Life is unpredictable, and you never know when a natural disaster, power outage, or other emergency might leave you without access to food. That’s why it’s important to always have a stockpile of long lasting foods on hand. These are items that won’t spoil quickly and can be stored for months or even years, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you and your loved ones won’t go hungry when disaster strikes.
What are Long Lasting Foods?
Dry Goods
Dry goods are a key item to have in your pantry when you’re looking for foods that can last a long time. Examples of these foods include:
- Flour – All-purpose flour can last up to a year in an airtight container, while whole wheat flour can last up to six months.
- Rice – White rice can last up to five years, while brown rice can last up to six months.
- Beans – Dried beans have a long shelf life and can last up to two years or more.
- Pasta – Dried pasta can last up to two years if stored in an airtight container.
Canned Foods
Canned foods are another essential item to have in your stockpile. They last a long time and can provide you with much-needed nutrients in an emergency. Examples of canned foods that can last up to several years include:
- Vegetables – Canned vegetables can typically last up to two years.
- Fruits – Canned fruits can last up to two years.
- Meat and Fish – Canned meat and fish can last up to five years.
Dried and Jerky Meats
Dried and jerky meats are also ideal for long term food storage. They’re high in protein and can provide a good source of energy during an emergency. Examples of these foods include:
- Beef jerky – This can last up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place.
- Dried fish – Dried fish can last up to a year in an airtight container.
- Dried fruits – Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and bananas can last up to a year if stored properly.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are good long lasting foods to have on hand because they can be stored for long periods of time in a cool, dark place. Examples of these foods include:
- Potatoes – Potatoes can last up to five to eight months if stored in a cool, dark place.
- Carrots – Carrots can last up to four to six weeks if stored in a cool, dark place.
- Onions – Onions can last up to eight months if stored in a cool, dry place.
Concluding Thoughts on Long Lasting Foods
Now that you have a better idea of the types of long lasting foods you should stock up on, it’s important to keep them stored properly. Make sure you keep food in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Check expiration dates regularly and rotate your stock so that you’re always using the oldest items first. By following these tips, you can ensure that you and your family will be well-fed during any emergency situation.
FAQs about Long Lasting Foods
How long do long lasting foods last?
Long lasting foods can last anywhere from a few months to several years depending on the type of food and how it’s stored. Always check expiration dates and store food in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life.
What are the best long lasting foods to have in an emergency stockpile?
The best long lasting foods to have in an emergency stockpile include dried and canned goods, root vegetables, and dried and jerky meats.
Why is it important to have long lasting foods on hand?
Having a stockpile of long lasting foods on hand is important in case of an emergency. Natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies can leave you without access to food. By having long lasting foods on hand, you can ensure that you and your family won’t go hungry during these types of situations.
How should I store long lasting foods?
Long lasting foods should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Make sure to check expiration dates regularly and rotate your stock so that you’re always using the oldest items first.
Can long lasting foods be healthy?
Absolutely! Many long lasting foods like canned fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, and root vegetables are nutrient-dense and can provide a good source of vitamins and minerals. It’s important to read labels and choose options that are low in sodium and free of added sugars.
In conclusion, having a stockpile of long lasting foods on hand is an important aspect of emergency preparedness. By choosing the right types of long lasting foods and storing them correctly, you can ensure that you and your family will be well-fed during any emergency situation.
