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MOUNTAIN HOUSE - PRODUCT SHELF LIFE
Backpacking Foods (pouches)
Based on storage studies conducted over many years, the shelf life is
at least 5 years from date of manufacture, as long as the pouch is stored
unopened in a cool area. After 5 years, a change in flavor and appearance
may be noticed. For best results, avoid prolonged storage at temperatures
above 75° F (24° C).
#10 Cans-- Emergency Foods Mountain House freeze-dried foods are packed in #10 cans with
98% of the oxygen removed. Their canning process uses vacuum oxygen removal
and nitrogen flushing, or oxygen absorbers to protect product freshness.
The products packed in #10 cans offer a 30+ year shelf life. They have
manufactured cans for almost 35 years for consumers and military use.
They have also tasted product that is 35 years old and it still tastes
great. Each can and lid is coated with a protective enamel inside and
out for double protection. The cans contents are protected until you open
them. After opening, they recommend using the contents within 2 to 3 weeks
for best results and taste; using the convenient resealable plastic lid
between uses. Treat any leftover food as you would fresh food.
Manufacture Date
The product manufacturing code appears on the back of Mountain House®
pouches and on the bottom of Mountain House® cans. The date in the
code represents the date on which the product was packaged. For pouches
starting January of 2001 we are now printing BEST IF USED BY
dates on the back of each pouch.
1989 and after:
EXAMPLE: 99028 CIA
99 = Year
028 = Julian Date (example = 28th day of the year = January 28)
CIA = Production Operator's Initials
Prior to 1989:
EXAMPLE: T20394D
T = Year (example "T" = 1987; see below*)
203 = Julian Date (example = 203rd day of the year = July 22)
94D = Internal tracking system code number
