Category Archives: Grain Storage

Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage + Limited Time DEAL on 25 and 50 lb Sizes

This review is by Homebrew Finds Contributor Brad Probert.  Brad is an engineer, expert homebrewer and experienced reviewer.  Grab a link to Brad’s website at the end of this review.

Vittles Vault Storage Bins

Gamma2 as a company is 100% dedicated to their mission of designing and providing pet food containers to animal owners (technically they also care about your dog getting out of the pool, as they make a doggy pool exit ramp). But, that doesn’t mean these “pet food containers” can’t be co-opted for homebrewing. The same characteristics that make them ideal for pet food, also make them ideal for malt storage.

Vittles Vault 60-lb Container

I’ll go through a few storage basics for malt. First, you want to store it uncrushed, so that the husk helps keep the good stuff inside protected from the environment. Cracked grain kernels are more enticing to critters, and opens up the endosperm to fast staling. Beyond that, grain wants to be kept at cooler room temperatures (40 – 60F), dry, away from light, and in an airtight environment. Maltsters range in the max recommended storage time, with most in the 12-18 months range, and some up to 24 months. When you buy grains by the 55-lb sack, most will put a “best by” date on the label, since you don’t know how old it is before you get it. Although you can save money by buying grains in bulk, you need to make sure you have the right throughput to use it up before it stales.

Lid o-ring Out of Groove on Right Side

Gamma2 has a number of different types and sizes of storage containers. All are designed to be airtight, so they keep air from getting in and staling your grains when you’re not scooping it. (Which of course, the same thing can’t be said for that 55-lb sack of grain you’ve got in the corner, with a stretch of duct tape over the hole you cut into it…) The lid design is how they achieve this air-tightness. There’s a compliant o-ring that’s held in a groove on the lid which gets compressed down onto a chamfered face on the body of the container to make the seal. As the threaded lid gets screwed down, the o-ring will get squished to block off the air-leak path past the lid.


Limited Time Deal!

As of this posting, the 25 lb size of is on sale for $28.95  and the 50 lb size is on sale for $36.99.

These are affiliate links. Note that multiple variations of these products may be available, as such a different version may appear at these links

Prices and availability can change quickly Check product page for current info – More About Prices


Check Pricing and Available Sizes & Configurations, Review Continues Below

These are affiliate links. Note that multiple variations of these products may be available, as such a different version may appear at these links

Also Mentioned in This Review:

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50 lb Stackable Airtight Vittles Vault Container [~55 lbs Grain Storage Capacity] – on sale for $36.99 + Hands on Review

Thanks to Twitter Follower @chillindamos for this photo [and one more below]! [Connect with HBF on Twitter] This is the 50 lb stackable size with a full 25 kg bag of grain in it.  That’s about 55 lbs and there’s still some room.

Gamma Seal 50 lb

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • Keeps Food Fresh and Flavorful: our Gamma Seal Technology, featuring a threaded locking system and double gaskets, create a controlled moisture balance making it the ideal airtight dog food storage container (suitable for cat food, too)
  • Say Goodbye to Pesky Pests: In addition to locking in freshness and flavor, Gamma Seal Technology keeps pests out, stopping ants and other insects out of this cat or dog food storage vault. Perfect for dry pet food
  • Food-safe, BPA-Free: Engineered with strength and durability in mind, Vittles Vaults dog and cat food storage containers use food-grade, durable BPA-free HDPE plastic. Suitable for indoors or outdoors, but recommended to store in climate-controlled spaces
  • Must-Have Pet Owner's Cat and Dog Feeding & Watering Supplies: This versatile pet food storage container serves as a cat food storage container or food for goats, birds, etc. Note that only the 40lb and 60lb Vittles Vaults are stackable
  • Proudly Made in the USA: Unlike many other pet food storage containers, Vittles Vaults are manufactured in the USA with quality and craftsmanship you can trust. Capacity is based on the shape and density of kibble. When in doubt; round up to the next size

 

  • The Vittles Vault line of stackable containers are very popular for bulk grain storage.
  • They are food grade and airtight.  They have a large easy access opening and the ability to stack makes them space efficient.  Heavy Duty construction and easy spin off and on lid.  Lid features lock-down double gaskets.  The body includes molded handles for easy carrying.  Made from food grade, BPA free plastic.
  • What are others saying?  Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “malt” – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
  • Learn More!  Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage

As of this posting this is on sale for $36.99. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying orderPrices, promotions and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up to 50 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage– affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

deals on sacks of malt

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Vittles Vault Airtight Container [25 lb Size, ~32 lbs Grain Storage Capacity] – on sale for $28.95 + Hands on Review

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 25 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • Keeps Food Fresh and Flavorful: our Gamma Seal Technology, featuring a threaded locking system and double gaskets, create a controlled moisture balance making it the ideal airtight dog food storage container (suitable for cat food, too)
  • Say Goodbye to Pesky Pests: In addition to locking in freshness and flavor, Gamma Seal Technology keeps pests out, stopping ants and other insects out of this cat or dog food storage vault. Perfect for dry pet food
  • Food-safe, BPA-Free: Engineered with strength and durability in mind, Vittles Vaults dog and cat food storage containers use food-grade, durable BPA-free HDPE plastic. Suitable for indoors or outdoors, but recommended to store in climate-controlled spaces
  • Must-Have Pet Owner's Cat and Dog Feeding & Watering Supplies: This versatile pet food storage container serves as a cat food storage container or food for goats, birds, etc. Note that only the 40lb and 60lb Vittles Vaults are stackable
  • Proudly Made in the USA: Unlike many other pet food storage containers, Vittles Vaults are manufactured in the USA with quality and craftsmanship you can trust. Capacity is based on the shape and density of kibble. When in doubt; round up to the next size

 

The Vittles Vault line of containers are very popular for bulk grain storage.  They have a large opening for easy access and have an airtight design.

The 25 lb size is said to be 6.5 gallons.  My estimate for unmilled grain storage is 5 lbs per gallon.  At that rate an 6.5 gallon container would hold about 32.5 lbs of grain that’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.

This container is included as part of our Vittles Vault Review: Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage

As of this posting this is on sale for $28.95. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying orderPrices, promotions and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 25 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

deals on sacks of malt

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IRIS Airtight Container [~35 lb Capacity Grain Storage] – on sale for $19.04

IRIS Remington Airtight Pet Food Storage Container, 22-Pounds, Hunter Green 

IRIS Remington Airtight Pet Food Storage Container, 22-Pounds, Hunter Green

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • FOOD FOR ALL: This plastic airtight container is the ideal solution for storing dog or cat food, other pet food, and more. Don't let unwanted pests and rodents eat your pet food. The airtight seals with snap-lock latches make them rodent proof storage containers.
  • CAPACITY: Airtight containers for food hold up to 22 Lbs of dry pet food (the capacity will depend on what kind of pet food you store).
  • CLEAR CONTAINER BODY: The translucent body allows you to check the food level in just one glance. Quickly check the remaining amount before you head to the pet store.
  • ROLL IT AROUND: The storage bins come with attachable casters, so you have the option to have them off or on. Store it on a shelf or attach the wheel to roll it from the storage area to your dog or cat bowl.
  • DIMENSIONS:15.8"L x 10.75"W x 19.06"H (without casters 17.5"H)

 

As of this posting, this has a stated capacity of 28 quarts.  My rule of thumb for unmilled grain storage is 5 lbs per gallon.  28 quarts is 7 gallons.  At 5 lbs per gallon a 7 gallon container would hold about 35 lbs of grain.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.

What are others saying?  Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “brew” – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

3/6 7:30 PM Central: This is on sale for $19.04. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying orderPrices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

IRIS Remington Airtight Pet Food Storage Container, 22-Pounds, Hunter Green – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

deals on sacks of malt

This post contains affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our Amazon links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Homebrew Finds!

Screw Top Lids for Buckets, THREE Count (for grain storage) – $25.99… $8.66 each

Hacaroa 3 Pieces 5 Gallon Bucket Lids, 12 Inch Plastic Screw Top Seal Lids, Leak-proof Reusable Bucket Twist Lids Caps for Pet Food, Grain, Paint Storage Buckets, 3 Colors

5 Gallon Bucket Lids Plastic Storage Bucket Screw Seal Lids

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • Hacaroa 3 pieces bucket lids come with 3 colors, yellow, orange and blue, measure 12 x 12 x 1.5 inches, suitable for standard 5-gallon buckets.
  • Food-grade Material:Made of premium plastic (PP), our 5-gallon bucket lid is strong and durable, food-grade, safe with no unpleasant smell, great for food storage.
  • Easy to Use: The bucket seal lid consists of a lid and a ring. Spin open the lid (anticlockwise), press the ring hard onto your bucket rim until it is snapped into place, and spin close the lid (clockwise).
  • The lid can keep water and dust out of the bucket, keeping your pet food, rice, sugar or other foods fresh and dry. Besides, With groove on the lid, easy to spin open and close.
  • Wide Application: The screw top lids are perfect for pet food bucket, grain buckets, paint storage buckets, fishing buckets, etc. With 3 colors, better classify the items inside the buckets.

 

These appear to be similar in function to Gamma Seal Lids – Hands on Review

You attach attach an adapter ring on your compatible bucket.  The inner lid screws on and off, while the adapter ring remains installed.  Quick easy and airtight.  No more prying off standard bucket lids.  Use buckets + these lids for grain storage and more.

How much grain can you store in a 5 gallon bucket?  My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is 5 lbs per gallon.  With that estimate a  50 lb sack of grain fits in (2) 5 gallon buckets.  That’s an estimate and will vary.

2/28 5:30 PM Central: These are selling for just $25.99. Shipping is also free to many US addresses. Prices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Hacaroa 3 Pieces 5 Gallon Bucket Lids, 12 Inch Plastic Screw Top Seal Lids, Leak-proof Reusable Bucket Twist Lids Caps for Pet Food, Grain, Paint Storage Buckets, 3 Colors – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

This post contains affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our Amazon links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Homebrew Finds!

Gamma Seal Lids Replacement Gaskets

Captain O-Ring – Upgraded Replacement O-Ring Seal Gasket for Gamma2 Vittles Vault Pet Food Container Lid (2 Pack) [10” or 12” Lid Sizes] (5.0 Lid O-Rings (Lid just under 12") [2 Pack])

Captain O-Ring – Upgraded Replacement O-Ring Seal Gasket for Gamma2 Vittles Vault Pet Food Container Lid (2 Pack) [10” or 12” Lid Sizes] (5.0 Lid O-Rings (Lid just under 12″) [2 Pack])

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • SMART FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: (I) Turn any standard utility bucket into an airtight pet food storage container. (II) Great for storing cat food, dog food, livestock feed, horse feed, bird feed, and more.. (III) Fits standard 3.5, 5, 6, and 7-gallon buckets.
  • KEEPS PET FOOD FRESH: (I) Gamma’s unique 2-piece seal lids lock in freshness and lock out moisture. (II) Protects your dog and cat food from unwanted dust, dirt, bugs, and rodents. (III) Keeps your pet food fresh and tasty..
  • PEACE OF MIND: (I) Made with heavy duty BPA free HDPE Plastic. (II) Safe to store pet and human food as well as other household items.
  • PORTABLE AND EASY-TO-USE: (I) Gamma Seal Lid is 2 pieces; the ring connects to the bucket and the lid connects to the ring. SEE PROVIDED VIDEO. (II) Most utility buckets are equipped with handles to easily move from pantry to food dish.
  • WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: (I) 100 percent RECYCLABLE. (II) Passes stricter European REACH safety standards. (II) 12 Month for manufacturer defects.

  • Gamma Seal Lids – Hands on Review – are a great upgrade to standard buckets.  You attach the base of the unit to the bucket and leave that intact.  The lid screws on and off easily.  No more prying lids off.  These are also airtight.  I use buckets with Gamma Seal Lids as my primary storage for bulk grain and recipe kits.
  • How much grain can you store in a 5 gallon bucket?  My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is 5 lbs per gallon.  With that estimate a  50 lb sack of grain fits in (2) 5 gallon buckets.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.

These are upgraded replacement o-rings for Gamma Seal Lids. These feature a solid core (OEM was a hollow o-ring) and they are fully molded (OEM had a glued seem that was a common failure point).

Captain O-Ring – Upgraded Replacement O-Ring Seal Gasket for Gamma2 Vittles Vault Pet Food Container Lid (2 Pack) [10” or 12” Lid Sizes] (5.0 Lid O-Rings (Lid just under 12″) [2 Pack]) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Gamma Seal Lids are available in a variety of colors and quantity offerings – Search Gamma Seal Lids on Amazon to shop around

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Gamma Seal Lids – Spin Off, Airtight Bucket Lids [Grain Storage]… $8.44 w/35% Off Coupon

GAMMA2 Gamma Seal Lid - Pet Food Storage Container Lids - Fits 3.5, 5, 6, & 7 Gallon Buckets

Gamma Seal Lid by Gamma2

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • SMART FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: (I) Turn any standard utility bucket into an airtight pet food storage container. (II) Great for storing cat food, dog food, livestock feed, horse feed, bird feed, and more.. (III) Fits standard 3.5, 5, 6, and 7-gallon buckets.
  • KEEPS PET FOOD FRESH: (I) Gamma’s unique 2-piece seal lids lock in freshness and lock out moisture. (II) Protects your dog and cat food from unwanted dust, dirt, bugs, and rodents. (III) Keeps your pet food fresh and tasty..
  • PEACE OF MIND: (I) Made with heavy duty BPA free HDPE Plastic. (II) Safe to store pet and human food as well as other household items.
  • PORTABLE AND EASY-TO-USE: (I) Gamma Seal Lid is 2 pieces; the ring connects to the bucket and the lid connects to the ring. SEE PROVIDED VIDEO. (II) Most utility buckets are equipped with handles to easily move from pantry to food dish.
  • WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: (I) 100 percent RECYCLABLE. (II) Passes stricter European REACH safety standards. (II) 12 Month for manufacturer defects.

  • Gamma Seal Lids – Hands on Review – are a great upgrade to standard buckets.  You attach the base of the unit to the bucket and leave that intact.  The lid screws on and off easily.  No more prying lids off.  These are also airtight.  I use buckets with Gamma Seal Lids as my primary storage for bulk grain and recipe kits.
  • How much grain can you store in a 5 gallon bucket?  My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is 5 lbs per gallon.  With that estimate a  50 lb sack of grain fits in (2) 5 gallon buckets.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.
  • What are others saying?  Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “brewing” – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

As of this update choose Subscribe & Save and this is discounted to $12.99. Apply the 40% off coupon available on the product page and it drops to just $8.44. Subscribe & Save orders can be canceled at any time. More about Amazon Subscribe & Save. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

YMMV = Your Mileage May Vary. This may be a targeted promotion. Log in to your account and visit the product page to see if this deal is available.

GAMMA2 Gamma Seal Lid – Pet Food Storage Container Lids – Fits 3.5, 5, 6, & 7 Gallon Buckets, White – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Gamma Seal Lids are available in a variety of colors and quantity offerings – Search Gamma Seal Lids on Amazon to shop around

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Hands On Review: Gamma Seal Lids for Homebrew Grain Storage

Buckets are… Good for Grain Storage

Buckets are cheap and efficient containers for storing bulk homebrewing malts.  They are generally sturdy and cost effective.  Since they stack, they are also space efficient.  Search Amazon for “food safe buckets”

How Much Grain Can You Store in a 5 Gallon Bucket?

My general rule of thumb for unmilled malt storage is 5 lbs per gallon.  That means a 5 gallon bucket would hold about 25 lbs.  Two x buckets would hold a full 50 lb bag of malt.  That’s a rough estimate.  Actual storage capacities will vary.

The Problem… Lids

I’ll group standard bucket lids into two categories.

  • First… relatively easy to install and remove and…. questionable on air-tightness.  No o-rings or gaskets.  They go on fairly easy and come off relatively easy.  Sometimes too easily, I’ve had this style pop off on their own.
  • Second… sturdy, airtight lids… that require the power of Thor to remove.  These are gasketed and seal well but are tough to remove.  They’re so hard to remove, they make tools to do it.  If you’re stuck with these lids, those are worth a look.  Search Amazon for “bucket lid opener” to see what’s out there.

The Fix… Gamma Seal Lids!

High quality, gasketed lids do exist for 5 gallon buckets.  The problem with these lids is… they are usually difficult to remove, sometimes very difficult.  The revolutionary thing about Gamma Seal lids is that the ring stays installed on the bucket.  That ring is used in conjunction with an easy to remove spin off lid that features airtight seals.  Airtight + Easy to Use = Whammo!


Related Review, Review Continues Below:

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Airtight Rice Storage Bins, 4 Count – Grain Storage – $52.99… $13.25 each! best price + free shipping

Umigy 4 Pcs Grain Rice Storage Bin Flour Containers Set with Airtight Lids Large Sealed Rice Bucket 2 pcs 10 kg/22lbs and 2 pcs 15 kg/ 33lbs Food Storage Box Locking Lid Leak Proof for Cereal Pet Food

Umigy 4 Pcs Grain Rice Storage Bin Flour Containers Set with Airtight Lids Large Sealed Rice Bucket 2 pcs 10 kg/22lbs and 2 pcs 15 kg/ 33lbs Food Storage Box Locking Lid Leak Proof for Cereal Pet Food

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • Different Sizes: 10 kg grain rice storage bin food container is about 12.8 x 10.35 x 7.68 inches/ 32.5 x 26.3 x 19.5 cm, 15 kg grain rice storage bin food container is about 12.8 x 14.37 x 7.68 inches/ 32.5 x 36.5 x 19.5 cm, our food storage bin is big enough and there are different sizes for you to choose, meet the daily needs of family if you have rice, soybeans, corn, flour, oatmeal, mung beans, wheat need to be stored, you can choose our rice storage containers
  • Quality Material: plastic kitchen storage box is made of safe material, is not easy to break, the grain storage box is made of quality plastic material, which is strong, stable and durable, so you can safely use this grain storage container to hold rice, even pet food, cat food and dog food
  • Smart Storage: get your pantry, fridge, or freezer well organized with the storage container set that has been designed to store dried goods like rice, flour, sugar, or pet food anywhere you need; The grain storage box has good sealing effect, waterproof, easy storage, healthy and delicious; Our grain container with reliable air sealing settings can prevent dampness, keep your food dry and fresh for a long time
  • Transparent Flip: the transparent flip design of the grain storage box allows you to see the remaining amount of food at a glance, so that you can replenish it in time, this rice holder container can be placed on the pantry, countertop, table or cabinet, easy to use, keep clean and tidy, the front of the plastic food bin has a groove that can be easily taken out the box
  • Multifunction food storage container: multi purpose food storage container is suitable for loading flour, sugar, rice, nuts, beans, snack, cereal, coffee, tea, bread, corn, pasta, herbs, pet food, soybeans, grain, dry goods, helping cultivate a healthy lifestyle and save space, providing a convenient storage solution for the pantry, refrigerator, freezer, and cupboard

 

2/6 10:30 PM Central: These have dropped to just $52.99 or about $13.25 each. That’s the best historical third party Amazon price I found, notwithstanding Lightning Deals or coupons. Shipping is also free to many US addresses. Prices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Umigy 4 Pcs Grain Rice Storage Bin Flour Containers Set with Airtight Lids Large Sealed Rice Bucket 2 pcs 10 kg/22lbs and 2 pcs 15 kg/ 33lbs Food Storage Box Locking Lid Leak Proof for Cereal Pet Food – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

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Homebrew Storage Options! – Base Grain, Specialty Grain and DME + Limited Time Free Shipping on Malt!

When it comes to storing grain and DME, we’re concerned about keeping ingredients fresh minimizing oxygen and moisture exposure.  We’re also interest in keeping Grain and DME away from possible pests.  Beyond that convenient access and efficient use of space are issues to consider.  This post also includes some tips and general sizing guidelines.

Buckets for Grain Storage – Pros and Cons

Pictured: Food Grade Buckets via Amazon

Buckets are one of the most basic and popular options out there and for good reason.  They are generally easy to source, well made and cheap.  Food safe options are also easy to find.

Search Food Grade Bucket on Amazon

Grain Storage Capacity Estimations

My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is about 5 lbs per gallon for unmilled malt storage.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.  A 5 gallon bucket holds about 25 lbs Two buckets = a 50 lb bag.  Two 6 gallon buckets would comfortably hold a 55 lb bag.

Continue reading

Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage

This review is by Homebrew Finds Contributor Brad Probert.  Brad is an engineer, expert homebrewer and experienced reviewer.  Grab a link to Brad’s website at the end of this review.

Vittles Vault Storage Bins

Gamma2 as a company is 100% dedicated to their mission of designing and providing pet food containers to animal owners (technically they also care about your dog getting out of the pool, as they make a doggy pool exit ramp). But, that doesn’t mean these “pet food containers” can’t be co-opted for homebrewing. The same characteristics that make them ideal for pet food, also make them ideal for malt storage.

Vittles Vault 60-lb Container

I’ll go through a few storage basics for malt. First, you want to store it uncrushed, so that the husk helps keep the good stuff inside protected from the environment. Cracked grain kernels are more enticing to critters, and opens up the endosperm to fast staling. Beyond that, grain wants to be kept at cooler room temperatures (40 – 60F), dry, away from light, and in an airtight environment. Maltsters range in the max recommended storage time, with most in the 12-18 months range, and some up to 24 months. When you buy grains by the 55-lb sack, most will put a “best by” date on the label, since you don’t know how old it is before you get it. Although you can save money by buying grains in bulk, you need to make sure you have the right throughput to use it up before it stales.

Lid o-ring Out of Groove on Right Side

Gamma2 has a number of different types and sizes of storage containers. All are designed to be airtight, so they keep air from getting in and staling your grains when you’re not scooping it. (Which of course, the same thing can’t be said for that 55-lb sack of grain you’ve got in the corner, with a stretch of duct tape over the hole you cut into it…) The lid design is how they achieve this air-tightness. There’s a compliant o-ring that’s held in a groove on the lid which gets compressed down onto a chamfered face on the body of the container to make the seal. As the threaded lid gets screwed down, the o-ring will get squished to block off the air-leak path past the lid.


Check Pricing and Available Sizes & Configurations, Review Continues Below

Also Mentioned in This Review:

Continue reading

Mason Jars For Homebrew Ingredient Storage – Hops and More

You can use Mason jars to store hops, grain, yeast slurry and more. Fermentation lids are also available to convert these to be easily used for yeast starters. And, of course, you can serve your beer and other drinks in a one of these. Mason jars generally economical, reusable, oxygen impermeable and you can easily see the contents.

Jar Sizes

A variety of manufacturers make Mason Jars. Ball, Knorr and more. There are two standard sizes regular and wide mouth. This is important when it comes to attachments and lids as these must be size compatible.

Continue reading

Homebrew Storage Options! – Base Grain, Specialty Grain and DME

When it comes to storing grain and DME, we’re concerned about keeping ingredients fresh minimizing oxygen and moisture exposure.  We’re also interest in keeping Grain and DME away from possible pests.  Beyond that convenient access and efficient use of space are issues to consider.  This post also includes some tips and general sizing guidelines.

Buckets for Grain Storage – Pros and Cons

Pictured: Food Grade Buckets via Amazon

Buckets are one of the most basic and popular options out there and for good reason.  They are generally easy to source, well made and cheap.  Food safe options are also easy to find.

Search Food Grade Bucket on Amazon

Grain Storage Capacity Estimations

My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is about 5 lbs per gallon for unmilled malt storage.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.  A 5 gallon bucket holds about 25 lbs Two buckets = a 50 lb bag.  Two 6 gallon buckets would comfortably hold a 55 lb bag.

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Get Food Grade Buckets for Cheap – or FREE

Bucket photo courtesy of MoreBeer – Search MoreBeer for “Bucket”  – For illustrative purposes, I’m not suggesting that you buy this.  Read the tip below.

Why Buckets?

Buckets are super handy around your home brewery and beyond.  Potential Uses: Convert to a Fermenter, Convert to a Mash Tun, Grain Storage, lugging around stuff on brew day, general storage, use to help with cleaning and sanitation.

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Mylar Bags for Grain Storage!

Thanks to HBF Reader Steve for this photo!  Let’s be friends!  8 Ways to Connect with HBF

Mylar bags generally have low oxygen permeability and block light. You can store hops, other brewing ingredients and more in Mylar bags. Check out my techniques for sealing (smaller) Mylar bags using traditional vacuum sealers.

Large 5 gallon or so food grade Mylar Bags have become readily accessible and generally inexpensive.

Steve’s picture above shows about 25 lbs of malt in a 5 gallon bag.

There are lots more options out there. My tips are… Look for something that’s made for food use and something that has a resealable top.

Search Amazon for 5 gallon resealable food grade Mylar bags – to shop around

Pictured: 5 Gallon Mylar Bags for Food Storage and Labels (16 PCS) Total 10.5 Mil 17.5×27.2″ Thick Food Grade Zipper Resealable Large Mylar bags and Heat Sealable for Long Term Food Storage SENDGREEN – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

More Storage Options!…

Get a Deal on Bulk Grain

deals on sacks of malt

Continue reading

Mason Jars For Homebrew Ingredient Storage, Yeast Starters and More

You can use Mason jars to store hops, grain, yeast slurry and more. Fermentation lids are also available to convert these to be easily used for yeast starters. And, of course, you can serve your beer and other drinks in a one of these. Mason jars generally economical, reusable, oxygen impermeable and you can easily see the contents.

Jar Sizes

A variety of manufacturers make Mason Jars. Ball, Knorr and more. There are two standard sizes regular and wide mouth. This is important when it comes to attachments and lids as these must be size compatible.

Continue reading

Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage!

This review is by Homebrew Finds Contributor Brad Probert.  Brad is an engineer, expert homebrewer and experienced reviewer.  Grab a link to Brad’s website at the end of this review.

Vittles Vault Storage Bins

Gamma2 as a company is 100% dedicated to their mission of designing and providing pet food containers to animal owners (technically they also care about your dog getting out of the pool, as they make a doggy pool exit ramp). But, that doesn’t mean these “pet food containers” can’t be co-opted for homebrewing. The same characteristics that make them ideal for pet food, also make them ideal for malt storage.

Vittles Vault 60-lb Container

I’ll go through a few storage basics for malt. First, you want to store it uncrushed, so that the husk helps keep the good stuff inside protected from the environment. Cracked grain kernels are more enticing to critters, and opens up the endosperm to fast staling. Beyond that, grain wants to be kept at cooler room temperatures (40 – 60F), dry, away from light, and in an airtight environment. Maltsters range in the max recommended storage time, with most in the 12-18 months range, and some up to 24 months. When you buy grains by the 55-lb sack, most will put a “best by” date on the label, since you don’t know how old it is before you get it. Although you can save money by buying grains in bulk, you need to make sure you have the right throughput to use it up before it stales.

Lid o-ring Out of Groove on Right Side

Gamma2 has a number of different types and sizes of storage containers. All are designed to be airtight, so they keep air from getting in and staling your grains when you’re not scooping it. (Which of course, the same thing can’t be said for that 55-lb sack of grain you’ve got in the corner, with a stretch of duct tape over the hole you cut into it…) The lid design is how they achieve this air-tightness. There’s a compliant o-ring that’s held in a groove on the lid which gets compressed down onto a chamfered face on the body of the container to make the seal. As the threaded lid gets screwed down, the o-ring will get squished to block off the air-leak path past the lid.


Limited Time Deal!

As of this posting, the 25 lb size of is on sale for $28.95  and the 50 lb size is on sale for $36.99.

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Check Pricing and Available Sizes & Configurations, Review Continues Below

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Homebrew Grain Storage Capacity Rule of Thumb

malt storage capacity

Part of Our Homebrew Tips and Tricks Series.  Check out the complete list – Homebrewing Tips, Tricks & Shortcuts!


Get a Deal on Grain!

deals on sacks of malt

deals on sacks of malt

Storage Options Resource Post!

Vittles Vault Review!

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Make sure the components you use are compatible and rated for your intended application.  Contact manufacturer with questions about suitability or a specific application.  Always read and follow manufacturer directions. rp:tips#25

Get Food Grade Buckets for Cheap – or FREE

Bucket photo courtesy of MoreBeer – Search MoreBeer for “Bucket”  – For illustrative purposes, I’m not suggesting that you buy this.  Read the tip below.

Why Buckets?

Buckets are super handy around your home brewery and beyond.  Potential Uses: Convert to a Fermenter, Convert to a Mash Tun, Grain Storage, lugging around stuff on brew day, general storage, use to help with cleaning and sanitation.

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Homebrew Storage Options! – Base Grain, Specialty Grain and DME

When it comes to storing grain and DME, we’re concerned about keeping ingredients fresh minimizing oxygen and moisture exposure.  We’re also interest in keeping Grain and DME away from possible pests.  Beyond that convenient access and efficient use of space are issues to consider.  This post also includes some tips and general sizing guidelines.

Buckets for Grain Storage – Pros and Cons

Pictured: Food Grade Buckets via Amazon

Buckets are one of the most basic and popular options out there and for good reason.  They are generally easy to source, well made and cheap.  Food safe options are also easy to find.

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Grain Storage Capacity Estimations

My rule of thumb for grain storage capacity is about 5 lbs per gallon for unmilled malt storage.  That’s a rough estimate, actual storage capacity will vary.  A 5 gallon bucket holds about 25 lbs Two buckets = a 50 lb bag.  Two 6 gallon buckets would comfortably hold a 55 lb bag.

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