Today, let's talk about a common misconception that many people may have: the issue of storing pet food. After opening pet food, it is usually eaten for a month or so. Cats with small appetites can be paired with large packages of cat food, which can last for several months in one bag. Pet parents are more concerned about the nutrition and quality of pet food, but they tend to overlook storage issues.
Why is proper storage important?
Pet food is a high protein and high-fat food, and if stored improperly, it can have two consequences: spoilage and nutrient loss. Pet food has a shelf life, but even if it has not expired after opening, it may still spoil due to three common reasons: prolonged exposure to air, humidity, and high temperature. Even if pet food is not completely spoiled, the special odor of oxidized fat can easily be disliked by furry children. If a furry child suddenly stops eating their regular pet food one day, it may not be due to boredom or cravings, but rather due to improper storage causing changes in the food's odor.
Is it possible to seal the box?
Many pet raising families will pour pet food into various sealed boxes to isolate the air, making it easy to use and retrieve. But in fact, this storage method, which only looks beautiful, has many problems when used. When pet food is consumed less and less, the air inside the sealed box will increase, which may seem to isolate the air, but it is still exposed to the air.
A sealed box that can be evacuated.
There are also many sealed boxes on the market that can be vacuumed. After each grain is taken, it can be vacuumed with one click to ensure air isolation. This type of pet food storage tool is naturally better than ordinary sealed boxes, at least without worrying about air exposure. The only thing to note is that the sealed box needs to be cleaned regularly. If left unwashed for a long time, there is still a risk of pet food spoilage if left inside. To my knowledge, very few people regularly clean the containers used to store pet food.
The original packaging is the best packaging.
An easily overlooked fact is that the original packaging of pet food is often the best storage container. Because the original packaging has been carefully designed by the merchant, it is more conducive to long-term preservation of pet food. (Of course, inferior pet food is excluded.) In addition, product information such as production date is printed on the packaging and can be viewed at any time to avoid expiration.
After opening the pet food, it is recommended to store it in its original packaging. If the original packaging is too large, it can be packaged in a small aluminum foil sealed bag, and if conditions permit, it can be vacuumed. After each feeding, try to squeeze out excess air from the bag as much as possible. Seal those with self sealing strips directly, seal those without self sealing strips with sealing clips, and then place them in a sealed food box. Discard the original packaging or packaging bag directly after use, which also reduces the trouble of cleaning.
What is the most suitable packaging size for pet food?
I personally do not recommend everyone to purchase pet food in oversized packaging, because no matter how careful they are, storing pet food after opening is always a challenge. Pets have varying amounts of food intake. It is recommended that a bag of pet food be opened and consumed within a month. You can choose the appropriate packaging size based on this standard. Unopened pet food can be stored at room temperature and away from light according to the instructions on the product packaging.
Even when hoarding grain, it is best to stock up on a few small packages rather than one large package.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for your pet's health.
