There is often much confusion when it comes to storing food for an emergency. Many preppers are unaware of the difference between freeze dried foods and dehydrated foods. They are unsure if they should stock up on protein bars and meals ready-to-eat (MRE) or just get canned food from the supermarket.
This article will give you a list of 10 food staples to get you started on your storage endeavor. These are not hard to follow but they’ll be helpful. Once you have some food supplies stored away, your confidence will increase. You’ll gain experience and know which foods to purchase and how to store them.
Brown rice & pasta
Carbohydrates are extremely important to provide you with fuel and keep you feeling full. Brown rice has more fiber and will leave you satiated for longer. Pasta is lightweight and can be easily prepared with just boiling water. If you need to evacuate suddenly, grabbing a bag of rice and pasta will give you enough food for a few days.
Oatmeal
This is another good food to store. It lasts a long time and you can eat it for breakfast every day. All you need is hot water to prepare oatmeal. It’s light and can be easily carried if you’re on foot.
Sardines, salmon, and tuna
These foods are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They’re nutritious and come in small, portable cans. All you need to do is cook some rice and open up a can of tuna and you’re good to go for a meal or two.
Raisins
Raisins are a good source of energy because they’re rich in sugar and will perk you up. Toss a few into your oatmeal and you’ll have a tasty breakfast. They last a long time, too.
Ramen noodles
While ramen noodles are far from the highest quality, they’re easy to prepare and will fill you up. They only require boiling water and a few minutes to prepare. They also last a long time and are light enough to pack and carry in your bug out bag if you need to evacuate.
Canned beans
Beans are an excellent source of protein. If you don’t have access to meat, beans will provide you with the protein you need. Open up a can, mix some beans in with your rice, and you’ll have a good mix of protein and carbs. Kidney beans and black beans are fantastic sources of protein.
Sugar, spices, and salt
Make sure you store these two. Any meal can be made tastier by stirring in some spices. Is your tuna too bland? Add a dash of black pepper and some turmeric and your tuna will taste great. The same applies to salt and sugar. These are key items that you MUST have.
Mixed greens
While you may not have access to fresh vegetables, you can always turn to canned vegetables for some of the same benefits. The extra fiber and micronutrients will do your body good.
Cocoa, coffee, or tea
Many people overlook this. On nights when you’re cold and feeling down, making a cup of hot chocolate will really help to lift your spirits. Store coffee or tea if you prefer these. (Here’s is a point where you’ll realize the importance of storing sugar among your food supplies.)
Spam
Often scorned as low-quality meat, during times of crisis, being able to fry and eat slices of this canned meat will be a luxury. Add a few slices to your rice and mixed greens and you have a well-rounded meal of proteins, fats, and carbs.
List and Rotate
Remember to list all the foods you’ve stored and write down their expiration dates. This will allow you to consume what’s about to expire and you can replenish your stores in a timely manner. If you do not keep records, keeping track of all the food will be a nightmare. Remember to store the oldest food in front and the newer supplies at the back.
Keep Away From Sunlight
Last but not least, keep your food supplies in a clean and dry place away from sunlight or heat. This will ensure that your foods last as long as possible.
Use this list of tips as a guide to planning. Start small and slowly build up your stockpile of food. It may seem like a Herculean task at first, but if you approach it in a gradual and sensible manner, you’ll achieve your goal in no time at all.