What is the standard safety guideline for positioning dry bulk foods relative to the floor in long-term storage?
Storing these items at least six inches off the floor is standard practice to guard against moisture wicking and pests.
The longevity of dry pantry staples like rice, wheat, and beans is critically dependent on keeping them completely dry and secure from infestation. A standard safety guideline addresses the risk posed by the floor surface itself. Because concrete can be damp or provide a pathway for moisture wicking upward, and because pests often travel along floor lines, it is mandated that these dry bulk items be stored elevated. Specifically, they should be kept at least six inches above the floor level. This practice provides a crucial buffer against environmental humidity migrating up from the ground and helps prevent potential pest intrusion or contamination from incidental spills or dampness on the floor surface.
