Polyethylene terephthalate bottles, or those with the recycling symbol shown above, are some of the most inexpensive and readily available container resources for long-term storage. These bottles are available all over the world. Many products, like juice, soda and water, that we purchase at the supermarket come already packaged in these reusable bottles. If you are unable to find buckets, foil pouches or buckets for use in your area, PETE bottles can be your solution. It's pretty easy to collect these bottles over time and then repack them for long-term storage.
Here are some instructions:
1) Use only bottles that previously contained food items.
1) Clean bottles with dish soap, rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
2) Verify that lid has a plastic/rubber seal (not foam or paper) and is airtight by replacing the cap and immersing the bottle into water. Squeeze the bottle. If you see bubbles, then the bottle is not air-tight and cannot be used for long-term storage.
3) Put an oxygen absorber (available through LDS distribution) into each bottle. Replace the oxygen absorber if you reuse the bottle.
4) Pour dry (less than 10% moisture content) storage items, such as wheat, rice, beans or popcorn, into bottle using a funnel if needed.
5) Wipe the top of the bottle to remove any dust or foil-seal remnants that will compromise an air-tight seal. Tighten lid and label bottle.
6) Store bottles in a dark area to reduce light exposure. Storing bottles in a food-grade bin or box can also reduce light and help thwart rodents.
These are two great links for further information:
Storing Bulk Dry Foods in PETE Bottles (includes pictures)
Provident Living - PETE Bottles
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