Many people leave grains, pasta, and flour in their original store packaging, even after opening. However, experts emphasize that storing grains in the original packaging is safe only until the package is opened.
Once opened, it’s impossible to ensure a complete seal, which can lead to grains absorbing moisture and odors from the environment, affecting their quality and taste.
Another important reason to use airtight containers is to prevent pests. In some cases, insects may come into the home with the grains, but they’re not always visible at first. If stored in an open package, these pests can quickly spread to other pantry items.
Using a plastic bag may seem like a solution, but it doesn’t guarantee protection from insects, as some pests can chew through plastic. For this reason, it’s also not recommended to store grains in fabric or paper bags.
The best way to keep grains fresh and safe for the long term is to transfer them to airtight containers, which provide optimal storage conditions, protect the products from pests, and maintain their freshness.