If you've discovered a tiny hole in one of the mountain house meals, it's advisable to exercise caution. While a small hole might not necessarily mean the entire batch is compromised, it does increase the risk of contamination. Mice and other pests can carry diseases, and their presence in the vicinity of stored food raises concerns.
Here are some steps you can consider:
Inspect Carefully: Thoroughly examine each of the remaining 19 packs for any signs of damage or holes. Pay close attention, even to small punctures that might be easily missed.
Packaging Integrity: Ensure that the packaging of the other meals is intact. If you find any additional holes or damage, it's safer to discard those packs.
Odor and Appearance: Check for any unusual odors or changes in the appearance of the meals. If anything seems off, it's better to err on the side of caution.
Contact the Manufacturer: If you have concerns about the safety of the remaining packs, consider reaching out to the manufacturer. They can provide guidance on whether the meals are still safe for consumption.
Storage: Ensure that the remaining packs are stored in a secure location where pests cannot access them.
It's essential to prioritize food safety, especially when there's a possibility of contamination. If in doubt, it's better to be cautious and avoid consuming potentially compromised food.
I checked every other package and they look flawless otherwise I would have tossed them. The one that was chewed into was much older, different packaging (the old packing). My guess is that it was chewed on a trip before he bought the other packs. I have no desire to take a chance but I thought mnt house meals were ok if opened for years. They have to little air to squeeze and find anything but a big hole, no packs had a big hole, or even a small visible hole. My thoughts are if mnt house are ok opened I will keep them. Cooking with a tiny hole is not an issue, they soak up water way to fast for a tiny hole to leak enough water to cause any issues.
All meals came out of a plastic tub that mice could not get into - and chewed one was under all new ones. No idea why my dad saved it but then again I am going through his house now and I have no idea why he saved several thousand things:)
I am trying to make as much use out of stuff because it gives my parents some satisfaction. They had to leave almost everything when they moved in with my brother and his wife in Las Vegas. My dad specifically asked me to make use of them.
"If I find myself with a hole in my Mt house pouch in elk area 123 in Wyoming, surrounded be screaming bulls at this specific grid point that I will never hunt again, then what should I do?"
"Listen up, folks! If you stumble upon a minuscule breach in those mountain house meals, it's time to kick caution into high gear. Now, a tiny hole doesn't mean the whole shebang is in jeopardy, but it sure cranks up the contamination risk. We've got mice and pests lurking around, carrying diseases that could throw a real wrench into your chow plans.
Here's the lowdown, Eastman style:
1. Recon Mission: Dive into the remaining 19 packs like your life depends on it. Hunt down signs of damage or sneaky holes, even the ones trying to play hide-and-seek.
2. Packaging Checkpoint: Make sure the fortress – the packaging – is standing strong. If you spot any additional breaches, it's time to cut ties with those vulnerable packs.
3. Scent and Sight Safari: Sniff out any odd aromas or changes in appearance. Trust your instincts; if it looks or smells off, it probably is.
4. SOS to the Makers: Feeling uneasy about the safety of your remaining stash? Drop a line to the folks who whipped up these meals. They'll steer you clear of culinary danger.
5. Bunker Down: Lock away those remaining packs in a pest-proof stronghold. We can't let critters play havoc with our rations.
In the realm of survival, food safety is the top dog. When in doubt, channel your inner Eastman – be smart, be cautious, and steer clear of any grub that might throw a curveball your way."
I also marked them so in the field when I open them I will make 1 last double check when I open them.
