Best Survival Foods to Stockpile with Long Shelf Lives

Preparing for emergencies is on everyone's mind these days. We can all agree that having a stockpile of nutritious, long-lasting foods brings peace of mind when facing uncertainty.

The good news is that with some planning and forethought, you can build an emergency food supply to nourish your family in a crisis. In this article, you'll discover the essential items to stock up on now for nutrition and longevity when you need them most.

You'll learn the top recommended survival foods like canned goods, grains, and dried foods that have exceptional shelf lives. We'll cover supplementing with vitamins and treats for comfort along with best practices for maintenance. By the end, you'll have a checklist to build your preparedness stockpile with confidence.

Introduction to Best Survival Foods

When building an emergency food supply, it's important to focus on nutrient-dense foods with long shelf lives. The goal is to stock up on non-perishable items that will provide enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to sustain you and your family in a crisis scenario.

Canned goods, grains, and dehydrated ingredients are go-to choices, as they can last years when properly stored. You'll also want to include some comfort foods to boost morale. When selecting survival foods, prioritize those with multiple essential nutrients that don't require refrigeration.

Understanding the 30 Day Emergency Food Supply List

Creating a 30 day emergency food supply is a good preparedness goal. Take an inventory of what you currently have on hand and determine any gaps. Calculate the appropriate quantities needed to feed all members of your household for a month.

When putting together your supply list, focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable foods like:

Canned meat, beans, vegetables, fruits
Rice, pasta, oats
Honey, maple syrup
Dried herbs and spices
Powdered milk, eggs, butter
High-calorie comfort snacks

Also include a manual can opener, fuel for cooking, water, and any needed dietary supplements.

Rotate and replace items as you use them to ensure no foods expire before an emergency strikes.

Selecting Nutrient-Dense Non-Perishable Food for Emergency

When building your emergency food supply, prioritize ingredients that offer nutritional value, calories for energy, and longevity without refrigeration.

Great options include:

Canned meat and beans for protein
Whole grains like rice, quinoa, oats for carbs
Canned or jarred fruits and veggies for vitamins
Honey, maple syrup, and nut butters for calories
Powdered milk, eggs, and butter for extra nutrients
Broths and soups to increase flavor

Focus on low-sodium varieties with minimal added sugars when possible. Look for whole food options rather than highly processed convenience foods.

Pair your emergency food supply with a water filtration system and any needed medications, dietary supplements, or allergy-friendly swaps.

What foods should I stockpile for survival?

When building your emergency food supply, focus on shelf-stable items that don't require refrigeration and have a long shelf life. Some top foods to stockpile include:

Canned goods: Canned meats, vegetables, fruits, and soups are nutritious and convenient options that can last 2-5 years when properly stored. Choose low-sodium varieties when possible.
Grains: Whole grains like rice, pasta, oats, and quinoa are filling and pack well. Opt for whole grain pastas and brown rice over refined white varieties.
Dried beans and lentils: These are excellent sources of plant-based protein. Stock up on versatile staples like black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and green or red lentils.
Nuts and nut butters: High in protein and healthy fats. Stash some peanut butter and other nut butters, along with raw almonds, walnuts, etc.
Dried fruit: Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, apricots and apple rings provide a tasty vitamin boost. Prioritize freeze-dried for maximum nutrition.
Powdered milk: Can be reconstituted and keeps your dairy intake up when fresh milk is in short supply. Useful for cooking and baking too.
Honey: Natural antibacterial and antioxidant properties give honey extremely long shelf life. A versatile sweetener.
Herbs, spices, salt: Essential for making basic ingredients like beans, rice, pasta and canned goods flavorful and enjoyable after long-term storage.

When stockpiling these goods, be diligent about checking expiration dates, sealing containers properly and storing items in a cool, dark space to maximize freshness. Rotate stock as you use items, replacing them with new purchases so nothing expires before you need it.

What are the top 10 survival foods?

When building your emergency food supply, focus on nutrient-dense foods with long shelf lives. Here are 10 of the best survival foods to stockpile:

Peanut butter - High in protein, fats, and calories. Choose natural peanut butter without hydrogenated oils. Stays fresh for 3-4 months unopened.
Whole wheat crackers - Provides carbohydrates and fiber. Look for low/no sodium options. Stays fresh for 2-3 months in airtight container.
Nuts and trail mixes - Great source of protein, fats, and nutrients. Go for unsalted nuts. Properly stored, stays fresh for up to 9 months.
Cereal - Opt for whole grain cereals high in fiber. Check expiration date and store in airtight containers. Stays fresh for 1-2 months.
Granola and protein bars - Provides carbohydrates, protein, and nutrients. Choose bars with limited ingredients and no hydrogenated oils. Store properly and stays fresh for 9-12 months.
Dried fruits - Excellent source of antioxidants and nutrients. Look for unsweetened varieties without preservatives like sulfites. Stays fresh up to 12 months.
Canned meats - Canned tuna, salmon, chicken and turkey provide protein. Choose low-sodium options, if available. Unopened, stays fresh 2-5 years.
Canned vegetables - Nutrient-rich addition to any emergency pantry. Select low-sodium vegetables with limited added sugars or preservatives. Stays fresh 2-5 years when unopened.
Beans and legumes - Excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients. Choose dried or low-sodium canned varieties. Stays fresh 1-2 years when properly stored.
Rice and pasta - Provides carbohydrates, calories, and some fiber. Opt for whole grain/high fiber varieties. When properly stored, stays fresh for 1-2 years.

What foods are good for long term storage survival?

When stockpiling food for emergency preparedness, focusing on shelf-stable items with long expiration dates is key. Some of the best survival foods for long term storage include:

Canned meats like tuna, chicken, salmon, and spam can last 2-5 years when properly stored. Canned meats are packed with protein and nutrients. Opt for low-sodium versions when possible.
Rice can be stored for up to 30 years if kept cool, dry, and pest-free. Brown rice has more nutrients than white rice. Store rice in airtight containers or mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to maximize shelf life.
Beans also have a shelf life of up to 30 years when properly packaged and stored. Beans are high in fiber, protein, and nutrients. Varieties like kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, etc. can add variety to meals.
Pasta can last 1-2 years on the shelf. Opt for whole grain or protein-enriched varieties. Combine with canned sauces for easy, filling meals.
Oats are nutrient-dense and have a shelf life of 1-2 years when stored properly. Combine oats with dried fruits, honey, nuts, or spices to make energy-boosting oatmeal.
Honey is one of the few foods that never spoils. The high sugar concentration prevents microbial growth. Honey will crystallize over time but is still perfectly safe to eat.

Storing a combination of canned goods, grains, legumes, cereals, and more creates diversity and nutrition. Check expiration dates, store items properly, and rotate stock to maximize freshness and shelf life.

What food to stockpile for 2023?

With potential food shortages on the horizon in 2023, it's important to stock up on non-perishable items that have a long shelf life. Some top foods to prioritize storing include:

Canned goods like vegetables, beans, soup, and meat. Opt for low-sodium versions when possible.
Whole grains such as rice, pasta, oats, and quinoa. These have longevity when properly stored.
Shelf-stable protein sources like canned tuna, salmon, chicken, peanut butter, and protein powders.
Dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and trail mixes which provide nutrients.
Comfort foods like coffee, tea, granola bars, crackers, and powdered milk. These boost morale.
Staple ingredients like oil, vinegar, soy sauce, salt, spices, flour, baking soda.
Water and water filtration systems in case of shortages.

When building your stockpile, focus on nutrient-dense non-perishables you already eat rather than unfamiliar specialty items. Check expiration dates, store items properly, and rotate as you use them. With some planning now, you can ensure access to essential foods next year.

The Emergency Pantry Essentials

Keep your pantry stocked with canned proteins, fruits, vegetables and sauces that store safely at room temperature for years when properly handled. Having these non-perishable foods on hand ensures you have nourishing options if stores close or power outages occur.

Best Tasting Prepper Food: Canned Varieties

Canned beans like pinto, black, and garbanzo beans are packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients. They make excellent additions to soups, stews, chilis, and rice or pasta dishes. Opt for low-sodium versions whenever possible and give them a rinse before use to reduce salt content. Other canned proteins like tuna, salmon, chicken, and spam also store well.

Fruits packed in their own juices or water tend to maintain more flavor and nutrition than those heavy or light syrups. Go for canned varieties of peaches, pears, pineapple, applesauce, and more. Mix with plain yogurt for a simple dessert.

When it comes to vegetables, choose canned tomatoes, pumpkin, carrots, peas, corn, and green beans. Rinse sodium-heavy veggies before adding to recipes.

Canned Soups & Sauces: Flavorful and Convenient

Condensed and ready-to-eat soups make for quick meals combined with canned or dry veggies and proteins. Tomato sauce, pasta sauce, and gravies conveniently impart savory, comforting flavors. Other handy canned sauce options include enchilada sauce, Alfredo, and coconut milk for curries. When power is limited, these items make cooking easier.

Having a diverse selection of canned goods means you can throw together all kinds of one-pot meals. Chili, stew, soup, casseroles, pasta bakes, and more are possible even during an emergency. Stock up on nutritious essentials with long shelf lives for reliable backup meals. Check expiration dates and create a rotation system to keep cans fresh.

Grains with Longevity: Rice, Pasta, and More

Rice, oats, pasta, flour and more offer ample carbs when stored properly in airtight containers. Consider whole grain options for better nutrition.

Properly Stored Flour and Pasta

White rice can be stored for up to 30 years if kept dry and away from contaminants. Brown rice has more nutrients but doesn't last as long. Here are some tips for proper storage:

Keep rice in airtight containers like food-grade plastic buckets or mylar bags. This prevents moisture and insects from getting in.
Use oxygen absorbers to help remove oxygen from the containers. Oxygen causes food spoilage.
Store rice in a cool, dark place like a basement or cellar. Heat and light can shorten shelf life.
White rice generally stores longer than brown due to the oils in brown rice going rancid over time.

The same storage methods work for items like pasta, oats, dried beans, and flour. When stored properly, flour and pasta can last 8-10 years. Though refrigeration can extend life, the cold temperature can make some foods like pasta brittle.

Oats: A Versatile and Long-Lasting Staple

Rolled and steel-cut oats have a shelf life of 8-10 years when stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. The oils in oats resist rancidity better than other grains. Besides oatmeal, oats can be used to make granola bars, cookies, muffins, and more, adding variety to your stockpile. Choose regular oats rather than quick or instant oats, which won't keep as long. Restock every 2-3 years to ensure freshness and nutrition.

Dairy and Egg Substitutes for Long-Term Storage

Stock up on powdered varieties of milk and egg substitutes which deliver key nutrients and stay fresh at room temp for 1-2 years.

Powdered Milk: A Convenient Source of Calcium

Powdered milk is a handy staple for your emergency food pantry. When stored properly in a cool, dark place, nonfat dry milk can last 2-10 years. Simply reconstitute with water when ready to use for drinking, cooking, or baking. Powdered milk contains calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Opt for nonfat varieties to avoid spoilage. Be sure to check expiration dates prior to stockpiling.

When buying powdered milk focus on shelf life. Once opened, transfer contents to an airtight container to maintain freshness. To reconstitute, use a ratio of 1 cup powdered milk to 1 quart cold water. Mix or whisk together and chill before use. Powdered milk lacks creaminess but provides essential nutrients.

Egg Alternatives: Powdered Eggs for Protein

Stock your emergency food supply with dried egg powder or crystals. Unopened, powdered whole eggs stay fresh for 2-10 years when stored properly. To use, beat the dried egg powder with water per package instructions. Then cook scrambled eggs as usual or substitute in baking recipes.

Powdered eggs offer an abundant protein source with reduced risk of spoilage compared to fresh eggs. Focus on quality brands with longer shelf lives. Once opened, keep contents in an airtight, moisture-free container. Check production dates to ensure freshness. Properly stored dried egg substitutes provide nutrition when fresh eggs are in short supply.

Creating and Storing an Emergency Water Supply

Store a minimum 2-week supply of water for your household and have purification methods ready in case of contamination.

Bottled Water Stockpile

Stockpiling commercially bottled water is a convenient way to store clean drinking water. Aim to set aside at least one gallon per person per day. Store the bottled water in a cool, dark place and check expiration dates periodically to ensure freshness. Rotate your stock by using the older bottles first. You can also fill clean plastic containers, jugs, and bottles with tap water to add to your stockpile. Make sure containers have tight sealing lids. Label each container with the date filled.

Water Filtration and Purification Methods

In addition to stockpiling water, it's wise to have backup water purification plans in place. Store water filtration devices like Lifestraws or Sawyer filters so you can filter questionable water from lakes, streams, etc. Also keep bleach, iodine tablets, water purification drops on hand to disinfect water. Make sure to follow instructions carefully when using chemical disinfection methods. Consider setting up rainwater collection barrels to harvest rainwater. Boiling is also an effective emergency purification method.

Having both stored water and purification methods helps ensure your household will have safe drinking water if the taps run dry during a disaster. Check supplies every 6 months and replace anything expired or damaged. With the best survival foods to stockpile and an ample water supply, your family will be better prepared come what may.

Nutritional Supplements and Flavor Enhancers

Boost nutrition and add flavor to meals with a variety of shelf-stable supplements, dried herbs and spices.

Essential Vitamins to Complement Your Food Stockpile

A daily vitamin regimen helps fill any nutritional gaps. Consider stockpiling key supplements like:

Multivitamins provide a full spectrum of micronutrients. Look for options formulated for emergency preparedness with extended shelf lives.
Vitamin C boosts immunity. The powdered form is very stable.
Calcium supports bone health if dairy intake is reduced.
Iron prevents anemia which can be triggered by stress or low intake of meat.

Rotate your stash and watch expiration dates. Improperly stored vitamins lose potency over time.

Herbs and Spices: The Key to Best Tasting Prepper Food

Dried herbs significantly extend shelf life compared to fresh options. Stock up on versatile seasonings like:

Salt and pepper for enhancing flavor.
Oregano, basil, cumin, and chili powder for adding zest to beans, soups, grains.
Cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, ginger for baked goods.

Pro tip: buy a variety of pre-mixed spice blends tailored for dishes like chili, taco seasoning, jerk chicken, etc. These blends eliminate the need to buy individual spices.

When possible, choose low-sodium herbs to support heart health. Vacuum sealing containers prevents moisture exposure which can cause caking. With a well-stocked spice rack, you can transform boring ingredients into delicious meals.

The Role of Comfort Foods in a Survival Situation

Include some favorites like chocolate, coffee, tea and snacks to lift moods and reduce stress in trying times.

Stockpiling Treats for Morale

Having some comfort foods on hand can help improve morale in stressful situations. Consider stockpiling individually-wrapped candies, chocolate bars, or other treats that can last over a year when properly stored. A small daily treat can lift spirits when times are difficult.

Focus on shelf-stable options that satisfy sweet cravings. Hard candies, chocolate, and even snack cakes can last well over a year if kept cool, dry, and sealed from air exposure. Rotate your stock every 6-12 months to ensure freshness.

Coffee and Tea: Essential for Comfort and Normalcy

Caffeinated and herbal beverages alike provide comfort along with hydration. Stock up on instant coffee, tea bags, hot cocoa mixes, and powdered creamers or milk. These pantry staples are compact, shelf-stable, and help maintain a sense of normalcy.

If possible, store coffee beans or loose tea to grind or brew fresh. But instant options are convenient if water or power is limited. Having the ability to prepare a hot, comforting beverage can make difficult days more bearable.

Preparing for Pet and Livestock Emergencies

Don't overlook the needs of pets and livestock when prepping your emergency reserves. Having supplies on hand for them ensures their health and wellbeing if a disaster strikes.

Pet Food Stockpile Checklist

When building your stockpile, set aside extra pet food beyond what you need for day-to-day use. This provides a buffer in case you cannot restock for a period of time.

Have at least a 2 week supply of standard pet food on hand. Calculate the amount needed based on your pet's size and daily portion recommendations.
For pets with special dietary needs due to health conditions, keep extra supplies of those specialty formulas in your stockpile.
Store an assortment of canned and dry foods. Canned varieties will be needed if you lose access to clean water for mixing dry food.
Check expiration dates and follow first-in-first-out practices when using up supply. Replace food before it expires.
Keep food in airtight, waterproof containers to prevent spoilage or contamination.

Animal Health Supplies for Long-Term Storage

In addition to food, keep the following supplies on hand for at least 2 weeks' worth of usage:

Medications your pet needs for chronic conditions
Bandages and wound care supplies
Anti-bacterial ointments and disinfectants
Supplements like probiotics and vitamins
Items needed for administering medications like syringes and pill pockets

Tailor your stockpile toward your animals' specific needs. Consult your veterinarian if unsure what items and quantities make sense for emergency preparedness. Properly store all medications and supplies according to package instructions to ensure longevity.

Maintaining and Managing Your Food Stockpile

Implementing a system to regularly cycle and replenish items in your food stockpile is key to ensuring you have a reliable emergency food supply. Here are some tips:

Food Stockpile Checklist and Expiration Tracking

Label all containers in your stockpile with purchase dates
Set reminders on your calendar to check dates and use items before they expire
Create a checklist to note when items need to be replenished
Track expiration dates in a spreadsheet to easily see when foods need to be cycled out

Best Practices to Keep Foods Fresh and Safe During a Power Outage

Store emergency food in waterproof, airtight containers
Keep containers in the coolest, darkest places in your home
Avoid areas that get hot or have temperature fluctuations
Use coolers with ice packs to keep refrigerated items cold
Monitor coolers to ensure proper temperature
Discard perishable items if temperatures rise above 40°F for over 2 hours

Following these best practices will help you maintain a well-managed, reliable stockpile of survival foods with long shelf lives.