Calculating Your Long-Term Food Storage Needs
Long-term food storage is an essential part of any emergency preparedness plan. But how much food do you actually need to store? In this section, we will discuss the importance of calculating your long-term food storage needs and provide you with a formula to help you determine how much food you should have on hand.
The Importance of Calculating Food Storage Needs
Calculating your long-term food storage needs is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that you have enough food to sustain you and your family in the event of a global catastrophe. Second, it helps you to avoid overstocking your food supply, which can lead to waste and spoilage. Finally, it enables you to budget and plan for your food storage needs with confidence.
The Formula for Calculating Your Long-Term Food Storage Needs
To determine how much food you should have in your long-term food storage, you will need to calculate the number of calories you need per day. The average adult needs approximately 2,000 calories per day to maintain their weight. However, this number can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and activity level.
To calculate your daily caloric needs, use the following formula:
Body weight (in pounds) x 13 = Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
BMR x Activity Level = Daily Caloric Needs
Your activity level is a multiplier that takes into account your level of physical activity. For example, if you are sedentary, your activity level is 1.2. If you are moderately active, your activity level is 1.55. If you are very active, your activity level is 1.9.
Factors That Affect Your Caloric Needs
Several factors can affect your caloric needs, including age, gender, and activity level. Women generally require fewer calories than men, and older adults require fewer calories than younger adults. Additionally, people who engage in regular physical activity require more calories than those who are sedentary.
It's essential to consider these factors when calculating your long-term food storage needs. By doing so, you can ensure that you have enough food to sustain you and your family in the event of a global catastrophe.
Choosing the Right Foods for Long-Term Storage
When it comes to long-term food storage, not all foods are created equal. In this section, we will discuss the types of foods that are best for long-term storage, as well as some tips for choosing the right foods for your storage needs.
Types of Foods for Long-Term Storage
According to fcs.uga.edu, the following types of foods are ideal for long-term storage:
- Bulk staples: These include foods such as rice, beans, and wheat. They are affordable, easy to store, and have a long shelf life.
- Canned and dried foods: Canned and dried foods are also great options for long-term storage. They are convenient, have a long shelf life, and are available in a variety of flavors and varieties.
- Freeze-dried foods: Freeze-dried foods are a popular choice for long-term food storage. They are lightweight, easy to store, and have a shelf life of up to 25 years.
Recommended Foods and Their Shelf Life
As per survivalworld.com, the following table provides a list of recommended foods for long-term storage and their shelf life:
| Food | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| White rice | 30 years |
| Wheat | 30 years |
| Dehydrated beans | 10+ years |
| Canned meat | 2-5 years |
| Canned fruits/veggies | 2-5 years |
| Freeze-dried fruits/veggies | 25 years |
It's important to note that the shelf life of these foods can vary depending on storage conditions. According to fcs.uga.edu, proper storage conditions can help extend the shelf life of your food supply.
The Importance of Vitamin and Protein Supplements
When planning your long-term food storage, it's important to consider the nutritional value of the foods you are storing. According to fcs.uga.edu, vitamin and protein supplements are essential for maintaining good health during a global catastrophe.
Some good options for protein supplements include canned meat, peanut butter, and powdered milk. Vitamin supplements can be found in the form of multivitamins or individual vitamin supplements.
Consider Dietary Requirements and Preferences
When choosing foods for your long-term storage, it's important to consider any dietary requirements or preferences you or your family members may have. For example, if someone in your family is gluten intolerant, you will need to choose gluten-free options for your food storage.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your long-term food storage plan meets the nutritional needs of everyone in your family.
Storing Your Food Supply
Storing your long-term food supply properly is essential for ensuring that it remains fresh and edible. In this section, we will discuss some tips for storing your food supply to maximize its shelf life.
Store Your Food Off the Floor
As per fcs.uga.edu, it's important to store your food supply off the floor to protect it from moisture and pests. You can use shelves, pallets, or other raised surfaces to keep your food supply elevated.
Keep Your Food in a Clean, Dry, and Dark Place
According to fcs.uga.edu, it's important to store your food in a clean, dry, and dark place. Moisture, light, and heat can all cause your food supply to spoil more quickly.
Consider Temperature and Humidity Levels
Temperature and humidity levels can also affect the shelf life of your food supply. According to theprovidentprepper.org, the ideal temperature for storing dry foods is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity levels should be kept below 15 percent to prevent spoilage.
Rotate Your Food Supply
Rotating your food supply is important to ensure that your food remains fresh and edible. According to mypatriotsupply.com, a good rule of thumb is to rotate your food supply every 6-12 months.
Label Your Food Supply
Labeling your food supply can help you keep track of what you have and when it was stored. According to beprepared.com, labels should include the date the food was stored and the expiration date. You may also want to include the calorie count and any dietary restrictions.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your long-term food storage remains fresh and edible for as long as possible.
Purchasing Your Long-Term Food Supply
When it comes to purchasing your long-term food supply, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss some tips for purchasing your long-term food supply.
Buy from Reputable Suppliers
According to theprovidentprepper.org, it's important to buy your long-term food supply from reputable suppliers. Look for suppliers who specialize in emergency food storage and have a good track record of providing high-quality products.
Consider Calorie Count
When purchasing your long-term food supply, it's important to consider the calorie count of the foods you are buying. According to beprepared.com, you should aim for a minimum of 1,200 calories per day per person. This will ensure that you have enough energy to get through a global catastrophe.
Start Small and Build Gradually
As per theprovidentprepper.org, it's important to start small when building your long-term food supply. Begin by purchasing a few extra items each time you go to the grocery store. Over time, you can build up your supply gradually.
Consider Your Budget
When purchasing your long-term food supply, it's important to consider your budget. According to mypatriotsupply.com, long-term food storage can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. For example, you can purchase in bulk, shop during sales, and choose less expensive options.
Don't Forget About Water
In addition to food, it's important to have a supply of water for a global catastrophe. According to survivalworld.com, you should aim for a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day. You can store water in clean, food-grade containers and rotate it every 6-12 months.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality, affordable, and well-rounded long-term food supply that will meet your needs during a global catastrophe.
Cooking and Preparing Your Long-Term Food Supply
When it comes to cooking and preparing your long-term food supply, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss some tips for cooking and preparing your long-term food supply.
Learn How to Cook with Your Food Storage
According to survivalworld.com, it's important to learn how to cook with your food storage before a global catastrophe occurs. This will ensure that you are familiar with the foods you have stored and know how to prepare them.
Invest in a Good Quality Cook Stove
Investing in a good quality cook stove can make a big difference when it comes to cooking your long-term food supply. According to mypatriotsupply.com, a propane camp stove or a rocket stove are good options for cooking during a global catastrophe.
Don't Forget About Utensils and Cookware
In addition to a cook stove, it's important to have the proper utensils and cookware for preparing your long-term food supply. According to beprepared.com, you should have a variety of utensils and cookware, including pots, pans, knives, and utensils.
Consider Alternative Cooking Methods
In the event of a power outage or other emergency situation, it may be necessary to use alternative cooking methods. According to theprovidentprepper.org, alternative cooking methods include solar ovens, Dutch ovens, and open fires.
Practice Safe Food Handling and Storage
When cooking and preparing your long-term food supply, it's important to practice safe food handling and storage. According to fcs.uga.edu, you should wash your hands before handling food, store food at the proper temperature, and cook food to the proper temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are prepared to cook and prepare your long-term food supply in the event of a global catastrophe.
Maintaining Your Long-Term Food Supply
Maintaining your long-term food supply is essential for ensuring that it remains fresh and edible. In this section, we will discuss some tips for maintaining your long-term food supply.
Check Your Food Supply Regularly
According to beprepared.com, it's important to check your food supply regularly to ensure that it remains fresh and edible. Check for signs of spoilage, such as mold, off smells, and discoloration.
Rotate Your Food Supply
Rotating your food supply is important to ensure that your food remains fresh and edible. According to mypatriotsupply.com, a good rule of thumb is to rotate your food supply every 6-12 months. Use the oldest items first and replace them with fresh items.
Store Your Food Properly
Storing your food properly is essential for ensuring that it remains fresh and edible. According to fcs.uga.edu, you should store your food off the floor in clean, dry, and dark places away from moisture. You can use shelves, pallets, or other raised surfaces to keep your food supply elevated.
Keep Your Food Supply Cool and Dry
Temperature and humidity levels can also affect the shelf life of your food supply. According to theprovidentprepper.org, you should store your food supply in cool, dry locations with a temperature between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity levels should be kept below 15 percent to prevent spoilage.
Consider Using Oxygen Absorbers
Oxygen absorbers can help to extend the shelf life of your long-term food supply. According to survivalworld.com, oxygen absorbers remove oxygen from food storage containers and prevent spoilage. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using oxygen absorbers.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your long-term food supply remains fresh and edible for as long as possible.
Be Prepared for Any Emergency
In conclusion, having a long-term food supply for a global catastrophe is essential for survival. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your long-term food supply is high-quality, well-rounded, and properly maintained.
Remember to purchase from reputable suppliers, consider calorie count and your budget, learn how to cook with your food storage, and practice safe food handling and storage.
Maintaining your long-term food supply by checking it regularly, rotating it, storing it properly, and keeping it cool and dry is also important. Consider using oxygen absorbers to extend its shelf life.
By being proactive and preparing now, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for any emergency that may come your way.
Thank you for reading this article, and be sure to check out our other great content on emergencypreparedness.cc.
FAQs
Who should have a long-term food storage plan for global catastrophe?
Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies and ensure their survival.
What should I consider when buying long-term food storage for global catastrophe?
Consider calorie count, dietary requirements, and purchase from reputable suppliers.
How can I properly store my long-term food supply for global catastrophe?
Store your food off the floor in clean, dry, dark places away from moisture.
What are some alternative cooking methods for long-term food storage during a global catastrophe?
Alternative cooking methods include solar ovens, Dutch ovens, and open fires.
How often should I check my long-term food supply for global catastrophe?
Regularly check for mold, off smells, and discoloration every 6-12 months.
What if my long-term food supply for global catastrophe is too expensive?
Buy in bulk, purchase during sales, and consider growing your own food to save money.
