A pantry should be kept dry and well ventilated. Ensure it is well protected against rodents and insects, shelves and surfaces should be easy to clean. Separate the products into categories. Heavy products and bottles should be kept on the lower shelves, with the product labels should be facing forward. UHT milk should be placed on a shelf and not directly on the floor. Food products and non-food products should be kept separate.
Don't place bananas or kiwis next to other fruit, as these two particular fruits release a gas that accelerates the maturity of other fruits.
Don't buy damaged cans of food. For instance dented, eroded or rusty cans should be avoided. Any existing damaged cans of food should be consumed first. Don't store a product in the can once it has been opened, as some acidic foods can react with the can material. Place the remainder of the product in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
When buying dried food, ensure that the packaging is intact, sealed and free of moisture. Once opened, dried food should be stored in a metallic or glass vacuum-sealed container.