How to store bulk ingredients

Ever wondered the best way to store your bulk Caravan Organic goodies? 

Bulk storage can be achieved in small spaces and allows you to always have plenty of your favourite ingredients on hand.

Of course, the general rule for all dry food items is that they be kept in airtight containers and stored somewhere cool and dark. Transferring bulk foods into large, stackable containers is ideal; as it prolongs the shelf life, and gives you a chance to inspect the entire contents of the bag and make sure there are no surprises. Consider storing your containers in a clean, dry garage; the bottom or top shelf of the pantry; or even in a cupboard in your spare room or linen press (We have a hefty supply of quinoa and pink salt in a cupboard in the loungeroom... ) As long as they're well sealed, they shouldn't attract pests or release/absorb odours. 

Here are some tips for storing some of our most popular bulk sized products.

Oats: Oats contain natural oils, and they tend to be a favourite for weevils. Any food product high in oils is at risk of going rancid if not properly stored. The best way to store oats is in the freezer. Either transfer the oats to an airtight container, or if they're in a resealable bag, simply squeeze out any excess air and pop them in the freezer. They shouldn't clump together and you'll still be able to easily scoop out as much as you need. Freezing the oats has the added benefit of killing off any bug eggs that might be lurking; and oats only take a few minutes at room temperature to defrost.

Wholemeal Flours: Wholemeal flours have a higher oil content than white flours, and therefore have a shorter shelf life. To prevent your wholemeal flours from going bad in warm weather, store in airtight containers in the fridge. 

White or Unbleached Flours: These flours have a lower oil content and don't need to be stored in the fridge. If you freeze all your flour for 48 hours before storing, it will kill off any hidden insects. Store in airtight containers in a dark, cool place. You can store flour in the freezer, if you choose to. It has a frozen shelf life of several years.

Rice; quinoa; dried beans and pulses: These foods have an even lower oil content and are quite happy in airtight containers somewhere dark and cool. These products can be frozen for 48 hours to kill any 'friends', but it isn't essential. 

Raw Nuts (without shells) & Nut Meal: We don't recommend buying nuts in bulk, unless you can store a large amount in your fridge, and know you will use them up at a steady pace. Raw nuts are so high in oil that they are really best kept in the fridge. Refrigerating nuts makes them extra crunchy, too! Always store your nut meal or nut flours in the fridge.

Happy storing!