing other food items as well.In addition, they can reduce waste by extending the shelf-life of foods.

Last Thoughts

These food storage bags can be a great tool to help preserve food over the long term. The unique design of the bags, along with oxygen absorbers in their construction, provides a safe, nutrient-rich environment for food that will last years. Mylar packaging is an affordable and reliable solution for storing food in bulk, planning for emergencies, or managing a business.

You can get premium quality Mylar bags from Print247 if you're ready to upgrade your food storage. You can rely on Print247 to deliver the best packaging solutions for you.
Understanding the construction and uses of Mylar can is popular for preserving your food. Mylar bags can be used to store a few ounces of rice or for long-term emergency preparations. Get your type of Mylar from us with a fast turnaround time at cost-effective pricing. Avail of top-tier packaging solutions from us as we are the premier packaging company in the United States.

Author: Bill ‘Hogg’ Ryan
AUTHOR

Bill ‘Hogg’ Ryan

Bill is a Houston-based packaging writer with 6 years in the industry. His hands-on career began with printing machines; he has built profound expertise in custom packaging solutions across multiple sectors, including cosmetics, food, and retail. A recognized industry contributor in the State. Bill now shares insights through writing, focusing on packaging trends and innovations. In his leisure time, he can be seen riding his favorite Stallion, ‘Tex,’ or jamming to country music.

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