How to Store Bulk Food Purchases

One of the chief reasons many people do not buy food products in bulk is they don’t know how to store the food once they get it home. The easy solution to the problem is food grade buckets, barrels and tubs. These can be stored in the garage, a closet or even under beds.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Various sized food grade tubs with locking lids
• Food grade buckets with lids
• Food grade barrels with lids
• Self sticking labels

1. Determine what your needs are. If you are only going to be storing large amounts of sugar, flour and other staples, locking tubs may be all you need.

2. Look for food grade buckets with lids at fast food and other restaurants. Talk to the manager. Often they will save pickle and other buckets for you if you promise to pick up regularly.

3. Wash out any tubs, buckets and barrels and allow to dry before using.

4. Leave the food in the original packaging where possible. Fit into a tub or bucket for storage. This adds an extra level of protection to the food.

5. Label each individual container with the names of the items inside. This will keep you from having to open more than one container when looking for the food product you need.

6. Store the containers wherever you can find space for them. They do not have to be kept in the kitchen.

Tips & Warnings

• Buying in bulk generally gives you a better price point on the per unit price. Double check to make sure, as some items can be more expensive.
• Tubs that are food safe and have sealing lids can be found at many home centers and container shops.