Survival stockpile staples: Emergency foods for long-term storage

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During tough times, having a well-stocked pantry can be very comforting. Making sure your food supply is enough and will last a long time is key to being prepared. When choosing what to stock up on, it's important to pick foods that are nutritious, versatile, comforting and can last long in storage.

Here are some foods that not only stay good for a long time but also bring a sense of normalcy and comfort, even in difficult situations.

Beans and legumes

Beans and legumes are a great choice for long-term food storage. Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) are full of nutrients and can last over 30 years if kept in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. You can also store different types of beans, like pinto or red beans, in one-pound bags. Beans are cheap and a fantastic source of protein, making them a perfect budget-friendly option for long-term storage.

Whole, dried lentils are another excellent option. When stored in airtight containers, they can stay fresh and edible for up to seven years. Lentils are highly nutritious and versatile. They can add both substance and protein to salads, soups, stews and side dishes. Unlike other beans, dried lentils don't need to be pre-soaked, which means you'll need less water to prepare them — an important consideration when resources are scarce. (Related: Unlocking the mastery of bucket food storage: Essential for complete preparedness.)

Canned goods

The shelf life of store-bought canned goods varies based on their acidity. High-acid foods, such as those with citric acid, vinegar or tomato-based ingredients, usually last 12 to 18 months. But some high-acid canned fruits, like peaches, pears and pineapples, can last longer. For a healthier choice, select fruits canned in juice or water rather than syrup.

Low-acid foods, including meats (especially lean meat and turkey), poultry, soups and vegetables like corn, green beans, okra, peas and squash, have a shelf life of up to five years. These are great for long-term storage, especially when you use a system to plan, rotate and track expiration dates. Choose canned foods with minimal additives or preservatives for the best quality.

When home canning, pressure canning is the only safe method for low-acid foods like meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables, including tomatoes and tomato products. Follow the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Complete Guide to Home Canning.

Cocoa, coffee and tea

Stocking up on cocoa, instant coffee and tea can add variety to your drinks and boost morale. These beverages are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress and prevent chronic diseases. (Related Enjoy that cup of Joe: Here are some science-backed health benefits of CAFFEINE.)

Stock up on freeze-dried instant coffee which lasts a long time as long as it stays dry. You can extend the shelf life of tea and cocoa by using desiccant packets or oxygen absorbers and vacuum sealing them. This helps keep them fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you need a comforting drink. (Related: Why people love tea: A look at some herbal tea recipes for mild depression.)

Coconut oil

When properly stored, unrefined coconut oil can last three years or more, as long as it doesn't show signs of spoilage like a bad smell, discoloration or foul taste. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature and can handle high cooking temperatures, making it perfect for cooking over a fire in survival situations. It's also a great substitute for butter in baking and cooking, adding a healthy twist to your emergency meals.

Coconut oil isn’t just for cooking. It is a multi-purpose survival tool. It can also be used as a moisturizer for your skin and hair, making it a versatile addition to your emergency stockpile.

Hardtack

When made and stored correctly, hardtack can last for many years. Its long shelf life is due to its very low moisture content and the absence of ingredients that spoil easily. An excellent food for long-term storage, hardtack is easy to make and can be a reliable source of carbohydrates during emergencies. (Related: Prepper recipes: How to make hardtack, a long-lasting survival food.)

Honey

Pure raw honey without additives never expires and can last forever. Honey is rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Besides being a natural sweetener, honey can be used medicinally and as a skincare product. When buying honey, choose products that are labeled "raw" and "unfiltered."

Honey has many survival uses. It has been a trusted natural remedy for centuries due to its many beneficial properties. (Related: Honey: The ultimate survival food that doesn’t expire.)

Non-fat dry/powdered milk

Powdered milk can last up to 25 years and is a great source of nutrition. Choose non-fat varieties for a longer shelf life. Even if your family doesn’t drink milk, it's handy for cooking and can be used as a barter item.

Another great item to stock up on is non-dairy organic coconut milk powder. It is rich in electrolytes like calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese and potassium, and essential nutrients like iron, protein and healthy fats. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), the healthy fats in coconut milk, can help boost exercise endurance, maintain healthy fluid balance and support overall health.

Oats

When stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, rolled oats can remain fresh for up to 30 years. They are rich in dietary fiber, iron and thiamine, and are also affordable, making them a great option for long-term storage. Oats can be used in various recipes, from breakfast porridge to baking, and can add versatility to your emergency food supply.

Rice

Uncooked arborio and white rice are essential non-perishable foods. Arborio rice, which is used for risotto, is packed with carbohydrates and vitamins A and C. When stored in optimal conditions with oxygen absorbers and cooler temperatures, arborio rice can stay safe to eat for up to 10 years. Rice is versatile and can be a comforting addition to your emergency food supply, providing essential nutrients and lasting for years without spoiling.

Salt

Salt never expires, although it can absorb moisture over time. It's essential for cooking, seasoning and preserving raw foods. In a long-term emergency situation, salt becomes a valuable commodity and a crucial item for bartering. It's also necessary for animals and livestock, making it a versatile and indispensable mineral to stock up on.

Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar and white vinegar may have "best by" dates printed on their bottles, but they don't really expire. The dates simply suggest when these products might taste best. You can still use vinegar for cooking and cleaning past its "best by" date. Over time, its flavor and appearance may change slightly, but vinegar remains safe to use for a long time. (Related: Preparedness solutions: The many uses of VINEGAR beyond cooking.)

Effective food storage and preparation are vital aspects of emergency preparedness. Understanding proper storage techniques and heeding safety guidelines is essential. From rotating your food supply to selecting shelf-stable items that you and your family like to eat, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring you’re well-prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

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Watch the following video about 20 long-term survival foods you NEED to stockpile.

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