Dried Foods for Survival: Preparation Tips

Preparing for emergency situations is crucial, and most would agree that having the right foods stockpiled can make or break your survival plan.

This comprehensive guide on dried foods reveals the most efficient options to include, along with proven techniques for storage, prep, and nutrition to get the most out of your stockpile when you need it most.

You'll discover the best dried foods to prioritize, how to store them for maximum shelf life, efficient rehydration methods, nutritional considerations to supplement your intake, and more.

Introduction to Dried Foods for Survival

Dried foods play a critical role in building an emergency food supply. When disaster strikes, having a reliable stockpile of non-perishable, nutrient-dense foods can mean the difference between survival and hardship.

Understanding the Role of Dried Foods in an Emergency Food Supply

Dried foods are lightweight, compact, and able to be stored for years without refrigeration. This makes them ideal for including in survival kits and bug out bags. Common dried foods like beans, rice, pasta, potatoes, and fruit contain carbohydrates for energy as well as protein, vitamins, and minerals.

When fresh foods are scarce, relying on dried goods avoids malnutrition or starvation. They can be rehydrated with water when needed for meals. With the proper storage techniques, dried foods support self-reliance in prolonged emergencies.

Advantages of Bulk Dried Foods for Long-Term Survival

Purchasing bulk pallets or buckets of dried foods builds a substantial reserve to feed a family or community during a crisis. Buying in bulk means obtaining large quantities of calories and nutrients at a lower cost per serving compared to buying small packages.

Having a deep pantry of bulk dried goods provides insurance against inflation or food shortages. Critical survival foods like grains, beans, milk powder, and freeze-dried produce store safely for decades in oxygen-free Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.

Selecting the Best Dried Foods for Survival Kits

When assembling a survival kit for evacuation or sheltering-in-place, key criteria for choosing dried foods includes nutritional density, shelf life, and ease of preparation.

Prioritize compact, calorie-rich dried foods like nuts, pemmican, and jerky. Carbohydrate sources such as hardtack, crackers, and granola bars provide quick energy. Consider adding portable dried fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals.

Choose dried foods with flexible preparation methods, including no-cook options. Rely on familiar ingredients to reduce decision fatigue in high-stress scenarios. Conduct practice runs to identify optimal foods for survival needs.

What foods should I stockpile for survival?

When building an emergency food supply, focus on nutrient-dense non-perishable foods that will provide sustenance in a crisis scenario. Here are some of the best options to stockpile:

Canned and Dried Goods

Canned meats like tuna, chicken, salmon, and beef stew are packed with protein to support energy levels. Choose low-sodium options when possible.
Canned beans and legumes provide fiber, protein, and complex carbs. Items like chickpeas, black beans, and lentils store well.
Canned fruits and vegetables like carrots, peas, peaches, and pineapple offer key micronutrients. Select items packed in juice rather than syrup.
Dried grains like rice, quinoa, oats, and pasta cook up easily and supply carbohydrates for fuel. Opt for whole grains when possible.

Shelf-Stable Dairy

Powdered milk or shelf-stable UHT milk boxes provide calcium and vitamin D when fresh milk is unavailable.
Dried cheese powder adds savory flavor, protein, and fat.

Other Essentials

Honey is calorie-dense and won't spoil. It's a natural sweetener for teas, oats, etc.
Vegetable oils like olive and coconut oil supply beneficial fats for energy and health.
Nuts and trail mixes provide protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Prioritize vacuum-sealed items.

When building your stockpile, focus on nutrient diversity and calories. Favor flexible ingredients you can prepare in various dishes. Integrate some comfort foods for morale. Store items properly and rotate as needed. With the right selection of non-perishable foods, you can sustain yourself in an emergency until utilities are restored.

What are the dry food items for emergency?

Here are some of the best dried and non-perishable foods to keep in your pantry for emergency preparedness:

Peanut butter - High in protein and fats, peanut butter is nutritious and filling. Opt for natural peanut butter without hydrogenated oils.
Whole wheat crackers - Pair crackers with peanut butter for a balanced snack. Look for whole grain crackers without hydrogenated oils.
Nuts and trail mixes - High in healthy fats and protein. Stash various nuts and seeds, along with dried fruits for homemade trail mix.
Cereal - Choose whole grain cereals and granolas, then store in airtight containers.
Granola and protein bars - Great for quick, on-the-go calories and nutrition. Seek bars with quality ingredients.
Dried fruits - Dried apricots, cranberries, raisins, etc. provide a sweet treat, fiber, and antioxidants. No need to refrigerate.
Canned fish - Canned tuna, salmon, sardines, etc. are excellent sources of protein to stock up on. Get packs with pull tab lids.
Canned vegetables - Keep an assortment of canned veggies like carrots, peas, green beans on hand for meals and nutrition. Seek low-sodium options.

Focus on whole, minimally processes real foods over refined and artificial foods in your emergency supply. Dried goods, canned fish and veggies, nuts, and whole grain crackers offer balanced nutrition to rely on if the power goes out.

What dry foods are good for long-term storage?

Rice, beans, pasta, and cereals are excellent options for long-term food storage. Here are some tips:

White rice can be stored for up to 30 years if properly packaged and stored in a cool, dark place. Brown rice has a shorter shelf life of only 6 months.
Dried beans like pinto, black, kidney, garbanzo, and lentils can last up to 30 years when stored in airtight containers. Canned beans last around 5 years.
Pasta and pasta mixes can last up to 30 years if kept dry and sealed. Opt for whole grain pasta for more nutrients.
Ready-to-eat cereals and instant oatmeal have a shelf life of 6-12 months when properly stored. Granola bars last about 18 months.
Dried fruits like apples, apricots, cranberries, and raisins are great for adding vitamins. They'll last up to 30 years if kept cool and dry.
Packaged convenience mixes for rice pilafs, pasta sides, and soups are handy for quick meals. Their shelf life is about 6-12 months.

Focus on nutritious, non-perishable foods that require minimal preparation. Having a variety helps round out your diet. Check expiration dates and follow storage instructions to maximize freshness. Rotate your stock to use older items first.

What is the most efficient survival food?

When it comes to survival food, efficiency is key. You need foods that are nutritious, long-lasting, easy to store, and simple to prepare when resources are limited. Some of the most efficient survival foods are:

Dehydrated Fruits and Vegetables

Dehydrated fruits and vegetables check all the boxes for an efficient survival food.

Good Nutritional Value: Dehydrating removes moisture while preserving most vitamins, minerals and fiber. This makes dehydrated produce an excellent source of essential nutrients when fresh options are unavailable.

Long Shelf Life: Properly stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, dehydrated fruits and vegetables can last for years or even decades. This makes them perfect for your emergency food supply.

Lightweight and Compact: Dehydrated foods take up much less space because the moisture has been removed. And they're lightweight, making them easy to transport if you need to bug out.

Easy to Prepare: Dehydrated ingredients just need water for rehydration before eating or adding to recipes. All you need is hot water and 20-30 minutes to bring them back to life.

Some great options are apples, bananas, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, mushrooms, onions, zucchini, and more. A variety of dehydrated produce ensures nutrients and flavor.

Canned Meat, Fish, Beans and Soups

Canned protein sources and meals are survival food staples for good reason:

Nutritious: Canned meats like chicken, tuna, salmon, and beef are excellent sources of protein and nutrients your body needs. Beans provide fiber, protein and complex carbs.

Long Shelf Life: When stored properly in a cool, dry place, commercially canned foods can last 2-5 years.

No Refrigeration Required: The canning process allows canned goods to be shelf-stable without refrigeration, making storage simple.

Ready to Eat: Just open the can when you need a quick, hearty meal. Add canned soup and beans to stretch other ingredients into more servings.

Portable: Canned foods are durable, non-perishable, and suitable for carrying in bug out bags.

Prioritize meats, beans, soups and stews high in protein, nutrients, and calories. Build meals by combining with other survival foods.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like wheat berries, quinoa, rolled oats, brown rice, and barley make efficient survival foods because they:

Provide Energy: Complex carbs in whole grains break down slowly for lasting energy. High fiber keeps you feeling full.

Pack Nutrients: Whole grains supply protein, iron, B vitamins, fiber and other beneficial nutrients.

Last for Years: Properly stored grains can remain edible for a decade or much longer. White rice stores the longest.

Cook With Limited Fuel: Grains can be cooked using minimal water and fuel in a crisis situation.

Stretch Meals: Cooked grains serve as excellent meal stretchers to make canned or dehydrated ingredients go further.

Store whole grains so they stay cool, dry and pest-free. Combine with other survival foods using basic preparation methods when fresh food isn't an option.

Storing and Organizing Your Bulk Dried Food Survival Stockpile

Proper storage is critical for preserving dried foods and ensuring they last as long as possible. When storing bulk quantities of dried goods for emergency preparedness, optimize conditions to prevent spoilage.

Optimizing Storage Conditions for Bulk Dried Foods

When storing large amounts of dried foods:

Keep in a cool, dark, and dry location. Temperature and light can accelerate spoilage. Aim for around 60-70°F.
Use food-grade plastic bins or Mylar bags to protect against moisture and pests. Oxygen absorbers also help prevent oxidation.
Shelving, racks, or storage containers should be clean, sturdy, and designed for food storage use.
Inspect regularly for signs of insects, rodents, or moisture damage. Address any issues immediately.
Consider temperature monitoring devices and silica gel desiccant packs for very large stockpiles.

Effective Labeling and Inventory Management

To track your dried food reserves:

Clearly label containers with contents and pack date for easy identification and rotation.
Maintain detailed inventory lists noting quantities, locations, and expiration dates. Update after access and replenishment.
Set reminder alerts for inspection and rotation to ensure first-in-first-out stock rotation.
Take periodic inventories and replace items as needed before they expire. Planning proper rotation maintains freshness.

With the right storage methods and organization system, bulk dried foods can reliably serve as the foundation of your emergency food supply for years.

Preparing and Utilizing Dried Foods for Survival Recipes

Dried foods are an essential component of any emergency food supply. When stored properly, they can last for years, providing nutritious options when fresh foods are unavailable. However, dried foods require rehydration before eating. This section shares tips on restoration methods and simple recipe ideas to make the most of your dried food stash.

Techniques for Rehydrating Dried Foods Efficiently

When rehydrating dried foods, the goal is to restore moisture while maintaining nutrients. Here are effective techniques:

Use hot (not boiling) water or broth for rehydration. This speeds up the process compared to cold water.
Allow enough time for thorough rehydration. Complex foods like beans can take a few hours.
Add seasonings like salt, herbs, and bouillon for flavor.
After rehydrating, simmer beans, grains, and meat for improved texture.

Soak fruits and vegetables in water for 15-30 minutes before cooking to plump up. Then use in survival recipes like stews, trail mixes, or eaten plain.

Crafting Nutritious and Flavorful Survival Recipes with Dried Foods

Dried foods offer versatility in survival cooking. Take advantage by making balanced meals:

Hearty Dried Bean and Rice Skillet

1 cup dried pinto beans, rehydrated
1 cup dried rice
Dried onion flakes
Dried mixed vegetables
Bouillon powder or dried broth
Water
Salt and pepper

Rehydrate beans. Cook rice according to package instructions in broth. Sauté vegetables in a skillet until tender. Add beans, rice, seasonings and extra broth. Simmer until heated through.

Sweet and Savory Trail Mix

Dried cranberries
Dried apricots, chopped
Roasted dried chickpeas
Dried coconut flakes
Roasted nuts
Dark chocolate chips

Mix together in a large bowl. Portion into bags to grab for quick energy or snacks.

Get creative with ingredients on hand. Having versatile items like beans, rice, veggies, and seasonings allows endless drying food recipes for survival and beyond.

The Nutritional Importance of Dried Foods in a Survival Diet

A well-rounded stockpile of dried foods can provide the calories, macronutrients, vitamins and minerals needed to maintain health in a survival situation. When building an emergency food supply, it's important to understand the nutritional properties of various dried foods to create a balanced diet.

Ensuring a Balanced Intake of Macronutrients from Dried Foods

Macronutrients provide the energy and building blocks our bodies need. Getting enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates from dried foods is essential.

Proteins - Dried beans, lentils, jerky, milk powder, and eggs are high-protein dried foods. Aim for 0.5-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily.
Fats - Nuts, seeds, peanut butter, and coconut contain healthy fats for energy and nutrient absorption. 20-35% of calories from fats is recommended.
Carbohydrates - Grains like rice, pasta, oats, etc. offer complex carbs. Limit simple carbs from sugar, honey, etc. Carbs should provide 45-65% of calories.

Following macronutrient guidelines ensures you get adequate nutrition from dried foods when fresh options are limited.

Securing Essential Micronutrients through Dried Foods

Micronutrients like vitamins and minerals are vital for health even though they're needed in smaller amounts. Stock up on:

Fruits and Vegetables - Dried fruits, veggies, potato flakes provide vitamins A, C, B-vitamins, potassium, etc.
Spices and Herbs - Salt, garlic, cinnamon, turmeric supply key minerals.
Fortified Foods - Choose cereals, milk, meals with added vitamins and minerals.

Pairing dried macronutrient-dense foods with micronutrient-rich options creates nutritionally complete survival meals. Follow daily recommended intakes for micronutrients.

With some planning, dried foods can supply the balanced nutrition you need to stay healthy when relying on your emergency stockpile. Focus on variety, moderation, and meeting all macro and micronutrient needs.

Comprehensive Guide to Freeze-Dried Food in Your Survival Gear

Freeze-dried food can be a crucial part of an emergency food supply. When properly stored, freeze-dried foods can last for decades, making them an ideal long-term storage option. Additionally, their low moisture content means they take up less space and weigh less than other preservation methods. This makes them easy to transport and integrate into bug out bags or other survival gear.

Advantages of Freeze-Dried Food in Emergency Situations

Freeze-dried foods offer several key benefits in emergency and survival situations:

Extended shelf life: Properly packaged freeze-dried foods can last 25-30 years. This makes them perfect for long-term emergency storage.
Lightweight: The removal of water content makes these foods very lightweight compared to traditional canned or preserved options. Easy to carry or transport.
Space-saving: Up to 90% of the water is removed during freeze-drying. Taking up far less space compared to traditional emergency food options.
Easy preparation: Only require the addition of water for rehydration. This allows for quick, convenient meals with minimal resources or equipment.
Nutrient retention: Most vitamins and nutrients are retained through the gentle freeze-drying process. Providing nourishing, energizing meals.

Incorporating Freeze-Dried Meals into Your Survival Food Plan

To effectively utilize freeze-dried foods:

Store in cool, dark spaces to maximize shelf life. Consider vacuum-sealed bags or containers.
Rotate stock to use older packages first. Check expiration dates regularly.
Have needed preparation supplies like water, fuel source for boiling, rehydration containers.
Pair with other survival food items to create balanced, complete meals. Good options include pemmican, jerky, nuts, dried fruits.
Practice preparation beforehand to identify best recipes, methods, needed cookware.

With their extreme shelf life and light weight, freeze-dried meals are a versatile, nutritious component for any emergency food supply or survival situation. Proper storage and preparation is key to harnessing their unique advantages.

Essential Survival Gear: Integrating MREs and Dried Food Options

MREs (Meal, Ready-to-Eat) are an important component of a comprehensive survival food strategy. When combined with dried foods, MREs can provide calories, nutrients, and variety to sustain you in an emergency.

The Role of MRE Meals in a Survival Food Stockpile

MREs have several advantages that make them useful for survival planning:

Long shelf life - MREs are designed to last for years when stored properly, making them a reliable emergency food option.
Portability - MREs come in lightweight, compact packages that are easy to transport and require no refrigeration. This makes them ideal for bug out bags and emergency kits.
Balanced nutrition - MREs provide a complete meal with a balance of protein, carbs, and other nutrients to support health. This balanced nutrition helps prevent malnutrition.
Taste and variety - Modern MREs have improved tastes and offer more menu options like chili, pasta, and chicken dishes. This variety keeps taste fatigue at bay.

However, MREs lack bulk calories and some micronutrients found in fresh foods. Relying solely on MREs can lead to menu fatigue and nutritional deficits over time. This makes combining MREs with dried foods important.

Selecting MREs and Dried Foods for a Diverse Emergency Food Supply

When building your stockpile, it's important to choose MREs and dried foods that complement each other to create a nutritious and varied supply. Here are some tips:

Choose MREs with the highest calories to pack the most energy into your supply. Prioritize chicken, chili, pasta, or rice dishes over lower-calorie sides.
Select dried goods like beans, lentils, grains, and textured vegetable protein (TVP) to provide fiber, protein, and carbohydrates. These will create a nutritional foundation.
Incorporate some freeze-dried or dehydrated fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats. Though more expensive, they add key nutrients and flavor.
Calculate daily caloric needs and stock a 30-90 day supply of both MREs and dried goods per person. Split calories 50/50 between MREs and dried foods.

Pairing MREs with dried goods creates an emergency food stockpile that is shelf-stable, portable, nutritionally balanced, and varied for morale. Follow these tips to build a sufficient supply.

Augason Farms and Other Brands: Quality Dried Foods for Your Survival Kit

When building an emergency food supply, it's important to choose reputable brands that offer high-quality dried foods. Industry leaders like Augason Farms have earned the trust of preppers due to their commitment to quality control and food safety.

Evaluating the Best Brands for Dried Survival Foods

Some key factors to evaluate when selecting a brand for your dried survival foods include:

Manufacturing standards: Brands should follow strict quality control protocols and test for pathogens, ingredients, nutritional value, and shelf life. Augason Farms has an on-site quality control lab and tests samples from every production run.
Ingredient sourcing: Reputable brands source from known suppliers and regions. Augason Farms sources ingredients like rice and beans from specific regions renowned for those crops.
Taste testing: Before releasing finished products, top brands conduct internal taste tests to ensure good flavor. Augason Farms employs chefs and food scientists to develop its recipes.
Trusted reputation: Well-established brands have earned trust through years of providing quality products to the prepper community. As a market leader for over 40 years, Augason Farms is a trusted name in emergency food.

Incorporating Branded Dried Foods into Your Survival Plan

When building your dried food stockpile, it's smart to incorporate trusted brands like Augason Farms while also storing basic bulk ingredients. Some tips:

Use branded #dried foods for survival like Augason Farms meal kits for convenience and balanced nutrition. Combine with your own stored rice, beans, pasta for variety.
Take advantage of sales and special offers from leading brands to get high-quality ingredients at a great value. Sign up for newsletters to receive promotions.
Mix and match branded products with your own dried eggs, milk, produce for a well-rounded food supply. High-quality brands enhance nutrition while home drying provides affordable bulk calories.

By combining reputable branded goods with your own dried foods, you can build an emergency food supply with excellent taste, nutrition, and variety - key factors for thriving in extended survival situations.

Key Takeaways on Dried Foods for Survival Preparedness

Dried foods can play a critical role in emergency preparedness due to their long shelf life, portability, and nutritional value. When properly stored and maintained, they offer an affordable and durable food source to rely on when access to fresh foods is disrupted.

As you build your dried food stockpile, focus on nutrient-dense options that provide sufficient calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Aim for variety and balance across food groups. Proper storage conditions, rotating stock, and understanding rehydration methods will help maximize shelf life and usability.

Planning and organization is key - determine usage rates and build supplies tailored to your situation. Maintain an inventory to track expiration dates and continually replace items as needed. Test foods periodically to verify quality.

With the right selection and maintenance strategy, dried foods can serve as the foundation of an effective survival food supply.