Mylar bags are a staple for long-term food storage, offering superior protection against oxygen, moisture, and light. But with varying thicknesses available, choosing the right one can be confusing. This post focuses on two common options: 5 mil and 7 mil Mylar bags. Understanding the differences between these thicknesses is crucial for maximizing the shelf life of your stored goods.
We’ll delve into the specific characteristics of each, exploring how the thickness affects durability, puncture resistance, and cost. By the end, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision about whether 5 mil or 7 mil Mylar bags are best suited for your individual storage needs and long-term preservation goals.
What Are 5 Mil Mylar Bags
5 mil Mylar bags are a type of flexible packaging made from a metallized polyester film called Mylar. The “mil” measurement refers to the thickness of the Mylar material, with 5 mil indicating a thickness of five one-thousandths of an inch. These bags are commonly used for long-term food storage due to their excellent barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and light, which are the primary culprits of food spoilage.
The metallization process, typically involving a thin layer of aluminum, gives Mylar bags their distinctive silver appearance and contributes significantly to their protective qualities. This metallic layer reflects light and acts as a barrier against oxygen and moisture, helping to preserve the flavor, nutrients, and texture of the stored food. 5 mil Mylar bags are a popular choice for storing dry goods like grains, beans, rice, and dehydrated fruits and vegetables.
While 5 mil Mylar bags offer excellent protection, they are generally considered a good balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. They are suitable for most long-term food storage needs, especially when used in conjunction with oxygen absorbers to further eliminate oxygen within the sealed bag. However, for heavier or sharper items, or in situations where extra puncture resistance is desired, thicker Mylar bags (such as 7 mil) might be a better choice.
What Are 7 Mil Mylar Bags
7 mil Mylar bags are a type of flexible packaging primarily used for long-term food storage. The “mil” refers to the thickness of the bag material, with 7 mil being a thicker option compared to the more common 5 mil bags. This increased thickness translates to enhanced durability and puncture resistance, making 7 mil Mylar bags a robust choice for preserving food for extended periods.
These bags are constructed from multiple layers of materials, including a metallized polyester film that provides an exceptional barrier against oxygen, moisture, and light. This multi-layered design is crucial for protecting stored food from the elements that cause spoilage, ensuring that items like grains, beans, and dehydrated goods remain fresh and usable for years.
7 mil Mylar bags are particularly well-suited for storing heavier items or foods that might have sharp edges, as the thicker material is less prone to tearing or punctures. Their durability also makes them a good choice for long-term storage in less-than-ideal conditions, where the bags might be subject to some rough handling. When properly sealed and used with oxygen absorbers, 7 mil Mylar bags offer a reliable way to safeguard your food supplies for the long haul.
What Is Mil for Mylar Bags
In the world of Mylar bags, “mil” refers to the thickness of the bag material.
Think of it like this:
- Mil is a unit of measurement. Just like inches or centimeters measure length, mil measures thickness.
- One mil is equal to one-thousandth of an inch (0.001 inch). So, a 5 mil Mylar bag is 0.005 inches thick, while a 7 mil bag is 0.007 inches thick.
Why does mil matter?
The mil thickness of a Mylar bag directly affects its:
- Durability: Thicker bags (higher mil) are generally more resistant to punctures and tears.
- Protection: Thicker bags can offer slightly better protection against oxygen, moisture, and light, although both 5 mil and 7 mil bags provide excellent barriers when properly sealed.
- Cost: Thicker bags (higher mil) tend to be more expensive.
In simple terms:
Higher mil = thicker bag = more durable and potentially better protection (but also more expensive).
When choosing Mylar bags, consider the type of food you’re storing, how long you plan to store it, and your budget to determine the appropriate mil thickness.
5 Mil vs 7 Mil Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are a popular choice for long-term food storage due to their ability to protect against oxygen, moisture, and light. Within the world of Mylar bags, thickness is a key consideration, with 5 mil and 7 mil being common options. Understanding the differences between these thicknesses is crucial for selecting the right bag for your specific needs.
5 Mil Mylar Bags:
5 mil Mylar bags are a cost-effective option for storing a wide variety of dry goods. The “mil” measurement refers to one-thousandth of an inch, so a 5 mil bag is 0.005 inches thick. This thickness provides a good balance of durability and affordability, making them suitable for storing items like grains, rice, beans, and dehydrated fruits and vegetables. When properly sealed and used with oxygen absorbers, 5 mil Mylar bags offer excellent protection against the factors that contribute to food spoilage, extending the shelf life of your stored goods significantly. They are generally sufficient for most long-term food storage needs, especially when the stored items are not particularly heavy or sharp.
7 Mil Mylar Bags:
7 mil Mylar bags, being thicker at 0.007 inches, offer enhanced durability and puncture resistance compared to their 5 mil counterparts. This extra thickness makes them ideal for storing heavier items, foods with sharp edges (like pasta or nuts), or situations where the bags might be subject to more handling or stress. The added protection of 7 mil bags is particularly beneficial for long-term storage in less-than-ideal conditions, where the bags might be more susceptible to punctures or tears. While slightly more expensive than 5 mil bags, the increased durability can be worth the investment for added peace of mind, especially when storing valuable or essential food supplies.
Choosing the Right Thickness:
The decision between 5 mil and 7 mil Mylar bags hinges on several factors, including the type of food being stored, the weight of the stored items, and the storage environment. For most common dry goods and typical storage conditions, 5 mil bags are perfectly adequate. However, if you’re storing heavier items, foods with sharp edges, or anticipate rough handling, 7 mil bags offer an extra layer of protection. Consider your budget as well, as 7 mil bags generally cost more.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between 5 mil and 7 mil mylar bags:
| Feature | 5 Mil Mylar Bags | 7 Mil Mylar Bags |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 0.005 inches | 0.007 inches |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Puncture Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Ideal For | Most dry goods (grains, beans, dehydrated foods) | Heavier items, foods with sharp edges, rough handling |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Suitability for Long-Term Storage | Excellent (with oxygen absorbers) | Excellent (with oxygen absorbers), extra protection |
| Best Use Case | General long-term food storage | Long-term storage of heavier/sharp items, challenging storage environments |
Conclusion
Choosing between 5 mil and 7 mil Mylar bags ultimately depends on your specific storage needs and priorities. While 7 mil bags offer superior puncture resistance and durability, making them ideal for heavier items or situations where rough handling is a concern, 5 mil bags provide a cost-effective solution for storing lighter, less fragile goods.
The key takeaway is that there’s no single “best” option. Both 5 mil and 7 mil Mylar bags have their place in a well-rounded food storage strategy. Understanding the nuances of each thickness allows you to make informed choices that maximize the longevity and safety of your stored food. Don’t underestimate the importance of proper sealing and the use of oxygen absorbers, regardless of the bag thickness you choose. These practices are crucial for creating the optimal environment for long-term food preservation.
Looking to stock up on high-quality Mylar bags for your food storage needs? BN Pack offers a wide selection of both 5 mil and 7 mil Mylar bags at wholesale prices. Contact us today for a competitive quote and ensure you have the right protection for your valuable supplies. Don’t wait – prepare for the future with BN Pack!