If you’re worried about keeping your dog’s food fresh for as long as possible, or if you want to know if freezing dry dog food is possible, this article will explain how to store wet and dry food so that it keeps its nutritional value.
For dog owners, nutrition is a vital priority. Not only should you study and purchase the best dog food for your dog so that you can be sure they’re eating nutritious, balanced meals, but you need also consider how to store their food properly so that it stays fresh and doesn’t go bad, potentially getting your pet unwell.
Most dog food packaging from pet stores Winnipeg has an expiration date on it, and if you don’t follow this advice, your dog may suffer from digestive problems, food poisoning, or worse. Because dog food is impacted by air, moisture, and room temperature, it will perish even faster after the bag is opened and if not stored properly.
So, here’s everything you need to know about storing your dog’s food so it stays fresh for longer.
What is the best way to keep wet dog food?
A can of unopened wet dog food can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the brand. However, once opened, it must be properly preserved, and even then, it will only last three to five days.
When opening the can, double-check the expiration date to ensure it is still valid. Then, immediately after opening, store it in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator.
How do you store dry dog food after you’ve opened it?
While dry dog food has a longer shelf life than wet dog food, it is still perishable and requires proper storage. Here’s what you should do to keep it as fresh as possible:
Freezing Dog Food
If you’re concerned about dry dog food spoiling, you go for freezing dry dog food. You can buy it in bulk and freeze it to extend its shelf life. As with freezing any type of food, it is advised to place freeze-dried dog food in an airtight container.
Once you’ve opened the bag of dog food, make sure it’s properly packed to keep out any air or moisture, which is how bacteria enter. Roll the bag down the sides and secure it with a bag clip.
Other Ways to Keep Dry Dog Food Fresh
1. Keep it in an airtight container
When kibble is exposed to air, the oxygen breaks down the oils in the food, hastening the deterioration process. Keep the bag of dog food in an airtight container to avoid this happening.
Stainless steel or glass are the best options since they have better seals, are easier to clean, and last longer. If you do decide to use a plastic container, keep it clean and dry, and replace it regularly because the chemicals in the plastic can seep into the food.
2. Leave it in the original packaging
Rather than emptying the bag of dog food into a container, place the entire bag into the container. This will act as an additional barrier to keep air and moisture out. Furthermore, retaining the original package ensures that you have the expiration date and manufacturer information in case the item has a problem.
Conclusion
Freezing dry dog food is widely regarded as one of the most effective methods for preserving the vitamins and minerals in dried dog food for extended periods of time. However, you must ensure that the meal is stored in an airtight container.
This will keep moisture from deteriorating the food and restricting the amount of time it can be kept and maintained. If you wish to use frozen dry dog food, you’ll need to provide extra time for defrosting and thawing before feeding it to your dog. If you wish to use frozen dry dog food, you’ll need to provide extra time for defrosting and thawing before feeding it to your dog.