Preparing with Mountain House Survival Food

Finding reliable long-term food sources is a common struggle when prepping for emergencies.

Luckily, Mountain House offers a variety of freeze-dried survival food products that can last up to 30 years when properly stored.

In this article, you'll discover tips for effectively integrating Mountain House meals into your emergency food supply, including storage methods to maximize shelf life, rotation strategies to avoid waste, preparation techniques for delicious dishes, and more.

Introduction to Mountain House Survival Food

Mountain House is a well-known brand when it comes to survival and emergency preparedness meals. Their freeze-dried food offers convenience, portability, and a long shelf life - making it an ideal addition to any emergency food supply.

Understanding Mountain House Freeze Dried Food

Mountain House uses a process called freeze drying to create meals that are lightweight and compact. This process removes around 97% of the food's water content through freezing and heating under a vacuum. The resulting food only needs hot water added to reconstitute into a delicious, filling meal in minutes.

With an average shelf life of over 30 years when stored properly, Mountain House meals are perfect for emergency kits and survival pantries. They require no refrigeration and take up very little space compared to other food options.

Advantages of Including Mountain House Meals in Your Emergency Food Supply

There are several key reasons why Mountain House freeze dried meals are a smart choice as part of your emergency preparations:

Long shelf life: With a 30+ year shelf life, Mountain House meals will be there when you need them, even decades into the future. This makes them ideal for a long-term emergency food supply.
Lightweight and portable: The freeze drying process removes almost all the food's weight in water, making Mountain House meals very lightweight and compact in storage. They are easy to transport if you need to evacuate.
No refrigeration required: Freeze dried meals do not require any refrigeration, unlike many other types of emergency food. This makes storage simple.
Variety of entrée options: Mountain House offers a diverse range of breakfasts, entrees, sides, and even desserts. With options like lasagna, chicken teriyaki and blueberry cheesecake, the whole family can enjoy tasty hot meals.

Assessing the Variety of Mountain House Food Options

From scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast to beef stroganoff for dinner, Mountain House has freeze dried meal options to suit most tastes and dietary needs. Their wide selection includes:

Breakfast Skillets like ham and cheese or southwest-style
Hearty entrees like spaghetti with meat sauce or chicken fried rice
Sides like mashed potatoes or corn
Even desserts like apple crisp and banana nut bread

Whether preparing for a 72-hour emergency kit or stocking up on survival food for long-term disasters, Mountain House offers both variety and reliable nutrition to see you and your family through tough times. Their freeze dried food handles well in storage and provides easy meal solutions when you need them most.

What foods should I stockpile for survival?

When building your emergency food supply, focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable foods that will sustain you and your family during a crisis. Here are some of the most important categories to stock up on:

Canned and Dried Goods

Canned meats like chicken, tuna, salmon that provide protein. Choose low-sodium options.
Canned beans, vegetables, and fruits packed in juice rather than syrup.
Whole grains like rice, quinoa, oats that have long shelf lives.
Dried beans and lentils are inexpensive sources of fiber and protein.

Mountain House Freeze-Dried Foods

Mountain House makes high-quality freeze dried survival food that's lightweight and has a shelf life up to 30 years.
Their food pouches are easy to prepare - just add hot water.
Mountain House meals run $$-$$$ per pouch but provide nutrition when cooking isn't possible.

Water

Having potable water is critical in an emergency. Store at least 1 gallon per person per day. Consider:

Commercially bottled water
Water storage containers and water filtration systems
Water purification tablets to make found water safe for drinking

Rotate and replenish food and water supplies yearly to keep them fresh. With the right stockpile, you'll be eating well no matter the situation.

What is the best survival food?

When building an emergency food supply, it's important to focus on shelf-stable foods that provide nutrients, calories, and satisfaction. Some top options to keep in your pantry include:

Peanut Butter

An excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and calories. Choose natural peanut butter without hydrogenated oils. Stays fresh for months once opened.

Whole-Wheat Crackers

Provide carbohydrates and fiber. Look for low/no salt varieties. Pair with peanut butter for protein. Store in airtight containers and they'll last for weeks on the shelf.

Nuts and Trail Mixes

Great for snacks. Offer protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Buy raw when possible. Last for months when properly stored.

Cereal

Choose whole grain cereals and store in airtight containers. Add shelf-stable milk for a balanced meal. Opt for low sugar varieties.

Granola and Protein Bars

Provide a quick boost of energy and nutrients. Store bars for up to a year. Choose bars with at least 3g of protein and fiber.

Dried Fruits

Offer antioxidants and nutrition. Last for months when properly repackaged and stored. Apricots, raisins, cranberries, and apples are excellent options.

Canned Tuna, Salmon, Chicken

Give proteins, omega-3s and essential nutrients. Buy "pop-top" cans that don't require a can opener. Water-packed varieties won't need draining.

Canned Vegetables

Choose salt-free or low-sodium vegetables. Peas, carrots, beans, beets, corn, and green beans. Store for at least 2 years. Excellent sources of vitamins.

How long will Mountain House freeze-dried food last?

Mountain House freeze-dried foods have an exceptionally long shelf life compared to other survival food options. As stated on their website, Mountain House meals packaged in pouches or buckets have a guaranteed shelf life of 30 years from the date of manufacture.

This 30-year shelf life makes Mountain House an excellent choice for including in your emergency food supply. A few key advantages of the long shelf life include:

You can buy in bulk and stock up supplies that will last for decades. This saves money compared to alternatives that must be replenished more frequently.
There is no need to continually rotate out and replace your Mountain House meals. Once purchased, they can be reliably stored for use even decades later.
You can have confidence that your Mountain House food will be there when you need it, even if an emergency strikes many years in the future.

The extreme shelf life comes from the freeze-drying process used by Mountain House, which removes almost all moisture from the ingredients. This prevents spoilage and allows the food to last for decades in an airtight package or bucket. Just be sure to follow the storage instructions to keep it in a cool, dry place for maximum longevity.

So in summary - yes, that 30-year shelf life claim by Mountain House is legitimate. Stock up on their survival food buckets and pouches, safely store them, and you'll have emergency rations to count on for decades into the future.

Who owns Mountain House food?

Oregon Freeze Dry, the company that owns the popular Mountain House brand of adventure and survival foods, was recently acquired by Arbor Investments, a private equity firm based in the United States.

Arbor Investments specializes in acquiring and growing companies in various industries, including outdoor recreation and consumer products. Their goal is to help established brands like Mountain House expand their operations and increase market share.

The Mountain House brand has been around since the 1960s, when it originally supplied freeze-dried foods to the United States military. Now it offers a wide range of freeze-dried meals tailored for backpackers, emergency preparedness, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Some key benefits of Mountain House foods for preppers and survivalists include:

Long shelf life of up to 30 years for unopened pouches
Lightweight and portable compared to canned goods
Requires only hot water for preparation
Offers a variety of entrée options including pastas, eggs, and meat dishes

While the ownership has changed, customers can expect the same tasty, convenient, and reliable meals they've come to expect from Mountain House. The new ownership will provide capital and expertise to help Mountain House grow even further as a leading brand in freeze-dried, survival-friendly foods.

Maximizing Shelf Life with Proper Storage Techniques

When purchasing Mountain House survival food in bulk, proper storage is key to ensuring maximum freshness and shelf life. Here are some best practices:

Choosing the Best Storage Conditions for Mountain House Meals

Store in a cool, dry, dark place between 50-70°F. Temperature fluctuations can impact shelf life.
Consider storing in sealed plastic buckets or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to protect from moisture, light, insects and rodents.
Basements, cellars or interior closets away from appliances tend to provide suitable storage conditions.

Effective Organization Strategies for Your Mountain House Food Supply

Categorize meals by food group or intended use (breakfast, lunch, snacks).
Use a spreadsheet, app, or written log to track inventory and expiration dates. First in, first out rotation is recommended.
Affix labels directly on storage containers showing contents and best by dates for easy identification.

Protecting Your Emergency Food Kits from Pests

Inspect containers periodically for signs of insects or rodents. Address any infestations immediately by isolating and discarding affected products.
Consider adding natural repellents like diatomaceous earth around the storage area.
Ensure all food stays sealed in airtight, pest-proof containers like Mylar bags. Any rips or openings can allow pests inside.

With proper storage conditions, organization systems, and pest prevention practices in place, Mountain House meals can retain their quality and freshness for years, providing reliable nutrition when you need it most.

Implementing a Rotation System for Your Mountain House Food

Maintaining a proper rotation system for your Mountain House survival food is crucial to ensure freshness and avoid waste. Here are some tips:

Establishing a First-In-First-Out (FIFO) Approach

Store your newly purchased Mountain House freeze-dried meals behind older packages on the shelf. This first-in-first-out system guarantees that the oldest food gets used first.
Date each pouch or bucket when you acquire it. That way you'll know exactly which meals to consume first when you need to tap into your emergency stash.
Create a spreadsheet to catalog all your stored Mountain House products by purchase date and shelf life. Consulting it periodically can help identify which meals to eat next.

Maintaining an Accurate Inventory of Your Freeze Dried Meals

Take a full count of your Mountain House stash at least twice per year. This will help you know if you need to restock anything specific or if certain meals are close to expiration.
Log opened Mountain House pouches with the date they were first accessed. This allows you to track how long they stay fresh after opening.
Set reminder alerts on your phone to prompt you when it's time to take stock of your emergency food inventory again.

Scheduling Regular Consumption of Stored Meals

Incorporate Mountain House meals into your dinner rotation every 2-3 months. Eating the stored food regularly ensures you cycle through it before expiry.
Camping trips, power outages, and outdoor excursions present the perfect opportunity to tap into your emergency food stash and test Mountain House quality.
When cooking stored Mountain House meals, check the packaging integrity, smell, texture, and taste. If anything seems off, it may be time to replace it.

Consistently rotating your Mountain House survival food eliminates waste and guarantees you have fresh, appetizing meals on hand when you need them most. Establishing an organized system is crucial for maintaining an adequate emergency food supply.

Preparing and Enjoying Mountain House Meals

Mountain House meals are a convenient and tasty option for emergency food preparation. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your Mountain House freeze dried foods.

Optimal Water Temperatures for Rehydrating Mountain House Freeze Dried Food

For best results, use warm or hot water when rehydrating your Mountain House meals. Temperatures between 120°F and 140°F work well.
Hot water allows the freeze dried ingredients to rehydrate faster and more thoroughly.
Avoid using cold water, as it can result in crunchy or unevenly hydrated ingredients.

Selecting the Right Utensils for Serving Mountain House Meals

Use metal utensils instead of plastic, which can warp or melt from the heat of some meals.
Insulated containers help keep meals hot for longer periods of time after rehydrating.
Bowls with lids allow you to save uneaten portions for later.

Storing Partially Consumed Freeze Dried Meals

Let leftover portions cool completely before sealing in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months.
When reheating, add a small amount of water to restore texture if needed.

Following proper preparation, storage, and reheating methods helps maximize the shelf life of your emergency food supply. Mountain House meals make an convenient base for your survival stockpile.

Supplementing Mountain House Meals for Nutritional Balance

Mountain House meals provide convenient, shelf-stable nutrition during emergencies. However, relying solely on freeze-dried entrees can lead to nutritional imbalances over time. Combining Mountain House with other pantry staples enhances meals' nutritional value and variety.

Incorporating Whole Grains with Mountain House Entrees

Pairing whole grains with Mountain House extends nutrients and calories. Consider storing:

Brown rice - Provides B vitamins and magnesium. Prepare with added broth for flavor.
Quinoa - High in protein, fiber, iron. Cooks quickly with Mountain House gravy or chili.
Oats - Shelf-stable oats offer fiber. Combine with fruit and nuts for breakfast.

Store grains in airtight containers and use oldest first. Estimate 1⁄2 cup uncooked grain per person.

Utilizing Shelf-Stable Produce to Enhance Mountain House Meals

Jarred or canned fruits and vegetables boost vitamin, mineral, and fiber intake. Have on hand:

Canned beans - High in protein and fiber. Toss with rice and Mountain House for burritos.
Canned tomatoes - Use for chili, pasta sauce, or soup base.
Dried fruit - For snacking or adding to oatmeal.
Canned vegetables like carrots, spinach, and beets - Quick additions to any meal.

Store in cool, dark place and inspect regularly for bulging cans.

Adding Comfort Foods to Your Emergency Food Kits

Comfort foods boost morale in stressful situations. Useful additions include:

Mac and cheese cups - Shelf-stable, familiar, kid-friendly.
Instant mashed potatoes - Pair with Mountain House meals for added calories.
Canned soup - Chicken noodle soup offers comfort along with nutrients.

Prioritize high-calorie, crowd-pleasing options to help maintain strength during emergencies. Estimate 2-3 servings per person for variety.

Combining Mountain House with grains, canned goods, and other pantry staples ensures complete, nutritious meals during disasters. Tailor additions to your family's tastes for maximum appetite and morale.

Crafting Customized Mountain House Meal Kits

Assembling personalized Mountain House meal kits with a variety of entrees and sides allows you to customize your food supply based on your family's unique tastes and nutritional needs.

Checklists for Complete Mountain House Meal Preparation

Create a master checklist that lists all needed items to prepare a Mountain House meal, such as a jetboil stove, fuel canister, pot, spoon, and water.
Make separate checklists for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack kits. Outline the specific Mountain House pouches, drinks and utensils included.
Print out checklists and place copies in your bug out bag, emergency kit, and pantry to reference whenever using your meal kits.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spice Packets

Survey family members on favorite spices and condiments to keep stocked. Good options include salt, pepper, hot sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha, lemon juice and olive oil.
Purchase extra spice pouches from Mountain House to add more kick and flavor to meals if desired.
Place a variety pack of sealed condiments into each meal kit to allow customization at time of eating.

Preparing Utensil and Napkin Sets for Ready-to-Eat Kits

Having needed utensils and paper goods on hand makes Mountain House meals convenient to enjoy on-the-go or during an emergency when regular kitchen items may be unavailable.
Prepare kits with disposable bamboo utensils, paper plates, and napkins. Add a bottle of hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and zip-top bags for easy clean up after eating.
Customize sets based on meal types, with knives and forks for entrees and spoons for breakfasts and desserts.

Cost-Effective Strategies for Acquiring Mountain House Products

Learning how to find the best deals on Mountain House products can help you build an emergency food supply without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:

Navigating Mountain House Sale Events for Budget-Friendly Purchases

Sign up for the Mountain House newsletter and follow their social media to stay updated on sales and promotions. They often offer site-wide discounts around major holidays.
Check Amazon and specialty online retailers frequently. Limited-time Mountain House sales sometimes pop up without much promotion. Set price drop alerts to catch surprise deals.
Ask your local outdoor gear and camping stores if they ever put Mountain House products on sale. Some offer periodic discounts not advertised elsewhere.
Consider purchasing Mountain House products second-hand on eBay or Facebook Marketplace if you're comfortable with that route. Gently used pouches can save quite a bit.

Utilizing Price Tracking for Mountain House Food Costco Deals

Services like CamelCamelCamel allow you to view Amazon price history charts and set up alerts for when prices drop. Use these to catch Costco deals.
The Costco website sometimes displays different prices than Amazon. Check both when price tracking for the best deal.
Find a friend or family member with a Costco membership and ask if they'd pick up discounted Mountain House if you gave them cash upfront. Most are willing to help.

Collaborating on Bulk Orders of Mountain House Survival Food Bulk

Coordinate a group order with 5+ people to meet retailer bulk order minimums and receive volume discounts.
Split up a large bulk shipment, dividing it amongst the group to save on storage space needs.
Ensure proper storage and rotation when sharing bulk orders so nothing expires before people can use it. First in, first out.

Taking some time to hunt down deals and buying in bulk with others are great ways to acquire quality Mountain House emergency food on a budget. Patience and planning pay off.

Conclusion: Integrating Mountain House into Your Survival Plan

Mountain House offers high-quality, long-lasting survival food that can be a crucial component of any emergency preparedness plan. As discussed, key benefits of Mountain House products include their 25+ year shelf life, superior taste, and lightweight portability.

When incorporating Mountain House into your survival routine, be sure to:

Reiterating the Significance of Practice and Regular Testing

Test your Mountain House meals at least yearly by cooking and eating a pouch. This ensures the food remains edible and allows you to become familiar with preparation.
Conduct practice emergency drills using your Mountain House supplies. Time how long it takes to access your storage area, retrieve a meal, and get water boiling.
Set reminders to routinely cycle out oldest pouches first and replace them with new ones approaching expiration.

Beyond Food: The Essentials of a Comprehensive Survival Kit

While Mountain House provides reliable, nutritious emergency food, a well-rounded survival plan must include other vital items:

A minimum 3-day supply of water for each person (1 gallon per person per day)
First aid supplies like bandages, medicines, sanitation items
Emergency shelter such as tents, sleeping bags, and mylar blankets

Stock up on these essentials alongside your Mountain House food reserve.

Developing a Robust Emergency Response Plan

Carefully think through various emergency scenarios and have an action plan specifying:

Where to access your Mountain House pouches and other gear
How family members will communicate if separated
Meeting locations or evacuation routes
Contingencies for all situations from natural disasters to civil unrest

Practice these response plans regularly alongside your Mountain House meal tests. This ensures you and your family will know how to safely utilize your emergency food supply when it matters most.

With smart preparation, Mountain House survival food can provide indispensable, reliable nutrition in any crisis. Follow these tips to effectively integrate it into your survival strategy.