Preparing for emergencies with long term food storage is an prudent idea that most would agree is wise.
By learning about the top long term food storage companies, you can create a well-stocked emergency food supply to keep your family nourished in times of crisis.
In this post, we'll explore the benefits of stockpiling long-term emergency food, review the leading suppliers and their specialty offerings, provide tips for storage and integration into your diet, and more.
Introduction to Long Term Food Storage for Emergency Preparedness
Long term food storage refers to stockpiling non-perishable foods and water that can be stored for extended periods of time, from months to years. This is an essential component of emergency preparedness plans, allowing households to rely on their own food reserves in the event of natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, or other crises.
Defining Long Term Food Storage
Long term food storage differs from short term storage in both the types of food as well as the duration it can be preserved. Foods intended for long term stockpiling are processed and packaged to prevent spoilage for 5-10 years or longer if stored properly. This includes freeze-dried foods, MREs, canned goods, grains, and more. Short term storage consists of fresh foods stored for several weeks in the refrigerator or pantry.
Benefits of Stockpiling Food
Building up long term food reserves has many benefits beyond just preparing for disasters:
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Nutrition - Stockpiled survival foods provide balanced nutrition to keep your family healthy. Freeze-dried and MRE options retain nutrients better than canned goods.
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Financial savings - Purchasing bulk quantities of shelf-stable foods allows you to buy at lower costs per meal. Stocking up on sales saves money.
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Practicality - Having food on hand means not having to shop as often. It also provides peace of mind knowing you have supplies during quarantines or inclement weather.
How Much Food to Store
Experts recommend storing at least a 3-month supply of food per person, with higher quantities for longer duration crises or bigger households. Take into account special dietary needs as well. A good rule of thumb is to store what you eat and eat what you store to cycle through the stockpile.
Best Long Term Food Storage Companies for Your Safety Net
Long term food storage can be a critical part of an emergency preparedness plan. Having a supply of shelf-stable foods ensures you have a safety net if a disaster or emergency situation arises. When choosing a company for your food storage needs, it's important to consider taste, nutrition, ingredients, and affordability. Here are some of the top long term food storage companies that offer high-quality options.
Augason Farms - A Leader in Emergency Foods
Augason Farms is one of the most well-known emergency food companies, with a reputation for good tasting meals and reliable nutrition information. Their food kits come in various sizes, from individual entrees to a full year supply of calories and vegetables. Their products have an impressive 30 year shelf life. While Augason Farms food is relatively affordable, reviews indicate their dishes can be a bit bland compared to other companies. But they offer all the calories and nutrients you need.
Wise Survival Food - Dependable Options for Preppers
Wise Food Storage provides long term food buckets and pouches meant to sustain you in an emergency situation. Their products boast a 25 year shelf life. Wise offers gluten-free buckets packed with grains, breakfast items, and entrees. However, some reviewers say their vegetable and fruit pouches lack freshness. But their meals provide balanced nutrition, making them a dependable choice for those building an emergency food supply.
Valley Food Storage - Pure and Simple Ingredients
Valley Food Storage sets themselves apart by never using GMOs, MSG, fillers or artificial preservatives. Their meals consist of simple, whole-food ingredients. While more expensive than other brands, Valley Food promises quality taste and nutrition without unwanted additives. Their food buckets feature recipes like chicken alfredo pasta and apple cinnamon oatmeal. Valley Food Storage also has vegetarian, gluten-free options.
Legacy Food Storage - Gourmet Solutions
For premium emergency meals, Legacy Food Storage is a go-to choice. Their gourmet line of freeze-dried and dehydrated foods feature dishes like chicken cordon bleu, rice pilaf, and banana pudding. Legacy also has everyday staples like eggs, milk, fruit, and veggies. Their meals receive rave taste reviews compared to standard long term food brands. Legacy Food does come at a higher price point, but their quality ingredients and great taste make it worth it for some.
When choosing a long term food storage company, assess your budget, dietary needs, and preferences like taste to decide what brand fits your situation best. Having an emergency food supply helps you brave any storm.
List of Long Term Food Storage Companies in the USA
Long term food storage can be an integral part of an emergency preparedness plan. Having a supply of shelf-stable foods and water on hand can provide sustenance and peace of mind when facing unpredictable events. This list highlights some of the top national and regional companies that offer long term food storage options across the United States.
National Providers and Their Specialties
Some of the most well-known preparedness food brands distribute their products nationwide. These companies focus on providing nutritious, long-lasting foods tailored to different budgets and lifestyles.
- Augason Farms - This company offers convenient #best survival food kits and pouches across a range of food types, including breakfasts, entrées, fruits, vegetables, and baking ingredients. Their emergency food kits are known for their versatility and long 30 year shelf life.
- Wise Food Storage - Wise provides bundle packages with full meals across categories like breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their food is freeze-dried to maintain nutrition and taste for 25+ years in storage. Wise is regarded for their gluten-free and vegetarian food options.
- Valley Food Storage - Valley Food Storage specializes in bulk quantities of basics like freeze-dried vegetables, fruits, meats and protein at affordable prices. Their most popular items include banana slices, chicken chunks, and ground beef crumbles with a shelf life of up to 25 years.
Finding Long Term Food Storage Companies Near Me
Beyond the national brands, many local preparedness food suppliers can also be great sources depending on your location. Search for terms like "emergency food storage near me" or "long term food storage companies in #list of long term food storage companies" to find suppliers close by.
It can be worthwhile to visit local stores in person to check freshness of stock, taste products, and learn about any special regional offerings. Local companies may also offer more flexibility with custom food packaging and delivery compared to bigger mainstream brands.
Comparing Cost and Value Among Providers
When evaluating preparedness food companies, the most cost-effective option depends greatly on your intended use cases, taste preferences and desired volume. Wise Food Storage and Valley Food tend to offer better value for those wanting bulk quantities of basics like grains, while Augason Farms provides more comprehensive meal variety in their kits.
Consider starting with smaller trial sizes before investing in large quantities from any provider. Look at the expected shelf life and nutrition profiles to understand what you're paying for. With time and experience testing different emergency food sources, you'll discover the offerings that combine affordable pricing with reliable quality to meet your #top long term food storage needs.
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What to Look for When Buying Long Term Food
When selecting a long term food storage company, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you are getting high-quality products that will meet your emergency preparedness needs.
Shelf Life and Preservation Techniques
The shelf life of long term storage foods can vary greatly depending on the preservation methods used. On average, foods sealed in #1 grade cans have a shelf life of 30+ years, while foods that are freeze dried or dehydrated can last 10-25 years when properly stored. It's important to select companies that use proven techniques like freeze drying, nitrogen flushing, and mylar pouches to maximize shelf life.
Nutritional Value and Meal Balance
Quality survival foods should provide adequate protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to promote health. When possible, choose meal kits or entrees that offer balanced nutrition across essential food groups. Prioritize non-GMO ingredients with no artificial flavors/colors. Consider adding supplemental powders or tablets for key nutrients like Vitamin C.
Taste and Palatability
While nutrition is critical, taste still matters for compliance and morale. Seek out companies that offer recipes made to taste good while avoiding too much sodium, sugar, or fat. Favorable taste makes you more likely to eat the food before it expires. Consider sampling kits to test products.
Packaging and Ease of Preparation
Packaging should preserve freshness and prevent waste by allowing easy resealing after opening. Pouches, cans, and plastic containers tend to store and reseal better than cardboard boxes or paper packets. Meal preparation should be straightforward with included cooking instructions where needed.
When researching companies, be sure to vet their credentials, manufacturing standards, and customer reviews. Reputable brands like Augason Farms and Wise Survival Food are known for high-quality offerings. Consider sampling different long term food storage companies to find your best match.
Storing Your Emergency Food Supply
Choosing the Right Location
When selecting a location to store your emergency food supply, it's important to choose a space that is cool, dry, and free from direct sunlight. Ideal storage temperatures are between 55-70°F. Avoid places like attics or garages that experience temperature extremes. Basements or interior closets often make good storage areas. Consider getting a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Use sealable plastic bins or food-grade buckets with gasket lids to protect emergency food from pests, oxygen, and moisture. Oxygen absorbers or desiccant packs can help remove oxygen and moisture from containers. Storing similar food types together in labeled bins makes items easy to inventory and access when needed.
Containers for Optimal Longevity
Airtight containers are vital for preventing oxygen, insects, rodents, and moisture from getting into stored food. 5-7 gallon buckets with gamma seal lids make ideal containers because they stack neatly while keeping contents secure. Mylar bags, vacuum sealing pouches, and canning jars also protect against oxygen and moisture. Ensure containers are food-grade and BPA-free. Include oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen from containers for maximum shelf life.
Organization Techniques for Accessibility
Organize emergency food supplies by food type - grains, baking items, canned goods, etc. Catalog inventory in a computer file or notebook with purchase dates and expiration/best by dates. Label storage containers clearly and keep an updated list of contents. Use a first-in, first-out system to rotate stock, using oldest food first. Take occasional inventory and watch for damaged containers or insect/rodent infestations.
Maintaining Food Quality Over Time
Inspect containers periodically for signs of moisture, mold, or infestations which can quickly ruin stored food. Use oxygen absorbers in containers to remove oxygen and prevent oxidation. Store grains and legumes in airtight containers in cool, dark spaces to prevent spoilage. Canned goods have a long shelf life but eventually lose quality and nutrients over years. Rotate stock using a first-in, first-out system. Certain foods like honey, rice, beans and some canned goods can last 30 years or more if stored properly.
Integrating Long Term Storage Into Your Daily Diet
Long term food storage can be an incredibly useful part of an emergency preparedness plan. However, to get the most out of your investment in long term storage items, it's important to integrate them into your regular diet. Here are some tips for doing just that.
Creating a Rotation System
The key is to use a first-in, first-out system. This means rotating your older food into regular meals before it expires. Designate part of your pantry for emergency storage items. As you purchase new cans, boxes, or buckets of food, put the newest in the back. When cooking, take ingredients from the front to ensure you're using the oldest first. This rotation system prevents waste and keeps items fresh.
Recipe Ideas Using Stored Foods
Get creative with recipes using your stored emergency ingredients! For example, add canned vegetables, meats or beans to soups, casseroles, pasta dishes, etc. Use storage powders to make bread, pancakes, muffins, etc. Keep a running list of recipe ideas so you always have a plan to rotate storage foods into meals.
Avoiding Food Fatigue
It's easy to get burned out on repetitive dishes using your long term food storage items. To prevent this, vary recipes regularly and season stored ingredients in different ways. For example, use various spices, mix in fresh ingredients when possible, or create versatile ingredient combinations to make diverse meals. Planning ahead is key.
Balancing Nutrition with Stored Foods
While stored foods are convenient for emergencies, many lack freshness or variety. When relying heavily on your stockpile, focus on nutrients that may be missing. For example, add multi-vitamins to your storage. Grow sprouts or microgreens under grow lights. Stock herbs to add micronutrients. With a little planning, you can maintain balanced nutrition from stored foods.
Final Thoughts on Selecting the Best Survival Food Companies in 2023
As this article has shown, investing in long term food storage from reputable companies is a prudent step for emergency preparedness. When selecting a company to provide your food supplies, be sure to vet their credentials, quality, and variety of offerings.
The best survival food companies like Augason Farms, Wise Food Storage, and Valley Food Storage have decades of experience providing nutritious, long-lasting meals to customers across the country. They offer freeze-dried and dehydrated foods with 20-30 year shelf lives, requiring only water to prepare. Kits are available based on duration, calories per day, or number of people.
When an unexpected event occurs, having reliable food reserves eliminates the stress of last-minute supply runs. It also reduces reliance on public assistance. With the right planning, you can have confidence knowing your family will remain fed and healthy.
