Keith Jacobs
In times of uncertainty, it is wise to be prepared. That includes stocking up on food that can easily sustain us during hard times, or when natural disasters hit. By stockpiling certain food items, you can ensure that you and your family always have access to nutritious meals. However, it’s important to know which foods are best to store and how to store them in order to be truly prepared. Here is a list of 10 foods you need to stockpile now in order to ensure adequate meals for yourself and your family.
1. Pasta: It should come as no surprise that pasta is an essential food to store. This versatile food is an easy, filling meal that can be made into a variety of dishes. You can easily find a store-bought variety with long shelf-lives or dried pasta that can last up to three years if stored properly.
2. Rice: Rice is another great staple to have stored as it is a carbohydrate-rich food that is also filling. White rice has a shelf life of up to 10 years when stored properly while brown rice lasts up to 6 months in the refrigerator and years in the freezer.
3. Canned Beans: High in protein and fiber, canned beans are both nutritious and inexpensive. They have a long shelf-life, especially when stored in cool, dry conditions. Dried beans also make excellent staples for those who are looking for more economical options.
4. Canned Tuna: Canned tuna is a great source of protein and has a long shelf-life of up to 5 years when stored properly. It can easily be added to meals or be made into salads and sandwiches.
5. Canned Soups: Canned soups are an excellent option for those looking for quick, convenient meals in emergency situations. They can also provide much needed hydration and nutrition for those who are ill due to the high amount of sodium contained in each soup can.
6. Nuts: High in protein and healthy fats, nuts are an excellent snack option for those looking for a quick energy boost or a nutritional snack on the go. They typically last up to two years when stored correctly, making them a great item to keep in your pantry in case of emergency.
7. Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin E and magnesium. It has a long shelf-life of up to 2 years when stored correctly, making it an excellent option for longterm preparedness.
8. Oats: Oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates, containing plenty of dietary fiber and minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and iron. They typically have a shelf-life of up to one year when stored correctly.
9. Cereal: While it’s true that the shelf-life of cereal varies depending on the type (most cereals contain preservatives that extend their shelf-life), many cereals like bran flakes and granola bars last up to one year when stored correctly.
10. Powdered Milk: Powdered milk is a great source of calcium and other essential minerals, as well as protein, that can last for up to two years when stored correctly. It can also be used for baking, smoothies, and more!
By stocking up on these 10 essential food items, you can ensure that you’re prepared for any emergency situation that may arise. Be sure to do your research beforehand to determine which foods are best for your needs, and how to store them properly in order to maximize their shelf-life!
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