Long Term Survival Food Storage Essentials

When it comes to long term survival, having a reliable food supply is crucial.

In this article, you'll discover the essential items to stockpile so you can put together a nutritious and space-efficient long term food storage plan that will last 25+ years.

We'll explore storage techniques to maximize shelf life, budget-friendly buying strategies, space-saving storage solutions, and more.

Introduction to Long Term Survival Food Storage

Long term survival food storage is essential for emergency preparedness. Having a reliable stockpile of nutritious food and water is crucial in case of prolonged disasters or grid-down scenarios. This article provides an overview of key considerations for building up your long term food reserves.

Understanding the Importance of Long Term Food Supply

Storing enough food and water is one of the most fundamental aspects of emergency preparedness. In disastrous situations like earthquakes, floods, or civil unrest, normal supply chains can be disrupted for extended periods. Having your own reserves avoids desperate scrambles for scarce resources.

Ideally, your storage should sustain all members of your household for at least several months. Stored properly, shelf-stable foods can remain edible for 10+ years.

Assessing Your Long Term Survival Food Storage Needs

When calculating your food reserves, consider:

Household size
Nutritional requirements
Expected duration of emergency
Space available for storage

On average, an adult requires 2,000 calories daily. So a family of 4 would need 2,000 x 4 = 8,000 calories per day. Over 3 months = 8,000 x 90 days = 720,000 calories minimum.

Use shelf-stable foods like grains, legumes, canned goods, freeze-dried meals. Calculate total calories/nutrients based on what you store.

Strategies for Maximizing Shelf Life and Nutrition

Proper storage is key to keeping food edible and nutritious for years. Useful methods include:

Mylar bags - Waterproof and oxygen-resistant to prevent spoilage
Oxygen absorbers - Removes oxygen from bags to prevent bacteria growth
Food-grade buckets - Seal out light, moisture, pests
Cool, dark place - Optimal storage conditions to minimize deterioration

Rotate stock using "first in, first out" system. Use within suggested shelf life and replace expired items.

Planning for Space Efficiency in Food Storage

Food reserves take up considerable space. To maximize storage in limited areas:

Prioritize calorie/nutrient dense items - grains, beans, powdered milk, oils
Use shelving units, totes, and organizers to optimize vertical room
Store under beds, in closets, basement, garage, attic
If needed, consider an outdoor storage shed or shipping container

With some planning, even small living spaces can store a substantial food supply.

What is best survival food for long-term storage?

When building your long term survival food storage, focus on shelf-stable foods that provide balanced nutrition and have a long shelf life without refrigeration. Some good options to consider include:

Canned meats like tuna, chicken, salmon, and spam. Canned meats are packed in water or oil, giving them a shelf life of 2-5 years unopened. Once opened, transfer to an airtight container and use within a few days.
Rice and beans are nutritious, affordable, and can last up to 30 years when stored properly in airtight containers. Combine them to make a complete protein. Consider stocking white, brown, wild, and black rice varieties, along with kidney, pinto, black, and garbanzo beans.
Ready-to-eat cereals like oats, grits, and dried cereal mixes store well and are handy for quick meals. Look for whole grain options without added sugars.
Pasta and pasta mixes have a 1-2 year shelf life. Choose different pasta shapes and try pasta mixes with cheese or Alfredo sauce for variety.
Dried fruits like mangoes, pineapple, apples, raisins, cranberries, and blueberries add sweetness. Look for unsweetened varieties packed without preservatives or sulfur dioxide.
Trail mixes with nuts, seeds, coconut, and dried fruit make an easy high-calorie snack. DIY combinations allow you to control quality.

No matter what foods you choose, proper storage is key for extending shelf life. Store in cool, dark places in airtight containers. Oxygen absorbers and desiccant packs help remove moisture. Take inventory and rotate stock as you use it.

How do you preserve food for 20 years?

Preserving food for long-term storage requires using specific storage methods to maximize shelf life. The most effective approach is to store dried foods like beans, grains, and rice in sealed mylar bags inside food-grade buckets.

Why mylar bags and buckets are ideal for long-term food storage

Mylar bags create an oxygen-free environment that prevents oxidation and insect/rodent access. They are moisture and light resistant. Placed in a bucket, mylar bags are protected from physical damage. The combination provides an optimal barrier to the elements that cause food spoilage over time.

Benefits of this method:

Dried foods stored this way can last 20-30 years
Mylar bags are reusable if undamaged
Stacking buckets efficiently uses storage space

Steps for proper long-term food preservation

Purchase high-quality food-grade buckets and proper mylar bags
Add oxygen absorbers to bags before sealing to remove oxygen
Label bags with contents and date before placing in buckets
Seal bucket lids properly to ensure airtight seal
Store buckets in cool, dark place around 55-70°F

Following these best practices allows for decades-long food shelf life. Periodically checking containers for damage can ensure continued viability. With the right storage methods, stockpiling nutritious foods for emergencies is achievable.

How can survival food last 25 years?

Most survival food designed for long term storage is carefully processed and packaged to maximize shelf life while retaining nutrition and taste. Here are some of the key techniques used:

Dehydration and Freeze-Drying

Removing moisture is crucial for preventing bacterial growth and oxidation reactions. Dehydration and freeze-drying reduce water content to very low levels, allowing survival food to resist spoilage for decades. These processes also significantly reduce weight and volume.

Mylar Bags and Oxygen Absorbers

Mylar bags create an impermeable barrier to moisture and oxygen. Oxygen absorbers further remove any traces of oxygen from sealed pouches and containers. This prevents oxidation and rancidity. Used together, mylar and oxygen absorbers allow survival food to potentially last 25+ years.

Cool, Dry Storage

Even with protective packaging, temperature and humidity fluctuations can degrade food over time. Storing survival food in a consistently cool, dark, and dry location optimizes shelf life. Basements or interior closets away from exterior walls tend to provide suitable storage conditions.

With the right processing, packaging, and storage methods, survival food can retain safety, nutrition, and taste for multi-decade time spans, providing reliable sustenance when needed most. Periodically inspecting storage conditions and pouches for damage helps ensure your food supply remains viable.

What foods have a 10 year shelf life?

When stocking up on long term survival food storage, focusing on items with a long shelf life is key. Some foods can last 10 years or more if stored properly. Here are some of the best options:

Uncooked Rice and Grains

To really extend its shelf life, transfer the rice out of the bag or package it comes in, put it into an airtight container. White, jasmine, and basmati rices will last the longest and you can count on quinoa, barley, and grits to last you nearly a decade.

Canned Goods

Canned goods like vegetables, fruits, meats, and beans can easily last 10+ years. Just make sure to store them in a cool, dark place to preserve quality and prevent rusting. Once opened, consume within a few days.

Honey

With its high sugar content, honey has an almost indefinite shelf life. Store in an airtight container out of direct light and it will last for many years.

Hard Liquor

Unopened hard liquor like vodka, rum, whiskey, and tequila can keep for 10+ years when stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The alcohol content prevents spoilage.

With the right storage methods, focusing on non-perishable foods with low moisture content will give you a long lasting food storage stockpile for emergencies.

Essential Long Term Survival Food Storage Ideas

Stocking up on food with long shelf lives is crucial for emergency preparedness. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide calories, protein, vitamins and minerals.

Grains and Cereals for Bulk Food Storage

Rice, oats, and wheat berries are versatile base ingredients that can be stored in mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. Opt for whole grains whenever possible for added nutrition. White rice has a longer shelf life but less nutrients.

Protein-Rich Foods: Beans and Legumes

Beans like pinto, black, garbanzo and kidney are packed with plant-based protein. They are perfect for long term storage when properly rehydrated before cooking. Rotate and use beans regularly to ensure freshness.

Preserved Fruits and Vegetables

Canned or freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, soups and meats are convenient options. Store in a cool, dark place to maximize shelf life. Focus on nutritious ingredients like carrots, green beans and mixed fruit.

Essential Fats and Oils

Fats like coconut oil, olive oil and vegetable oil are calorie-dense and important for health. Store in opaque, airtight containers away from heat and sunlight to prevent rancidity.

Specialty Items: Gluten Free and Enhanced Flavor

Those with dietary restrictions can store gluten-free ingredients like rice, legumes and canned items. Butter powder and seasonings add flavor variety.

When building your long term food supply, focus on nutrient diversity, storage methods, shelf life and proper rotation. Stock versatile ingredients that provide essential nutrition for emergency situations.

Best Containers for Long Term Survival Food Storage

Using the right containers is critical for successful long term food storage. The goal is to protect your food from oxygen, light, moisture, insects and rodents in order to maximize shelf life. Here are some of the best options:

Choosing the Right Long Term Food Storage Containers

5-7 gallon plastic buckets with gasket lids are a popular choice. The lid forms an airtight seal and the opaque bucket protects against light. Look for food-grade buckets.
Clear plastic totes are good for organizing and taking inventory. Use for non-sensitive items stored in Mylar bags.
Mylar bags provide an oxygen and moisture barrier to preserve food quality and extend shelf life. Use multi-layer bags with a thick metalized layer.
Oxygen absorbers remove oxygen from sealed Mylar bags, helping prevent oxidation and spoilage. Use the appropriate size for your bag volume.
Ensure all containers are high quality, food grade, BPA-free, and have airtight lids. Rodent-proof if storing in a garage or basement.

The Role of Mylar Bags in Food Preservation

Mylar bags are critical for long term food storage. The metalized layer blocks oxygen and moisture from reaching the food.
For best results, use oxygen absorbers in the bag before sealing to remove oxygen. This significantly extends shelf life.
Seal bags with a quality iron set on the appropriate temperature setting to prevent damage. Fold and reinforce the seal.
Label each bag with the contents and date before placing in storage containers.

Vacuum Sealing for Extended Shelf Life

Vacuum sealing removes oxygen from Mylar bags, jars, and pouches prior to sealing. Lack of oxygen can extend shelf life up to 5 times longer.
Choose a quality vacuum sealer designed for long term storage rather than typical kitchen use. Consider chamber sealers for liquid-containing foods.
Follow all manufacturer guidelines for proper use and maintenance. Vacuum seal in short bursts to avoid crushing food. Allow liquids to settle before sealing.

Emergency Water Pouch and Drinking Water Solutions

Having an emergency supply of safe drinking water is as vital as long term food storage.
Store commercially packaged emergency water pouches alongside your food supplies. Rotate stock every 5 years.
Alternatively, store and rotate your own water in food-grade 55 gallon barrels fitted with tap kits. Add water preserver concentrate.
Water bricks, portable water filters, calcium hypochlorite tablets, and water testing kits round out a complete potable water solution.

Optimal Food Storage Conditions for Longevity

Maintaining proper storage conditions is critical for maximizing the shelf life of your emergency food supply. This ensures you have nutritious, safe food available when you need it most.

Ideal Location for Long Term Food Storage

The optimal location to store food long-term is a cool, dark, dry place with relatively stable temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. The best options are usually a basement, root cellar, or interior closet. Exposure to light, heat, and humidity can accelerate spoilage.

Maintaining the Right Temperature

Keeping your storage area between 50°F and 70°F helps prevent spoilage while retaining nutrition. Avoid temperature fluctuations which speed up chemical reactions. Monitor conditions with a thermometer.

Controlling Humidity Levels

Humidity above 70% encourages mold growth which makes food unsafe. Use a dehumidifier if needed. Oxygen absorbers and desiccants prevent moisture buildup inside containers. Mylar bags provide an additional humidity barrier.

Proper conditions give you peace of mind knowing your food supply will retain quality and be there when you need it, even years into the future. With some planning your emergency rations can remain nutritious for decades.

Long Term Food Storage Inventory Management

Implementing a Date Labelling System

When storing food for the long term, it's essential to implement a date labelling system to track when items were purchased and packed. This allows you to effectively rotate your stock using the "first in, first out" principle.

Here are some tips for date labelling your long term food storage:

Label each container with the purchase or packing date using a permanent marker. Write the month and year in a consistent format (e.g. 10/22).
For items like grains, beans, and other bulk items, you can use masking tape and write the date with a permanent marker.
Make sure labels are easy to spot when you inspect and rotate inventory. Place them in the same area on each container type.
Consider color coding labels by year to make visual rotation easier. For example, all containers packed in 2022 could have red text while 2023 uses blue.

Having accurate date labels is crucial for long term food storage management. It prevents waste from items expiring before use and ensures you rotate stock properly.

Adhering to First In, First Out Principles

When retrieving food from your long term storage, be sure to follow "first in, first out" guidelines. This means using the oldest food first before tapping into newer inventory. Here are some tips:

When inspecting inventory, make note of the oldest dates. Pull these containers forward to be used next.
Clearly mark the front of shelves/storage bins with oldest dates for easy identification.
If space allows, organize inventory by date with oldest items most accessible.

Sticking to first in, first out rotation prevents food waste from expiration. It also ensures you continually cycle through and refresh your supply with new items as older ones get used. Make it a habit to check dates when getting food for meals or your everyday pantry.

Regular Monitoring and Inspection

To maintain ideal storage conditions and prevent pest issues or moisture damage, regularly monitor and inspect your long term food storage area.

Do quick visual checks every 1-2 weeks for any signs of pests or temperature/humidity issues. Address any problems immediately.
Do thorough container inspections every 3-6 months. Check all containers for expiration dates, signs of moisture or pests, seal integrity, etc. Identify any compromised items for immediate use.
Check emergency tools like battery powered lights, moisture absorbers, thermometers/hygrometers, etc. Replace as needed.
Do a full deep cleaning annually - clear all shelves, clean surfaces thoroughly, check seals on storage bins, etc.

Consistent monitoring and inspections allow you to stay ahead of problems and ensure your food supply remains in usable condition for as long as possible.

Budgeting for Long Term Survival Food Storage

When building a long term food storage plan, it's important to budget appropriately to ensure you have the supplies you need. Here are some tips for weighing costs and buying in bulk:

Comparing Home-Packed and Commercial Emergency Food Supply

Home-packed meals allow you to control ingredients and nutrition at a lower cost, while commercial kits provide convenience. Consider:

Home-packed: Allows ingredient control for dietary needs. Cheaper per meal but requires work. Ensure proper storage and rotation.
Commercial kits: Convenient, ready-to-eat. More expensive per meal. Check nutritional info. Consider food fatigue.

Evaluate your time, budget, and needs to choose what fits best. Blending both provides flexibility.

Strategies for Buying in Bulk for Long Term Storage

Buying ingredients in bulk offers cost savings but has a larger upfront investment. Strategies include:

Set budget goals for bulk emergency food supply items. Slowly build up inventory levels.
Shop sales and buy extra to stock up. Build gradually.
Split bulk purchases with like-minded friends/family. Save on volume discounts.

When ready, purchase grains, beans, freeze-dried produce in bulk for efficiency.

Leveraging Group Purchasing for Discounts

Coordinating with others allows buying wholesale for savings:

Organize group buys from wholesalers. Split volume discounts.
Take turns making shared bulk purchases month-to-month.
Create online groups to find local interest, coordinate deals.

Building community resilience together makes preparations more affordable.

Creating Well-Rounded Meals from Long Term Storage

Combine foods from different groups for nutritional balance.

Diverse Protein Sources

When building your long term food storage, be sure to stock up on diverse sources of protein. Canned meats like tuna, salmon, chicken, and beef are all good options. Canned beans and lentils also provide protein and fiber. Peanut butter and nut butters have a long shelf life and are packed with protein. Protein powders can round out your stock.

Rotate through these protein sources and pair them with grains, starches, fruits, and vegetables for balanced, nutritious meals. Having a variety of proteins prevents taste fatigue.

Incorporating Fruits and Vegetables

In addition to proteins, fruits and vegetables are vital for health. Canned, freeze-dried, and dehydrated produce all store well long term. Aim for variety - carrots, green beans, corn, peas, potatoes, apples, berries, and more.

Fruits and veggies provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients. Adding them to meals with proteins and starches makes the meals more appetizing, balanced, and nutrient-dense.

Grains and Starches as Energy Sources

Don't forget about grains and starches! Rice, oats, pasta, cornmeal, wheat berries, flour, and more offer carbohydrates for energy. These affordable pantry staples are easy to store long term if kept cool, dry, and sealed from pests.

Combine whole grains and starches with canned veggies, fruits, beans, and proteins to create nutritionally complete meals like casseroles, stir fries, soups, stews, and more.

25-Year Emergency Food Supply Options

For hands-off long term food storage, consider a 25-year emergency food kit. Companies like Augason Farms, Mountain House, and Wise Foods offer pails and cans packed with freeze-dried entrees, meats, produce, grains, and baking ingredients.

These commercial kits provide over two decades worth of calories and nutrients. However, they require a significant upfront investment and offer less variety than personally customized long term food pantries. Evaluate your budget and preferences when deciding which long term food storage options are right for your situation.

DIY Long Term Food Storage Techniques

Learn how to pack and preserve your own food for long-term storage.

Home Dehydration and Freeze Drying

Dehydrating and freeze drying food at home are effective ways to prepare food for long term storage while retaining nutrients.

To dehydrate food:

Invest in a quality dehydrator machine with adjustable temperature controls. Look for models with built-in timers and multiple trays.
Slice fruits, vegetables, and meats into thin, uniform pieces before dehydrating. This allows for even drying.
Store dried foods in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Add oxygen absorbers to help remove moisture and prevent spoilage.
Label all containers with contents and date before storing.

To freeze dry food:

Purchase a home freeze dryer machine or use a freezer with adjustable temperature controls.
Freeze food until solid then lower freezer temperature to allow slow sublimation.
Check food intermittently until completely dry and brittle.
Transfer to airtight, moisture-proof containers for storage.

Properly dehydrated or freeze dried foods can last 5-25 years when stored correctly.

Canning and Preserving at Home

Canning and preserving are time-tested methods for long term food storage.

For canning, invest in canning jars, lids, a large pot with rack, jar lifter, etc. Sterilize all equipment first.
Only use trusted canning recipes. Carefully follow instructions for prep, pH levels, headspace, processing time/PSI based on altitude.
Allow jars to seal then check lids for tightness, no bubbles, and concave shape. Refrigerate any unsealed jars.
Label all jars with contents and date before storing in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years.
For other preserving like curing, pickling, or jams - follow trusted recipes precisely.

Properly canned or preserved foods can safely last 1-2 years when protocol is followed.

Creating Your Own Emergency Food Ration Bars

Making your own nutrient-dense ration bars can be a cost-effective way to add variety to a long term food storage plan.

Choose calorie-dense base ingredients like oats, nuts, dried fruits, honey, nut butters, protein powder etc.
Mix dry ingredients first then add wet to form a thick dough. For portability, press firmly into a pan before slicing into bars.
Customize with ingredients like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, seeds etc. Tailor macros and calories to your needs.
Allow bars to set fully before individually wrapping in plastic wrap or foil and storing in airtight containers.

DIY ration bars can last 2-6 months stored properly. Rotate into daily snacks to ensure freshness.

Supplemental Survival Gear and Kits

Beyond having adequate food supplies, it's important to consider other essential items that can enhance your emergency preparedness. Let's explore some key survival gear and complete kits to complement your long-term food storage.

Essential Survival Gear for Emergencies

When building your survival supplies, be sure to stock up on versatile tools, first aid essentials, and backup lighting sources:

Multi-tools like Swiss Army Knives that contain knives, screwdrivers, scissors, and other functions are invaluable for handling minor repairs and tasks.
First aid kits with bandages, gauze, ointments, and medications can treat injuries when professional medical care is unavailable.
Flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps provide light if the power goes out. Crank and solar-powered options don't require batteries.
Other useful items are duct tape, rope, tarps, whistles, dust masks, work gloves, and an emergency radio/weather radio.

Having these basic tools and medical supplies can significantly improve your ability to handle emergencies and urgent issues independently.

Assembling a Comprehensive Survival Kit

A well-rounded survival kit should contain:

Water - Pack commercially bottled water or portable water filters/purifiers. Plan for at least one gallon per person per day.
Food - Include long-lasting emergency food bars and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Prioritize calorie-and nutrient-dense options.
First Aid - Assemble a first aid kit with various medical supplies as described earlier.
Tools and Light - Have versatile tools, flashlights, batteries, and other gear.
Clothing and Shelter - Pack weather-appropriate extra clothes, hats, gloves, emergency blankets, tents, and sleeping bags.

Customize your kit based on your climate, number of people, specialized needs, and likely emergency scenarios. Maintain and resupply it regularly.

Augason Farms and Other Long Term Food Brands

Popular brands of long-term emergency food products include:

Augason Farms - Offers a very wide range of bulk ingredients, freeze-dried fruits/vegetables, baked goods, meal kits, and more with 20-30 year shelf lives. Highly reputable with moderate prices.
Mountain House - Known for their portable, lightweight freeze-dried backpacking/camping food pouches good for 7-30 years. Reasonably priced.
Wise Foods - Sells individual ingredients, full meals, and huge survival kits lasting 25 years. Budget-friendly.
Legacy Premium - High-end, restaurant-quality freeze-dried meat, fruits, vegetables, and meals lasting up to 25 years. Expensive but exceptional taste.

Research different brands to find ones with quality ingredients, proven long shelf lives, and tastes suiting your preferences. Favor those offering nutritionally balanced products.

Key Takeaways for Long Term Survival Food Storage

Focus on versatile, nutrient-dense foods stored properly in cool, dark places. Rotate and track inventory.

Store What You Eat and Eat What You Store

Stock up on non-perishable foods that you already eat regularly. This ensures you will use the stored food before it expires. Some good options are rice, beans, pasta, oats, peanut butter, and canned foods like tuna, vegetables, and fruits. Buy ingredients you can combine into easy meals.

Stay Informed on Expiration Dates

Track expiration dates and follow the "first in, first out" principle to rotate stock. Move newer items to the back and use up older ones first. Check dates every few months and donate anything about to expire. An inventory list helps avoid food waste.

Ensure Sufficient Variety and Nutrition

Store foods from all groups - grains, protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Combining your stockpile items creates balanced meals with essential vitamins and minerals. Consider nutritional needs of family members. Include comfort foods for morale.

Review and Update Your Long Term Food Storage List PDF

An up-to-date inventory PDF ensures you know exactly what is in storage. Tracking helps identify gaps and avoid overbuying items you already have. Update the list whenever removing or adding food items. Review it every 6 months as part of your rotation process.