The Best Foods for Long Term Storage
When it comes to extreme prepping, having a long term food storage plan is crucial. The last thing you want to worry about in an emergency situation is where your next meal is coming from. However, not all foods are created equal when it comes to long term storage. Here are some of the best foods to store for long term food storage:
Grain and Flour
Grains and flour are a great option for long term food storage. They are versatile and can be used to make a wide variety of meals. When storing grains and flour, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Some recommended types of grains and flour to store include:
- Wheat
- Rice
- Cornmeal
- Oats
- Barley
Canned and Dried Foods
Canned and dried foods are another great option for long term food storage. They have a long shelf life and are easy to store. Some recommended types of canned and dried foods to store include:
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Dried fruits and vegetables
- Canned meats and fish
- Dried meats and fish
- Canned soups and stews
Fats and Oils
Fats and oils are important to have in your long term food storage plan. They are a great source of energy and can be used for cooking and baking. When storing fats and oils, it is important to keep them in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage. Some recommended types of fats and oils to store include:
- Vegetable oil
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Ghee
Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are a great source of protein and can be stored for long periods of time. When storing beans and legumes, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Some recommended types of beans and legumes to store include:
- Black beans
- Kidney beans
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Split peas
Milk and Dairy
Milk and dairy products can be a bit more challenging to store long term, but it is still possible. It is important to store milk and dairy products in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Some recommended types of milk and dairy to store include:
- Powdered milk
- Powdered cheese
- Powdered butter
Sugars
Sugars are another important item to have in your long term food storage plan. They can be used for cooking and baking, as well as to sweeten drinks. Some recommended types of sugars to store include:
- White sugar
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Molasses
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are important for maintaining a healthy diet, even in an emergency situation. While fresh fruits and vegetables may not be practical for long term storage, there are other options. Some recommended types of fruits and vegetables to store include:
- Freeze-dried fruits and vegetables
- Dehydrated fruits and vegetables
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Pickled fruits and vegetables
By stocking up on these recommended foods, you can be prepared for any emergency situation that comes your way. In the next section, we will discuss how to properly store your long term food supplies to ensure they stay fresh and edible for as long as possible.
How to Store Long Term Food Supplies
Storing your long term food supplies properly is just as important as selecting the right foods. Proper storage can help prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of your supplies. Here are some factors to consider when storing your long term food supplies and tips to ensure they stay fresh:
Factors to Consider When Storing Long Term Food Supplies
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature and humidity are two of the most important factors to consider when storing long term food supplies. Most foods should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Ideally, the temperature should be between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity should be less than 15 percent (source: UGA Extension.
Light Exposure
Light exposure can also affect the shelf life of your long term food supplies. Light can cause certain foods to break down and spoil more quickly. To prevent this, store your food supplies in a dark or low-light area (source: The Provident Prepper.
Air Circulation
Air circulation is important for preventing spoilage and extending the shelf life of your long term food supplies. Proper air circulation can help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and other problems. Make sure to store your supplies in a well-ventilated area (source: EZ Prepping.
Tips for Storing Long Term Food Supplies
Proper Containers for Food Storage
When storing your long term food supplies, it is important to use the proper containers. Plastic buckets with airtight lids are a great option for storing grains, flour, and other dry goods. Glass jars with airtight lids are ideal for storing herbs, spices, and other small items (source: Backdoor Survival.
Labeling and Rotating Food Supplies
Labeling and rotating your food supplies is important for ensuring they stay fresh. Always label your containers with the contents and the date they were stored. This will help you keep track of what you have and when it needs to be rotated. Make sure to rotate your supplies regularly to ensure you are always using the oldest supplies first (source: The Provident Prepper.
Storage Location
The location where you store your long term food supplies is also important. It should be a cool, dry, and dark place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Some good options include a basement, pantry, or closet (source: Practical Preppers.
By following these tips, you can ensure your long term food supplies stay fresh and edible for as long as possible. In the next section, we will discuss some recommended emergency food supply options for those who may not have the time or resources to build their own long term food storage plan from scratch.
Recommended Emergency Food Supply Options
While it is ideal to create your own long term food storage plan, it may not always be possible due to lack of resources or time. In such cases, there are pre-made emergency food supply options available that can help meet your needs.
Here are some recommended emergency food supply options:
Augason Farms 30-Day 1-Person Emergency Food Supply
This emergency food supply option comes with a 30-day supply of food for one person. It includes a variety of foods such as entrees, soups, and fruits, with an average of 1,854 calories per day. The food is stored in six gallon-sized pails with airtight lids, providing a 25-year shelf life. This option is great for those who want a simple solution with a long shelf life (source: EZ Prepping.
ReadyWise Long Term Emergency Food Supply
This emergency food supply option comes with a variety of entrees, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks with real ingredients and below-average sodium levels. It includes 240 servings and has a 25-year shelf life. This option is great for those who want more variety in their emergency food supply (source: EZ Prepping.
Build Your Own Emergency Food Supply
While pre-made emergency food supply options are available, it is always better to create your own long term food storage plan when possible. This allows you to choose foods that meet your dietary requirements and preferences, as well as ensure the quality and freshness of the food.
When building your own emergency food supply, consider the following:
Food Types
Choose foods that have a long shelf life, such as canned goods, dried fruits and vegetables, grains, and protein supplements (source: UGA Extension.
Quantity
Plan for at least a two-week supply of food for each person in your household (source: CDC.
Storage
Store your long term food supplies in a cool, dry, dark place away from moisture and direct sunlight (source: Practical Preppers.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can create a long term food storage plan that meets your needs and ensures you are prepared for any emergency.
Canning and Freezing: Methods for Long Term Food Storage
Canning and freezing are two popular methods for preserving food for long term storage. These methods can help extend the shelf life of your food supplies and ensure that you have access to fresh, nutritious foods in times of need.
Canning
Canning is a great method for preserving fruits, vegetables, and meats. There are two types of canning methods: water bath canning and pressure canning.
Water Bath Canning
Water bath canning is a method used for high-acid foods such as fruits, jams, jellies, and pickles. The food is placed in jars and covered with boiling water to create a vacuum seal.
Pressure Canning
Pressure canning is a method used for low-acid foods such as meats, vegetables, and soups. The food is placed in jars and heated to a high temperature under pressure to kill bacteria and create a vacuum seal.
When canning, it is important to follow proper safety procedures to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Make sure to sterilize all equipment and jars before use and follow a tested recipe (source: Backdoor Survival.
Freezing
Freezing is a great method for preserving meats, fruits, and vegetables. Freezing can help preserve the color, texture, and flavor of the food.
Blanching
Before freezing vegetables, it is recommended to blanch them to stop the enzyme action that can cause loss of flavor, color, and texture. To blanch vegetables, place them in boiling water for a few minutes, then remove them and place them in ice water to stop the cooking process.
Packaging
When freezing food, it is important to package it properly to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. Use freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label and date each package to keep track of the contents and the date they were frozen (source: UGA Extension.
By using these methods, you can extend the shelf life of your food supplies and ensure that you have access to fresh, nutritious foods in times of need.
Conclusion: Be Prepared with Long Term Food Storage
Long term food storage is an important aspect of emergency preparedness. By having a well-stocked food supply, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for any emergency.
In this article, we discussed the importance of long term food storage and provided tips for storing your food supplies properly. We also recommended some emergency food supply options for those who may not have the time or resources to create their own long term food storage plan.
We also discussed two methods for preserving food for long term storage: canning and freezing. These methods can help extend the shelf life of your food supplies and ensure that you have access to fresh, nutritious foods in times of need.
Remember, it is important to plan ahead and start building your long term food storage plan early. Consider the factors discussed in this article when selecting foods, storing them properly, and rotating your supplies regularly. By taking these steps, you can be prepared for any emergency that may come your way.
Ready to Start Your Long Term Food Storage Plan?
We hope that this article has provided you with the information you need to start your long term food storage plan. Remember, being prepared for emergencies is important, and having a well-stocked food supply is a key aspect of emergency preparedness.
If you want to learn more about emergency preparedness and other related topics, be sure to check out our other great content on EmergencyPreparedness.cc. We have articles on a wide range of topics, from first aid and survival skills to home security and disaster planning.
Thank you for reading, and we wish you the best in your emergency preparedness efforts.
Questions
Q. Who should have a long term food storage plan for extreme prepping?
A. Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies and disasters should have a long term food storage plan.
Q. What foods are best for long term food storage for extreme prepping?
A. Foods that are shelf-stable, high in calories and nutrients, and have a long shelf life such as grains, canned and dried meats, and freeze-dried meals.
Q. How can I store my long term food supplies for extreme prepping?
A. Store your food supplies in a cool, dry, and dark place away from moisture and pests. Use airtight containers or mylar bags to keep food fresh.
Q. What is the shelf life of long term food storage for extreme prepping?
A. Shelf life varies depending on the type of food and storage conditions, but some foods can last up to 25 years or longer.
Q. How can I rotate my long term food storage supplies for extreme prepping?
A. Rotate your supplies by using the oldest food first and replacing it with fresh food. Keep track of expiration dates and inventory levels.
Q. What if I don't have the time or resources to create my own long term food storage plan for extreme prepping?
A. Consider purchasing emergency food supply kits from trusted suppliers. Augason Farms and ReadyWise offer options with a 25-year shelf life.
