MYLAR bags have become one of the most popular solutions for storing and protecting food, offering a durable barrier against oxygen, moisture and light. Whether you're preserving pantry staples, preparing emergency food supplies or simply looking for a reliable long-term storage option, MYLAR bags can help keep food fresher for longer when used correctly.
Despite their growing popularity, there are still plenty of questions about how MYLAR bags work, what they're made from, and the best way to seal them. Can they be vacuum sealed? Are they food safe? Can they be reused? Understanding the answers to these questions is the key to getting the best performance from your MYLAR bags.
In this guide, we'll explain what MYLAR bags are, why they're widely used for food storage, and how to seal them using either a heat sealer or a vacuum sealer. We'll also answer some of the most common questions to help you choose the right storage method for your needs.
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What are MYLAR bags?
MYLAR bags are high-barrier storage bags designed to protect food from oxygen, moisture and light—three of the biggest factors that reduce shelf life. While "Mylar®" is technically a registered trademark for a type of polyester film, the term is now commonly used to describe laminated foil storage bags used for long-term food storage.
Key features of MYLAR bags include:
- Excellent barrier against oxygen, moisture and light
- Durable, puncture-resistant construction
- Suitable for heat sealing
- Available in a range of sizes and thicknesses
- Ideal for storing dry foods, emergency food supplies and other moisture-sensitive items
When properly heat sealed, MYLAR bags provide an effective solution for protecting food and extending its storage life.
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Why use MYLAR bags for storage?
MYLAR bags are designed to create a strong barrier against oxygen, moisture and light, helping to protect food from the environmental factors that can reduce freshness and shelf life. When properly heat sealed, they're an excellent choice for storing dry foods such as rice, pasta, beans, flour and dehydrated ingredients. They're also popular for emergency food supplies, camping and bulk food storage.
Are MYLAR bags food safe?
Yes—quality MYLAR bags that are manufactured using food-grade materials are safe for storing food. The inner layer of the bag is made from food-safe polyethylene, while the outer layers provide strength and barrier protection. Always purchase MYLAR bags from a reputable supplier and ensure they're intended for food storage.
Are MYLAR bags reusable?
Yes, MYLAR bags can often be reused, provided they remain clean and undamaged. Bags that have stored dry foods can typically be washed, dried thoroughly and resealed. However, bags that have stored raw meat, seafood or other high-risk foods should generally be discarded to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
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How to heat seal MYLAR bags
Heat sealing is the most common and effective way to seal MYLAR bags for long-term food storage. Once the bag has been filled, remove as much excess air as practical before sealing the opening using either a dedicated heat sealer or the Heat Seal function found on most vacuum sealers. If you don't have either, a household clothes iron or hair straightener can also be used to create a reliable seal.
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How to vacuum seal MYLAR bags
MYLAR bags can also be vacuum sealed, although the process differs slightly from standard vacuum bags because the material is much thicker and doesn't allow air to pass through the bag itself.
The easiest method is to use a chamber vacuum sealer. If you're using a domestic external vacuum sealer, you can place a small strip of vacuum sealer mesh or an embossed vacuum bag inside the opening of the MYLAR bag. This creates an air channel that allows the machine to remove the air before sealing the bag.
While vacuum sealing helps remove oxygen from the bag, it isn't always necessary for long-term storage. For many dry foods, a properly heat-sealed MYLAR bag provides excellent long-term protection.
