That article came from a friend of mine, who did his own experiments. There are foodsaver bags that are higher-barrier than the standard ones, but even then, they won't perform as well as multi-layer foil/Mylar bags. Basically, if you can see light through it, it's probably not ideal.
Mylar (did you know there are over 300 types?), like all PETs, can break down over time if exposed to UV, so it's advisable to store them for long term use in the dark. But, the bags I experimented with have shown no degradation over nearly 20 years. One thing I really liked about them is that the open tops could be folded over several times and secured with a binder clip, forming an excellent seal. I've had tobacco in one since my early exploration of them, tasting it periodically, and it's still in perfect condition, though the repeated exposure to the atmosphere have prevented real aging from happening. Indeed, a good high-barrier bag is a great alternative to glass. Most are internally coated with a copolymer that allows for heat sealing. They're light, don't break, and have the added benefit of being able to adapt to content quantity. I think they're great.
I'll see about building a tobacco factory "on" the Principality of Sealand (look it up - it's a hoot). That would definitely add a bit to the "exotic" factor, although transportation costs resulting from the 7mile dinghy trips back and fort might prove to be prohibitive... That is, if they let me on the "island" to begin with.
