A microbial control method includes applying dry particles of alkali metal bisulfate to an outer surface of a dry food to control microbial contamination of the food. A food composition includes a dry food having an outer surface covered with dry particles of alkali metal bisulfate that control microbial contamination of the food. The microbes can survive and remain dormant on the foods for long periods of time under dry conditions. Accidental introduction of water to the foods in the process environment can cause revival and growth of the microbes and severe contamination problems.