Long-Term Food Storage Guide: Why It Is Important to Be Prepared
Natural disasters and emergencies can happen at any time and it is important to be prepared. Having a long-term food storage plan is an essential part of being prepared for such situations. In case of a crisis, such as a pandemic or a natural disaster, having a food supply that can last for months or even years can be life-saving. In this long-term food storage guide, we will cover everything you need to know about preparing and storing food for emergencies.
The Importance of Long-Term Food Storage
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), nearly 60% of American adults have not practiced what to do in a disaster. This means that the majority of people are not prepared for emergencies and may not have access to food, water, or other essential supplies for days or even weeks. In such situations, having a long-term food supply can be crucial.
Brief Statistics on Natural Disasters and Emergencies
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2020 was a record-breaking year for natural disasters in the United States. There were 22 separate weather and climate disasters that each caused at least $1 billion in damage. These included hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for being prepared for emergencies, as it has caused supply chain disruptions and shortages of essential goods.
The Purpose of the Article
The purpose of this long-term food storage guide is to provide you with the information and resources you need to prepare and store food for emergencies. We will cover what foods to store, how to store them, and how to ensure that your food supply will last for an extended period of time. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure that you and your family will have access to food in case of an emergency.
What to Store for Long-Term Food Storage
When preparing for long-term food storage, it is important to consider what foods to store. In general, it is best to store foods that are non-perishable and have a long shelf life. Here are some of the recommended foods to store for long-term food storage:
Bulk Staples
Bulk staples are foods that can be stored in large quantities and can provide a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Some of the most common bulk staples to store include:
- Rice: Rice is a great staple to store as it has a long shelf life and is easy to cook. It can be stored in large quantities and can provide a good source of carbohydrates. According to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, white rice can last up to 30 years when stored properly.
- Pasta: Pasta is another great staple to store as it has a long shelf life and is easy to cook. It can be stored in large quantities and can provide a good source of carbohydrates. According to Build A Stash, pasta can last up to 30 years when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Beans: Beans are a great source of protein and can be stored in large quantities. They have a long shelf life and can provide a good source of fiber as well. According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, dry beans can last up to 30 years when stored properly.
Canned and Dried Foods
Canned and dried foods are also great options for long-term food storage. They have a long shelf life and can provide a good source of essential nutrients. Some of the most common canned and dried foods to store include:
- Canned meats and vegetables: Canned meats and vegetables can provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. They have a long shelf life and can be stored in large quantities. According to Family Survival Planning, canned goods can last up to five years or more when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Dried fruits and vegetables: Dried fruits and vegetables are also great options for long-term food storage. They can provide a good source of fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. According to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, dried fruits and vegetables can last up to 12 months when stored properly.
- Cereals and grains: Cereals and grains are also good options for long-term food storage. They can provide a good source of carbohydrates and essential nutrients. According to Fav Family Recipes, cereal and grains can last up to two years when stored in a cool, dry place.
Vitamin and Protein Supplements
In addition to storing staple foods, it is also important to consider storing vitamin and protein supplements. These can provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in other foods. Some of the most common vitamin and protein supplements to store include:
- Multivitamins: Multivitamins can provide a good source of essential vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in other foods. According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, multivitamins can last up to five years when stored properly.
- Protein powder: Protein powder can provide a good source of protein that may be lacking in other foods. It can be stored in large quantities and has a long shelf life. According to Family Survival Planning, protein powder can last up to two years when stored properly.
- Omega-3 supplements: Omega-3 supplements can provide essential fatty acids that may be lacking in other foods. They have a long shelf life and can be stored in large quantities. According to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, omega-3 supplements can last up to two years when stored properly.
Recommended Quantities for Different Family Sizes
When preparing for long-term food storage, it is important to consider the size of your family and how much food you will need. The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension recommends the following quantities for long-term food storage:
- 1 adult for 1 year: 300 pounds of grains, 75 pounds of legumes, 16 pounds of powdered milk, 60 pounds of sugar, and 4 pounds of salt.
- 1 adult for 6 months: 150 pounds of grains, 38 pounds of legumes, 8 pounds of powdered milk, 30 pounds of sugar, and 2 pounds of salt.
- 1 adult for 3 months: 75 pounds of grains, 19 pounds of legumes, 4 pounds of powdered milk, 15 pounds of sugar, and 1 pound of salt.
By storing the recommended quantities of these foods, you can ensure that you and your family will have access to essential nutrients in case of an emergency.
How to Store Long-Term Food
Storing food for the long term requires proper storage techniques to ensure that the food remains fresh and edible. Here are some tips on how to store long-term food:
Packaging Methods
One of the most important aspects of long-term food storage is proper packaging. The right packaging can help prevent spoilage and keep food fresh for an extended period of time. Some of the most common packaging methods for long-term food storage include:
- Mylar bags: Mylar bags are made of a durable material that can help protect food from moisture, air, and light. They are often used to store dried foods, such as grains, beans, and pasta. According to Build A Stash, mylar bags are one of the most effective packaging methods for long-term food storage.
- PETE bottles: PETE bottles are made of a type of plastic that is resistant to oxygen and can help keep food fresh for an extended period of time. They are often used to store liquids, such as cooking oil and vinegar. According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, PETE bottles are one of the best packaging methods for long-term food storage.
- Canning jars: Canning jars are another popular packaging method for long-term food storage. They are often used to store foods that have been canned at home, such as fruits and vegetables. According to Family Survival Planning, canning jars can be a good option for storing food for up to two years.
Oxygen Absorbers
Using oxygen absorbers can help prevent spoilage and keep food fresh for a longer period of time. Oxygen absorbers work by removing oxygen from the packaging, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Some of the most common oxygen absorbers to use for long-term food storage include:
- Iron-based absorbers: Iron-based absorbers are one of the most common types of oxygen absorbers used for long-term food storage. They are often used to store dried foods, such as grains, beans, and pasta. According to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, iron-based absorbers can help extend the shelf life of food for up to five years.
- Moisture absorbers: Moisture absorbers are another popular option for long-term food storage. They work by removing moisture from the packaging, which can help prevent spoilage and mold growth. According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, moisture absorbers can help extend the shelf life of food for up to two years.
Storage Conditions
In addition to proper packaging and the use of oxygen absorbers, it is also important to store food in the right conditions. The ideal conditions for long-term food storage include:
- Clean: Clean all containers and storage areas before storing food to prevent contamination.
- Dry: Store food in a dry environment to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage and mold growth.
- Cool: Store food in a cool environment, ideally between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, to help prevent spoilage.
- Dark: Store food in a dark environment to prevent exposure to light, which can cause nutrient loss and spoilage.
By following these tips for packaging, oxygen absorption, and storage conditions, you can ensure that your long-term food storage remains fresh and edible for an extended period of time.
How to Rotate Your Food Storage
Rotating your long-term food storage is essential to ensure that your food remains fresh and edible. Here are some tips on how to properly rotate your food storage:
First In, First Out (FIFO) Method
The FIFO method is a popular technique for rotating food storage. It involves using the oldest items in your storage first and replacing them with new items. This ensures that your food stays fresh and does not expire. Here are the steps to follow when using the FIFO method:
- Label all food storage containers with the date of purchase or expiration date.
- Store the oldest items at the front of your storage area.
- Use the oldest items first when cooking or preparing meals.
- Replace the used items with new items and store them at the back of your storage area.
Inventory Tracking
Keeping track of your inventory is another important aspect of rotating your food storage. This can help you identify which items need to be used first and which items need to be replaced. Here are some tips for keeping track of your inventory:
- Food storage calculator: Use a food storage calculator, such as the one provided by Fav Family Recipes, to determine how much food you need to store and how long it will last.
- Inventory list: Create an inventory list of all the items in your food storage and update it regularly.
- Expiration dates: Keep track of expiration dates and use the oldest items first.
Inspecting for Spoilage
Inspecting your food storage for spoilage is also an important part of rotating your food storage. This can help you identify any items that have gone bad and need to be thrown away. Here are some tips for inspecting your food storage:
- Visual inspection: Visually inspect all food storage containers for signs of spoilage, such as mold, discoloration, or an unusual odor.
- Taste test: Conduct a taste test on all food items before using them to ensure that they are still fresh and edible.
- Expiration dates: Check expiration dates regularly and remove any items that are past their expiration date.
By following these tips for rotating your food storage, you can ensure that your food remains fresh and edible for an extended period of time.
Conclusion
Proper long-term food storage is essential for ensuring that you and your family are prepared for emergencies and natural disasters. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your food remains fresh and edible for an extended period of time.
Remember to properly package your food, use oxygen absorbers, and store your food in the right conditions. Additionally, be sure to rotate your food storage using the FIFO method, keep track of your inventory, and inspect your food storage for spoilage regularly.
At EmergencyPreparedness.cc, we are committed to providing you with the best information and resources to help you prepare for emergencies and natural disasters. Be sure to check out our other great content for more tips and advice on emergency preparedness.
FAQs
Who should use a long-term food storage guide?
Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies and natural disasters.
What is the best way to package long-term food storage?
Mylar bags and PETE bottles with oxygen absorbers are among the best options.
How long can food be stored using long-term food storage techniques?
Properly stored food can remain edible for up to 30 years or more.
What is the FIFO method for rotating food storage?
The FIFO method involves using the oldest items in storage first.
How can I keep track of my long-term food storage inventory?
Use a food storage calculator and create an inventory list to track your items.
What should I do if I suspect my long-term food storage is spoiled?
Conduct a visual inspection, taste test, and check expiration dates regularly.
