The #10 cans for food storage are more than just a big tin can; they’re handy for keeping food safe and fresh.
If you want to plan meals and keep food for a long time, knowing about can sizes, like the #10 can, is helpful. Its versatility and enormous capacity have made it a go-to for many people.
#10 cans are popular among preppers, home chefs, and restaurants, but what exactly is it? From its material makeup to its ideal usage, we delve into all the intricate details you need to know. Read on to learn more about its use for large food storage systems.
A number 10 can is a large, cylindrical metal container commonly used for storing and preserving food in bulk. Used primarily for commercial food storage, this can is a staple in various industries.
It measures approximately 6.25 inches in diameter and 7 inches in height, with a volume of roughly 109 ounces (3.1 liters). When empty, it weighs approximately about 9 ounces.
You can use it to hold dry goods such as flour, sugar, and grains.
The origins of the #10 can date back to the early 20th century when it was first introduced as a convenient and efficient way to package food for the military.
Today, the number 10 can have become popular due to its versatility and durability. It can hold various food items, including fruits, vegetables, soups, sauces, and dry goods like pasta and grains.
Plus, the can’s airtight seal helps preserve the food’s quality and freshness, making it a reliable option for long-term food storage and emergency preparedness.
What Are #10 Cans Made Of?
Number 10 cans are usually made of tinplate. Tinplate, also known as electrolytic tin-coated steel, is produced using electrolytic deposition. This involves coating a thin layer of tin onto a sheet of steel, creating a strong, durable material resistant to rust and corrosion. This construction material is particularly useful for long-term food preservation.
To protect the food inside, commercially packed #10 cans are lined with either acrylic or R enamel. This lining prevents the food from touching the inside of the can, which can cause corrosion and affect the taste and quality of the food. However, this is commonly used when the food contains liquids.
Capacity
The capacity of a number 10 can is substantial, making it ideal for storing large quantities of food.
But how many ounces are in a number 10 can? A #10 can hold approximately 105 to 117 ounces of food. That’s why it’s ideal for storing large quantities, particularly for commercial or long-term storage.
When purchasing food in a #10 can, the weight on the label will reflect the net weight of the contents, not the volume.
Some foods, such as grains or dehydrated fruits and vegetables, may have a higher volume-to-weight ratio. This allows you to store more of the product in the same amount of space.
On the other hand, denser foods, like canned meats or sauces, may take up more space for the same weight.
To determine how much food you’ll get from a #10 can, consider the serving size and number of servings per container listed on the label. This can help you gauge how much food is available and how long it may last based on your consumption habits.
How Are #10 Cans Produced?
The production of #10 cans involves cutting a sheet of tin-coated steel into circles, forming the circles into the shape of a can, and lining the can with a food-grade coating. Quality control in production ensures the can’s integrity for long-term storage.
You can fill the can with the desired food product and seal it with a lid. The lid is typically made from the same material as the can and is crimped onto the top to create a secure seal.
Comparing the Common Can Sizes
Unlike the smaller 12-ounce cans, a #10 can provides more value in bulk storage. This size is particularly popular among large families and foodservice operations.
Always consider can sizes when buying canned products for cooking, meal planning, or storing your pantry. The size of your can affects how much food it can hold and may change how you measure your ingredients.
Here are the different can sizes to compare with the number 10 can.
As you can see from the table, a #10 can hold around 105 ounces or approximately 13 cups of content. This makes it an excellent option for storing and preserving large quantities of food.
Why Use a #10 Can for Storage?
The #10 can can protect food against external elements like air and moisture, extending its shelf life. With its robust design, it’s an ideal choice for both emergency and everyday use.
Here are some of the key reasons why people opt for the number 10 cans when it comes to food storage:
Long Shelf Life. When properly stored, number 10 cans can keep food fresh and safe for several years. The airtight seal and protective metal lining prevents contamination and spoilage.
Economical. Buying food in bulk is generally more cost-effective than purchasing smaller quantities. Using number 10 cans allows you to take advantage of these savings, as they are designed to store large amounts of food efficiently.
Durability. The sturdy metal construction of number 10 cans ensures they can withstand transportation and storage without being damaged. This means the food inside remains well-protected, and you can stack the cans without crushing the contents.
EnvironmentallyFriendly. Number 10 cans are recyclable, which helps reduce waste in landfills. Their long shelf life and storing food in bulk contribute to reducing food waste and packaging waste.
Versatility. #10 cans are suitable for storing various food items, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and prepared meals, makingthem an excellent choice for both home and commercial use.
EmergencyPreparedness. In a natural disaster or other emergencies, having a stockpile of non-perishable food items is essential. Number 10 cans provide a reliable and long-lasting storage solution that can help ensure you have enough food on hand during an emergency.
How To Store Number 10 Cans
While #10 cans can last for several years, proper storage is essential to get the most of their shelf-life. Knowing the right environment and conditions for these cans can not only save you space but also preserve the nutritional value of your stored goods.
Temperature and Humidity
To maximize the shelf life of your canned food, store number 10 cans in a cool, dry place, with a temperature between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). A cool, dark place is generally best for long-term storage.
Maintaining stable temperature conditions ensures the contents remain in optimal quality. High temperatures and humidity can accelerate the deterioration of the food and cause the cans to rust.
Pest Control
Ensure your storage area is clean and free of pests as rodents and insects can damage the cans and compromise the food inside.
The metal construction is usually sufficient to deter most pests. Additional measures like sealed containers can provide an extra layer of protection. Also, regularly inspect your storage area for signs of infestation and take appropriate measures to address any issues.
Rotation
Regularly rotating your stock prevents food from spoiling. Consider keeping an inventory system for an effective rotation.
Use the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Place new cans behind older ones, ensuring you use the oldest ones first. This helps maintain the freshness and quality of your stored food.
How To Open and Use Number 10 Cans
10 cans are a popular choice for storing bulk foods and emergency supplies, but many people are unsure how to properly open and utilize them.
Armed with the right tools and techniques, you can easily access the contents and extend the life of your stored goods.Now let’s explore how to properly open and use a #10 can.
Using a Can Opener
Use a manual or electric can opener to open your cans. Be careful when handling the can, as the edges can be sharp once opened. After opening, the contents should be used or transferred for maximum freshness.
Repackaging and Storage
Transfer food into an airtight container for storage. This will help maintain the food’s freshness and prevent spoilage. Using vacuum-sealed bags is a popular choice for repackaging.
Prepare the Food
Most foods in number 10 cans are pre-cooked and just require reheating. Depending on the type of food in the can, you may need to drain excess liquid, rinse, or rehydrate before incorporating it into your recipe. Follow the specific preparation instructions for the food item.
Use the food from the Number 10 can in your recipe as directed. You can serve some foods, like canned fruits or vegetables, directly from the can after draining and rinsing, if necessary.
Store Any Leftovers
Storing leftovers properly minimizes waste and extends usability. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume the leftovers within a few days to ensure they remain fresh and safe.
Popular Brands and Where to Buy
Knowing where to buy and which brands to trust is essential. Several popular brands offer food in number 10 cans, such as Mountain House, and Augason Farms. You can find these cans at warehouse stores, specialty food retailers, and online platforms like Amazon.
FAQs About Number 10 Cans
How long can food last in a number 10 can?
An unopened number 10 can can preserve food for several years, often ranging from 2 to 5 years or even more, depending on the type of food and storage conditions.
How do I store opened number 10 cans?
If you’ve already opened your #10 can, transfer unused contents to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. While they may last several days when refrigerated, it’s best to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming them.
What types of food are stored in number 10 cans?
Number 10 cans are commonly used for preserving and storing various food items such as fruits, vegetables, meats, soups, sauces, and even dry foods like grains and beans.
Are #10 cans recyclable?
Yes, number 10 cans are typically made of steel or aluminum, which are both recyclable. Be sure to rinse the can thoroughly to remove any food residue before recycling.
Can I use a number 10 can for home cooking or meal preparation?
Number 10 cans are suitable for home cooking and meal preparation, especially when cooking large quantities of food.
They can be a cost-effective and convenient option for those who like to batch cook or prepare meals in advance. However, remember that the large size may be impractical for smaller households or storing leftovers.
Key Takeaways:
Number 10 cans provide an efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly way to store food for the long term. From its sturdy construction to its multipurpose utility, the #10 can is a versatile storage solution.
By understanding their history, uses, and benefits, you can make informed decisions about incorporating these cans into your food storage plan.
What are some of your favorite food items that come in a #10 can?
Rice is one of the most universally accepted foods on the planet. And because it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to store long term, it’s a no-brainer for the dedicated prepper.
It seems like every other visit to Costco my wife and I are grabbing a bag of rice… So we decided to write this guide to help you and other prepper’s understand how to properly store rice long term.
Before we dive into the methods, it’s important to understand the basics of rice storage. Rice is susceptible to moisture, insects, and oxygen, affecting its quality and shelf life. To store rice long term, you need to protect it from these elements.
Rice preservation is about controlling temperature, air, and moisture to keep your rice fresh and flavorful. The key to successfully store rice long term begins with the following:
● Selecting the right type of rice
● Preparing it for storage
● Storing in appropriate containers
● Maintaining the environment where you will store rice long term.
Factors to Consider When Storing Rice Long-Term
Before talking about different rice storage techniques, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect rice storage. These factors include:
Types of Rice
Different types of rice have different storage requirements.
Rice Type
Shelf-life
Shelf-life When Stored Properly
White
2 years
30+ years
Brown/Black/Purple
6 months
1 – 1.5 years
Wild
10 years
30+ years
As you can see, different types of rice have different shelf lives. And how you store rice long term can make all the difference. So it’s crucial to consider the type of rice you want to store and adjust your storage plan accordingly.
Temperature
The best storage temperature for rice is between 40 – 70°F. Ideally, you should store your rice in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. It’s best to store rice long term in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a basement or root cellar.
Pests
If you’ve ever stored rice for a long period of time, you may have come across rice bugs, also known as weevils. These pests are small and reddish-brown and can easily infest rice, flour, and other grains. They can quickly reproduce and contaminate large quantities of stored food if left unchecked.
Fortunately, the presence of these bugs does not mean your rice is unsafe to eat. However, it does mean that you need to take steps to keep them away.
My family and I have experienced rice weevils first hand. They are much smaller than you might think to the naked eye and could easily be dismissed as specks of dirt or debris. My wife has always rinsed rice a few times before cooking it and on this one occasion she was greeted with some uninvited dinner guests.
As she started to rinse the rice, she noticed multiple tiny brown specks and realized “We Had Rice Weevils!” She immediately took the rest of our rice from the cabinet and put it in the freezer to kill in eggs & pests.
Then, she continued rinsing, stirring and discarding the water about 20 times until she got rid of most of the floating weevils. Next she cooked the rice as normal and it turned out great, no change in taste and it was delicious. You would never even know the difference.
I’m sure there was still a few rice weevils left that got cooked and added to our protein for the night, but we are fine with that. It makes for a good story our kids can tell their friends about the time we had bugs for dinner.
Some people might not rinse it at all & cook as normal knowing that the weevils and their eggs are harmless to humans. I know in an SHTF situation, we will not be wasting water to rinse weevils from our rice & the added protein is a benefit.
Although our bulk storage is in airtight containers, my wife liked to keep the rice we use frequently in a container with pop up lid for easy pouring. It was not air tight, the convenience was not worth it and we learned a valuable lesson.
Here’s how to kill rice weevils:
● Check the rice for bugs. It’s important to remove pests before storing rice long-term because if you aren’t aware and put in in storage they will continue to multiply.
● One way to kill rice bugs is to freeze the rice for several days. This will kill the bugs and their eggs, ensuring that they don’t return.
● Alternatively, you can heat the rice in the oven at 140°F for 30 minutes, killing the bugs and their eggs. It’s important to inspect your rice for signs of bugs before storing. After you’ve put in the effort to prepare your rice supply, the last thing you want is infestations of pesky insects.
Rinse Rice Weevils Away:
Simply rinse, stir, drain water & repeat until you can no longer see any floating on the top of the water. Then cook as normal. Use one of the steps above to kill any weevils or eggs remaining in your uncooked rice storage.
Check out our video on rinsing the rice weevils away:
Oxygen
Oxygen can also affect the shelf life of rice. When exposed to oxygen, rice can oxidize, resulting in rancidity and spoilage. Therefore, it’s crucial to store rice long term in airtight containers and use oxygen absorbers to remove any remaining oxygen.
Moisture
Moisture is one of the most critical factors to consider when storing rice long-term. Rice should be stored in a dry environment to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can cause spoilage. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the storage containers are airtight and moisture-proof.
What You’ll Need to Store Rice Long Term
Storage Containers
To store rice long term, you’ll need a storage container. Choose airtight, moisture-proof containers large enough to hold the amount of rice you want to store. Here are some examples:
Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are airtight, and if used with oxygen absorbers you can extend the shelf life of the rice significantly. These bags are an effective way to store rice long term to prevent bugs. However, you must seal them properly. You can vacuum seal mylar bags and add oxygen absorbers to remove all the air from the bag, preventing oxidation and spoilage.
Food-Grade Buckets
One of the most popular alternatives to Mylar bags for long-term rice storage is food-grade buckets. Food-grade buckets are made from high-density polyethylene and are designed specifically for food storage. They come with airtight lids that help to keep the rice fresh for a long time. These 5-gallon buckets are inexpensive and easy to find at hardware stores and online retailers. They come in various sizes, so you can choose the one that suits your storage needs. 5-gallon buckets are most common and are a staple for most prepper’s. In addition to food stores, these can be used to store all kinds of items.
Glass Jars
Glass jars are an excellent option for storing rice in small quantities. They are airtight and do not allow air or moisture to enter the jar. However, they are not the best option for storing large quantities of rice.
Oxygen Absorbers
Oxygen absorbers are small packets that contain iron powder. When placed in an airtight container with rice, they absorb the oxygen inside the container, creating an oxygen-free environment. This prevents oxidation and ensures that the rice stays fresh for a longer time.
Here’s a guide to how many oxygen absorbers you should use.
Container Volume
Recommended Amount ofOxygen Absorbers
½ gallon
200cc – 500cc
1 gallon
300cc – 600cc
1.5 gallon
1000cc
2 gallons
1000cc – 2000cc
5-6 gallons
2000cc
Chart showing amount of oxygen absorbers needed per gallon.
Labeling your rice storage containers with the type of rice and the expiration date is important. This way you not only stay organized, but ensure that all stored items remain fresh and edible for as long as possible.
How to Store Rice Long Term Using Mylar Bags
1. Gather your supplies: rice, Mylar bags, oxygen absorbers, measuring cups, iron, and a container to hold the rice bags.
2. Measure out the rice and add the recommended amount of oxygen absorbers.
3. Fill the Mylar bags with rice. Leave some space at the top for sealing and oxygen absorbers.
4. Add oxygen absorbers to the bag. Place the oxygen absorbers on top of the rice before sealing.
5. Use an iron set to medium-high heat to seal the top of the Mylar bag, leaving a 2-inch gap for the oxygen absorbers.
6. Drop the oxygen absorbers into the gap and immediately seal it closed with an iron or hair straightener.
7. Write the date and contents on the outside of the bag and place it in a container in a cool, dry place.
Tips on How to Store Rice Long Term Without Mylar Bags
If you’re looking for other ways to store rice long term, but don’t have access to Mylar bags, here’s what you need to know:
● Use food-grade containers like mason jars, plastic buckets with lids, and sealable bags are all good options. Make sure they’re clean and dry before use.
● Add oxygen absorbers. These small packets are available online or in stores. These will help remove any remaining oxygen from the container. Add one or two per container, depending on its size. When it comes to oxygen absorbers, err on the side of abundance — you can never use too many.
● Store your rice in a cool, dry place. Aim for temperatures between 40-70°F with low humidity. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Tips On How To Store Rice Long Term To Prevent Bugs
● Clean and inspect rice before storage. Make sure to choose high-quality rice that’s clean, dry, and free of insects or eggs.
● Use airtight containers to prevent bugs from entering.
● Add bay leaves, garlic, or pepper to repel insects. Replace them every few months to maintain their effectiveness.
● Store rice in cool, dry, and dark places to discourage insect growth.
● Use rice within its shelf life to avoid infestations.
● Rotate your rice supply. Use the oldest rice first and replace it with fresh rice as needed.
FAQs About Storing Rice Long Term
Why use rice for food supply?
Rice is an excellent choice for emergency food storage because it is affordable, easy to store, and has a long shelf life. It is also a great source of energy, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, making it a versatile and healthy option.
What is the best storage container to store rice long term?
Airtight containers are the best choice. These include food-grade buckets, mylar bags, and glass jars.
How much rice should I store?
It’s recommended to store 300 lbs of grains per person for a one-year supply. Depending on personal preference and dietary needs, you can store 25 to 60 lbs per person.
How long can you store rice in a Mylar bag?
You can store rice long term in a Mylar bag for up to 25 years if stored in optimal conditions.
How often should I rotate my rice storage?
Rotating your rice storage every 1-2 years is recommended to ensure freshness.
Do you need oxygen absorbers for rice storage?
Yes, oxygen absorbers are recommended for rice storage. Rice contains natural oils that can become rancid over time, and oxygen can accelerate this process. Oxygen absorbers are necessary for rice storage because they help remove oxygen from the storage container, which reduces the growth of bacteria and prevents insects from breeding, thereby extending the shelf-life of the rice.
How do I know if my rice has gone bad?
To determine if rice has gone bad, look for signs of discoloration, unusual odors, or insect activity. Additionally, you can perform a simple taste and smell test before consuming.
Conclusion
Following the rice storage tips above ensures that your rice stays safe and edible long-term. You need to plan and execute properly to keep your rice supply safe and edible. A proper storage plan for rice is vital for any prepper’s pantry, and knowing how to store rice long term can be a game-changer in emergencies.
Pro tips:
After our rice weevil infestation, my wife started adding a few bay leaves to our long term storage preps because we don’t know if the rice we bought already contained weevils or eggs. We assume we got a bad bag. Just looking at the rice before rinsing it you couldn’t see any signs of weevils and once we rinsed it as you can see in the video, they are clearly evident.
Keep a dozen or so mason jars with rice stored away. These are great for barter should SHTF and you need to make a trade. They’re also handy for the one-off situation where you need some rice but don’t want to break into a larger, long-term storage container.
Have you ever experienced rice weevils? Let us know in the comments below.
