LEM Products Mylar Bags Review

First Impressions of LEM Products Mylar Bags

Food storage. It’s not the sexiest topic in the outdoor and tactical world. However, it’s a cornerstone of preparedness, whether you’re a seasoned survivalist stockpiling for an uncertain future, or a casual camper wanting to keep your coffee beans fresh. That’s where the LEM Products Mylar Bags come in.

My journey to finding these bags started with a simple problem: my bulk food purchases were going stale far too quickly. I was tired of throwing away expensive coffee and grains that had lost their flavor and freshness due to improper storage. I needed a reliable, long-term solution. After researching various options, including plastic containers and vacuum-sealed jars, I decided to give LEM Products Mylar Bags a try.

Upon receiving the box, my first impression was positive. The bags felt substantial, definitely thicker than the cheap, generic Mylar bags I had experimented with before. The 7-mil thickness was immediately apparent, and the bags had a reassuring heft to them. Compared to thinner bags from brands like “Generic Survival Co.” and “Budget Food Savers,” the LEM Products bags felt like they could actually withstand some abuse.

I picked LEM Products Mylar Bags over others because of LEM’s reputation for quality in the food processing and game care industry. They’re known for their meat grinders and sausage stuffers, so trusting them with food storage seemed like a natural extension. I was both excited and cautiously optimistic. If these bags performed as advertised, they would solve a major problem and save me money in the long run.

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Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products Mylar Bags to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was straightforward: storing a five-pound bag of freshly roasted coffee beans. I divided the beans into smaller portions and sealed them using my chamber vacuum sealer, which the product description indicated was the ideal method. The bags sealed easily and the vacuum was strong, creating a tight, airtight package. I tested the seal integrity immediately by squeezing the bag; it felt robust and didn’t leak any air.

I also tested the heat-sealing capability using an external vacuum sealer (without the vacuum function). Although the product description indicated this could be done with increased sealing time/temperature, I found it required a little experimentation to get right. The first few attempts resulted in incomplete seals, but after adjusting the heat setting on my sealer, I achieved a solid, reliable seal. In terms of conditions, I used them in a climate-controlled pantry.

One small hiccup I encountered was with static cling. The Mylar material tended to cling to itself, making it slightly tricky to load the coffee beans into the bags. However, this was a minor inconvenience and easily overcome with a little patience. The tear notch worked perfectly, allowing for easy opening of the bag without the need for scissors or a knife.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the LEM Products Mylar Bags have proven to be incredibly reliable. The coffee beans I stored in them remained fresh and aromatic, retaining their flavor much longer than when stored in their original packaging. I also used the bags to store dehydrated fruits and vegetables from my garden, and they have held up perfectly. I even froze a bag of leftover chili in one, and it survived the freezer without any leaks or freezer burn.

The bags have shown no signs of wear and tear, despite being handled and moved around frequently. They are resistant to puncturing and maintain their integrity even when packed tightly in storage containers. Cleaning is simple. Any spills or residue can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper bags that would often tear or lose their seal, the LEM Products Mylar Bags have been a significant upgrade. They have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance.

Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products Mylar Bags

Specifications

The LEM Products Mylar Bags boast several key specifications that contribute to their excellent performance:

• 7 Mil Thick: This thickness provides exceptional puncture resistance and prevents oxygen and water from penetrating the bag. A thicker bag means better protection for your stored goods.
• FDA Food Grade: Ensures the bags are safe for contact with food, meeting stringent standards for food safety. This is crucial for long-term storage.
• BPA Free: Eliminates the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into your food. BPA-free products are generally considered safer for food storage.
• Freezer/Refrigerator Safe: Allows for versatile storage options, whether you need to freeze leftovers or refrigerate perishables. The flexibility is great for various storage needs.
• Heat Safe Up To 176 Degrees F (80 Degrees C): Permits heat sealing for airtight closures, further enhancing the bags’ protective capabilities. Note that the bags are not suitable for boiling or microwaving.
• 50 Ct. Per Box: Provides a generous quantity for various storage needs. Having 50 bags in a box provides a good supply for stocking up.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the bag’s ability to protect food from spoilage. The thickness, food-grade material, and heat-sealing capabilities all contribute to creating an airtight, moisture-proof barrier.

Performance & Functionality

The LEM Products Mylar Bags excel at their primary job: long-term food storage. They reliably keep food fresh, protected from light, moisture, insects, dust, and debris. The bags are easy to use, especially with a chamber vacuum sealer, and provide a secure, airtight seal.

The main strength is their robust construction, which ensures they can withstand handling and storage without tearing or leaking. A minor weakness is the aforementioned static cling, which can make filling the bags slightly cumbersome. Overall, the bags meet and exceed expectations, providing a dependable solution for food storage.

Design & Ergonomics

The bags are simple in design, which is exactly what you want for food storage. The materials used are high-quality, and the 7-mil thickness gives them a substantial feel. The bags are lightweight and easy to handle, even when filled with food.

There is no learning curve to using the bags. Simply fill, seal, and store. The tear notch is a welcome addition, making it easy to open the bags when needed.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 7-mil thickness and high-quality materials, these bags are built to last. They can withstand years of storage without degrading or losing their protective properties. Maintenance is minimal. Just wipe them clean as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEM Products Mylar Bags themselves do not come with accessories, but their functionality can be enhanced with various sealing devices. A chamber vacuum sealer is the ideal tool for achieving a strong, airtight seal. An external vacuum sealer can also be used, but it may require some experimentation to find the optimal heat setting. The bags are compatible with most standard vacuum sealers.

Pros and Cons of LEM Products Mylar Bags

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Who Should Buy LEM Products Mylar Bags?

The LEM Products Mylar Bags are perfect for:

• Survivalists and preppers looking for reliable long-term food storage solutions.
• Hunters and anglers wanting to preserve their harvests.
• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts needing to keep food fresh on extended trips.
• Anyone who buys food in bulk and wants to prevent spoilage.
• Gardeners wanting to store their harvests.

These bags might not be necessary for someone who only needs short-term storage solutions or who prefers to use plastic containers for everyday food items.

A must-have accessory is a quality vacuum sealer. While you can use an external vacuum sealer, a chamber vacuum sealer is highly recommended for achieving the best possible seal.

Conclusion on LEM Products Mylar Bags

The LEM Products Mylar Bags are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about long-term food storage. Their robust construction, food-grade materials, and ease of use make them a standout product in a crowded market. The price of $25.99 for 50 bags is justified by their exceptional quality and performance.

I would personally recommend these bags to anyone looking for a reliable and effective way to protect their food from spoilage. They are a valuable addition to any preparedness plan or food storage system. If you value freshness and want to save money by preserving your bulk food purchases, give the LEM Products Mylar Bags a try. You won’t be disappointed.