Dehydrated potatoes are one of the most versatile and durable of all food storage foods. From emergency preparedness to your regular pantry supplies; or even for time-saving convenience cooking, knowing the shelf life of dehydrated potatoes could be a lifesaver for you. But, how long does dehydrated potatoes last? And how should you store them?
Ranging from dehydrated potato slices to potato flakes or dehydrated potato granules, these foods provide a handy and dense source of calories like its fresh counterpart. But like any dehydrated food, its shelf life matters on some variables like the storage place and packaging method used.
In general, dehydrated potatoes have an incredibly long shelf life— up to 25 years or more in some ideal conditions.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about the dehydrated potatoes shelf life, long term storage methods, and best practices to keep these handy foods in tip-top shape and form for a long time. Continue reading and learn how to be an expert in dehydrated potato storage and pantry stocking. Who knows, you might end up buying more of this versatile potato product than you’d originally planned.
For anyone who’s into long term food storage, dehydrated potatoes should be on the top of your list of stockable items. These foods have an incredibly long shelf life, making it one of the most durable and long-lasting storage forms you can buy. How long dehydrated potatoes will last is an important question for any prepper, camper, or anyone who wants this handy food in their storage.
The average shelf life of dehydrated potatoes is about 3 to 5 years. But when you add that extra effort like sealing them in airtight containers or vacuum sealed bags; and storing them in a clean, dry, dark place, the shelf life of dehydrated potatoes could last two times or even three times longer. Some dehydrated potato flakes and granules have lasted for 20 to 30 years in some cases.
This lengthy shelf life guarantee that you’ll have a good stockpile of complex carbs and healthy calories when you most need them. Dehydrated potato slices, potato flakes, and granules preserve most of its nutritional value during dehydration; including some vitamins like vitamin C that are often lost in dehydration.
Dehydrated potato products like instant mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, and other potato dishes only need boiling water to rehydrate and they are equivalent to having ready-to-eat meals already. Dehydrated potatoes occupy less space compared to its fresh counterpart and are less prone to spoilage in some cases— a huge bonus when it comes to long term food storage.
Keep in mind, however, that the actual shelf life of your dehydrated potatoes could range between these variables depending on how the raw potatoes were first, the kind of dehydration method used, and where and how they are stored. But with care and vigilance, you’ll be able to get the best shelf life possible and ensure your dehydrated potatoes are still good for a long time.
Dehydrated potatoes are a shelf stable product made by removing the moisture from fresh potatoes. This preserves potatoes for long term storage. Properly dehydrated potatoes can be stored for months or even years without going bad.
Dehydrated potatoes are a convenient lightweight pantry option that can be used in many dishes. They are easy to store and help to maximize harvests, reduce food waste and preserve nutritional value. Essential for emergency food supplies and preparedness plans dehydrated potatoes are a must have in your pantry.
There are a few factors to consider when thinking of the shelf life of dehydrated potatoes. The first of which is moisture content. The enemy of any long term food storage is moisture. Even a tiny amount could cause mold formation and spoilage in food storage items.
This is the reason why it is imperative that dehydrated potatoes are completely dry before they are stored in any containers. As a general rule, the wetter the product is, the shorter the shelf life gets.
Storage temperature is another factor to consider. Dehydrated potatoes should be kept in a cool, dry place. If the temperature oscillates between cool and warm, condensation will form inside storage containers and this further shortens the product’s shelf life.
The next factor to consider is the type of packaging to use. Air and moisture should not be inside storage containers. Using airtight containers like vacuum sealed bags; or jars and containers with lids that fit tightly are ideal for dehydrated potatoes.
Oxygen absorbers also help in reducing oxidation which could shorten the shelf life of the product. These are especially a big help for products like dehydrated potato flakes and potato granules which are more susceptible to moisture because of its finer texture.
Exposure to light diminishes the vitamin C content of the potatoes and causes faster spoilage. Store dehydrated potatoes in a dark place to retain its nutritional value. Proper packaging should include opaque or dark colored containers to prevent light exposure.
Finally, the handling practices you employ when storing dehydrated potatoes matters. Utensils and containers should be clean and free from moisture when packing the product. Introducing contaminants shortens the expiration date of the potatoes.
The quality of raw potatoes used in dehydration also matters. Fresh and quality potatoes yield dehydrated products that are more likely to store well.
By being vigilant on these factors like moisture content, storage temperature, type of packaging, light exposure, and handling practices; you can ensure that your dehydrated potatoes last for a long time and remain that way for most part of its shelf life; making them a worthy investment for long term food storage and emergency kits.
Whether in the form of dehydrated potato flakes, granules, or slices; dehydrated potatoes require careful attention when storing to preserve its long shelf life and maintain its top quality. When preserved properly, these potatoes could become your best friend in the pantry when the need to rehydrate and prepare the old favorite mashed potatoes, soups, stews, or casseroles arises.
The secret to maintaining the shelf life of dehydrated potatoes lies in controlling three of its enemies: moisture, light, and air. You can achieve this through the following methods:
Airtight containers: Storing dehydrated potatoes in airtight containers prevents moisture and air from being exposed to the product which are the two factors that can significantly shorten the shelf life of these products. Glass jars, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or metal cans with sealable tops are good options.
Vacuum sealing: Employing vacuum sealing methods can further protect the shelf life of dehydrated potatoes. Vacuum sealed bags eliminate air inside the container which in turn stifles mold and bacteria growth. This method is especially handy when oxygen absorbers are used.
Cool, dark place: Keep your dehydrated potatoes in a cool place and away from direct light to preserve its top quality. Heat and light exposes the product to faster breakdown so a pantry, basement or root cellar with stable temperature and little to no light exposure is ideal.
Oxygen absorbers: To maintain an oxygen-free environment in the storage containers, some people include oxygen absorbers in the Mylar bags. Oxygen absorbers inhibit the oxidation process that degrades the quality of the dehydrated potatoes.
Following are some guidelines for storing dehydrated potatoes. If you follow these methods, your dehydrated potatoes will last much longer and provide a dependable source of healthy, high-complex carbohydrate food for your family. It also makes a great emergency preparedness food and long term food storage.
Also, if you are dehydrate potatoes at home, make sure the potatoes are dried very well before storing them. Any remaining moisture can promote mold growth and spoilage and defeat the purpose of storing potatoes for long shelf life. A food processor to slice potatoes into an even thickness and a good dehydrator to do a professional job. Potatoes should be cooled completely after drying before packaging for storage.
When stored properly dehydrated potatoes can last up to 20 years. However for best flavor and texture use within 5 years. Storage conditions and packaging will affect the exact shelf life.
Dehydrated potato slices: Thinly sliced and dried.
Dehydrated potato flakes: Dried and powdered. Use as a thickening agent or in recipes.
Dehydrated potato granules: Small dried particles. Use to thicken or in recipes.
Instant mashed potatoes: Dehydrated potatoes that can be rehydrated with boiling water.
Rehydrate potato slices by soaking them in boiling water for 30 minutes to an hour, use equal parts water and potatoes. Once rehydrated use in recipes or as a side dish.
Dehydrated potato flakes are a great thickening agent for soups, stews and sauces. They are perfect for making mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes or casseroles. They can also be used as a coating for fried foods or as a crunchy topping for salads.
Dehydrated potato flakes are high in potassium, vitamin C and fiber. Low in calories and fat. Gluten free and hypoallergenic.
Steam or blanch raw potatoes before dehydrating them. Store the dried potatoes in airtight containers or vacuum sealed bags for best freshness. Add oxygen absorbers or desiccants to the packaging to keep dry.
Don’t store dehydrated potatoes in humid environments or near strong smelling foods they will absorb odors. Don’t store them in direct sunlight or near heat sources to go bad.
Dehydrated potatoes shelf life is longer than any other form of potatoes and they should be a stable and essential part of your kitchen pantry. For the reasons cited above, it is evident that storing dehydrated potato products like potato flakes and dehydrated potato slices properly is crucial to maintain their goodness and flavor for a long time. Whether its making creamy mashed potatoes with rehydrated potato flakes or instant mashed potatoes by just adding water to dehydrated mashed potatoes or adding them to soups and stews, stored dehydrated potatoes can serve you for a long time.
And don’t forget the most important factor for long shelf life; you must store them in airtight containers, vacuum-sealed bags with oxygen absorbers or similar methods. Dehydrated potatoes offer healthy calories and complex carbohydrates to your family and should be an important part of your food storage plans. So, stock up today and your dehydrated potato products will be on your shelf whenever you need them – for scalloped potatoes, potato soup, instant potatoes or any other recipe that uses potatoes!
