Anyone would agree that having an emergency food supply is crucial for disaster preparedness.
By following a comprehensive prepping food storage list, even beginners can build up a 1-year stockpile of nutritious, long-lasting foods.
In this post, you'll get step-by-step advice on the best survival foods to store, water preparation, organization solutions to maximize your pantry space, tips to track expiration dates, and more.
Launching Your Prepping Food Storage Journey
As a beginner prepper, having a well-stocked emergency food supply is essential for survival preparedness. Here is a basic prepping food storage list to help you get started:
Non-Perishable Foods
- Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, meats
- Dried goods like rice, pasta, oats, flour
- Shelf-stable milk and protein shakes
- Nut butters and nuts
- Dried fruits and vegetables
- Cereals, granola bars, crackers
Drinks
- Bottled water
- Powdered drink mixes like coffee, tea, electrolyte drinks
Other Essentials
- Cooking oil
- Seasonings and spices
- Honey, maple syrup, sugar
- Vitamins
When building your prepping food storage list, focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable items that meet your dietary needs. Canned goods, dried goods, and shelf-stable items are ideal for long term food storage as they can last 1-2 years when properly stored.
Here are some tips for beginners on starting your emergency food prep:
- Take inventory of what non-perishable items you already have at home. Build up existing supplies before purchasing new items.
- Purchase a few extra non-perishable goods each week when you go grocery shopping. This allows you to build supplies gradually.
- Properly store foods in a cool, dry place to maximize freshness and shelf-life. Utilize airtight containers.
- Rotate and replace food items as they reach expiration dates to avoid waste.
- Tailor your emergency food supply to your household's unique dietary needs and preferences.
With some planning and proactive steps, you can amass a well-stocked food supply to prepare your family for emergencies. Use this prepping food storage list as your blueprint for getting started.
What foods should I stockpile for prepping?
When building an emergency food supply, it's important to have a variety of shelf-stable foods that will provide adequate nutrition. Here are some of the best options to include:
Canned and Dried Goods
- Canned meats like tuna, chicken, salmon, and beef stew can provide protein. Choose low-sodium options when possible.
- Canned beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Canned fruits and vegetables, or those packed in water rather than syrup, offer vitamins and minerals.
- Dried fruits, nuts, and trail mixes offer nutrition in compact packages. Prioritize unsalted nuts to control sodium intake.
- Canned soups and chili can provide calories and comfort. Go for lower-sodium varieties with more vegetables.
Grains, Cereals, and Starches
- Rice, oats, pasta, and quinoa have long shelf lives. Use airtight containers to prevent pests.
- Whole grain cereals, crackers, and shelf-stable bread provide carbohydrates and fiber.
- Starch-based foods like white potatoes and winter squash store well for months in cool, dark places.
Other Essentials
- Canned or powdered milk allows for cereal, oatmeal, and recipes requiring milk.
- Comfort foods like coffee, tea, honey, maple syrup, and chocolate provide morale boosts.
- Don't forget pet food, infant formula, and any necessary medications.
Focus on nutrient-dense foods with long shelf lives that fit your household's needs and tastes. Maintain variety and monitor expiration dates by rotating stock. With the right storage methods, most shelf-stable foods last years.
What should I prepare for food storage?
When starting your food storage as a beginner prepper, it's important to prepare supplies that will last for at least three days in an emergency situation. Here are some tips:
Ready-to-Eat Canned and Non-Perishable Foods
Stock up on ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables as well as other non-perishable foods like granola bars, peanut butter, crackers, etc. These foods don't require any refrigeration or preparation, making them handy during a power outage or if you need to evacuate quickly.
Prioritize nutritious options like canned salmon, beans, vegetables, and low-sodium soup. You'll also want to include comfort foods like canned ravioli or chili to help boost morale.
Hydration and Other Essentials
Round out your 3-day food supply with canned or powdered juices and milk, which provide vital hydration. Don't forget essentials like sugar, salt, pepper, a manual can opener, and eating utensils.
If using powdered milk or drinks, set aside additional water for mixing. The general recommendation is to store 1 gallon of water per person per day.
High-Calorie Foods
During an emergency, your body will burn more calories dealing with stress. Stock up on high-energy foods like peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, and trail mix. These compact foods pack a lot of calories to keep your energy levels up.
Rotate and eat the perishable items from your emergency food supply and replenish them regularly to ensure nothing expires or goes bad. With some advance planning, you'll be ready to handle a short-term emergency with confidence.
What is in a preppers pantry?
A well-stocked prepper's pantry is essential for emergency preparedness. Having a good supply of non-perishable foods and other essential items on hand will help you withstand disruptions to normal supply chains during disasters or crises.
Here is a basic list of recommended items to include in your prepper's pantry:
- Grains: Whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, pasta, rice (white and brown), quinoa, crackers
- Beans and legumes: Dried beans, lentils, split peas
- Canned/jarred foods: Canned vegetables, fruits, soups, meats, chili, tuna, salmon, peanut butter, jams, pasta sauce
- Oils and fats: Vegetable oil, olive oil, coconut oil, nuts, seeds
- Dairy: Powdered milk, shelf-stable milk
- Sweeteners: Sugar, honey, maple syrup
- Drinks: Bottled water, coffee, tea, powdered sports drinks
- Spices and seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic, onion, chili powder, dried herbs
When building your prepper's pantry, focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable items that have a long shelf life. Make sure to store foods properly and check expiration dates regularly. Rotate your stock to use older items first and replace them with fresh supplies. Having at least a 3-month supply is recommended.
With the right selection of hearty, wholesome foods in your prepper's pantry, you can nourish your family during any extended emergency situation.
What is the best foods to store for doomsday?
When building an emergency food supply, it's important to focus on shelf-stable foods that provide nutrients and calories. Some good options to consider stockpiling include:
- Peanut butter - High in protein, healthy fats, and calories. Choose natural peanut butter which requires no refrigeration.
- Whole wheat crackers - Provide carbs and fiber. Look for low/no sodium options and partner with peanut butter for protein.
- Nuts and trail mixes - Great sources of protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Prioritize unsalted nuts to avoid excess sodium.
- Cereal (non-perishable) - Opt for whole grain cereals high in fiber. Pair with shelf-stable milk or powdered milk.
- Granola bars - Offer carbs for energy plus vitamins and minerals. Seek soft granola bars over crunchy to extend shelf life.
- Dried fruits - Raisins, apricots etc provide fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. Choose unsweetened varieties without added sugars.
- Canned proteins - Tuna, salmon, chicken and turkey supply protein needed for survival. Seek low-sodium options packed in water.
- Canned vegetables - Green beans, carrots and peas offer key vitamins and minerals when fresh isn't possible. Pick low-sodium varieties.
When building your doomsday pantry, focus on nutrient-dense non-perishable foods that don't require refrigeration. Check expiration dates and create a rotation system to keep supplies fresh. Properly stored, these foods can sustain you for months or longer in an emergency.
Creating and Storing an Emergency Water Supply
Water is the most essential supply to store for emergency preparedness. When planning your water storage, consider the following:
Determining Daily Water Requirements
To determine how much water your household needs:
- Recommend storing 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. This equates to 7 gallons per person per week.
- Increase storage if you anticipate high temperatures or increased physical activity requiring more hydration.
- Have at least a 2 week supply to start, working up to 3 months or more over time.
Selecting and Preparing Water Containers
When selecting water containers:
- Use food grade plastic containers with tight sealing lids. Ensure they did not previously store non-food items.
- Thoroughly clean containers with dish soap and water before filling.
- Fill containers with tap or bottled water. Leave 2 inches of airspace to allow for expansion if temperatures drop below freezing.
Tips for Water Rotation and Refreshing
To keep your water fresh:
- Label all containers with fill date and rotate stock every 6 months.
- Occasionally empty, clean, and refill containers.
- Add water purification tablets every few years to kill any bacteria.
Storing emergency water is vital for survival preparedness. Start with a 2 week supply and build up your reserves over time. Routinely rotate and refresh your stock to ensure it's potable when needed.
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Top 10 Survival Foods to Include in Your Prepping Food Storage List
Highlighting the best food storage items to prioritize, this section will provide a curated list of foods that last a long time without refrigeration.
Nutrient-Dense Canned Varieties
Canned foods like beans, tomatoes, salmon, and tuna provide important nutrients and can last for years when properly stored. Opt for low-sodium varieties when possible. Canned fruits packed in juice rather than syrup have less added sugar.
Properly Stored Grains and Legumes
Rice, beans, lentils, oats, and other grains can be kept in airtight containers in a cool, dry place for up to 30 years. Using oxygen absorbers helps extend shelf life. Make sure to check expiration dates and watch for signs of spoilage.
Essential Proteins: Canned and Dried Options
Canned meats, fish, and poultry provide protein and can last 2-5 years when stored properly. Jerky, nuts, seeds, and nut butters are also great sources. Rotate stock and watch expiration dates.
Long-Lasting Fruits and Vegetables
Dehydrated and freeze-dried fruits and vegetables retain nutrients for years when sealed from moisture and oxygen. Canned produce can also last 2-5 years. Prioritize versatile items like carrots, potatoes, onions, and apples.
When building your emergency food supply, focus on nutrient-dense and non-perishable items that meet a variety of nutritional needs. Properly store items in airtight, waterproof containers and routinely check for spoilage. Rotate stock to use older items first. Having 6 months to 1 year of food storage is recommended for preppers.
Prepping Food Storage List for 1 Year: A Comprehensive Guide
When building an emergency food supply to last an entire year, it's important to store a variety of nutrient-dense foods that will provide balanced nutrition. Here are some tips for key food groups to include:
Grains and Flours: The Foundation of Your Food Storage
Grains like rice, wheat, oats, corn and barley are an essential base for a food storage plan. They are affordable, have a long shelf-life, and provide carbohydrates for energy. Consider storing:
- White rice: lasts up to 30 years if stored properly. Opt for low-sodium varieties.
- Whole grains: store in airtight containers and use within 6 months.
- Flour: store white flour for up to 10 years, whole wheat for up to 5 years. Store in food grade buckets.
Proteins: Diversifying Your Sources
In addition to grains, be sure to store a variety of protein sources like beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and canned meats. Great options include:
- Canned beans: store up to 5 years, opt for low-sodium
- Nuts and seeds: high in protein and healthy fats. Store in cool, dark place.
- Canned salmon, tuna, chicken: store up to 2-5 years.
Rotate and eat oldest proteins first and replace with new stock.
Vegetables and Fruits: Preserving Vitamins and Minerals
Round out your food supply with canned or dehydrated fruits and vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Canned vegetables and fruits last 2-5 years. Choose items packed in their own juice.
- Dehydrate vegetables like carrots, peppers, tomatoes. Vacuum seal and store.
Fats and Oils: Ensuring Adequate Caloric Intake
Don't forget healthy fats for additional calories and nutrient absorption. Store oils like vegetable, olive or coconut oil up to 2 years. Consider storing butter and lard as well if kept cool.
Be sure to take inventory and continually replace items in your food storage, donating items close to expiration to local food banks. Maintaining a balanced, year-long supply takes diligence, but brings great peace of mind.
Refrigerator and Food Safety: Keeping Foods Fresh and Safe
Properly storing food is crucial for maintaining freshness and preventing spoilage or foodborne illnesses. This guide outlines best practices for refrigerator organization, temperature regulation, and keeping perishables safe during power outages.
Safe Refrigerator Temperature Settings
Keeping your refrigerator at the right temperature helps ensure food safety. According to the FDA Food Code, refrigerators should be kept between 34-40°F.
- Use an appliance thermometer to monitor the temperature. Place the thermometer on a middle shelf.
- Allow air to circulate freely inside the refrigerator. Avoid overcrowding.
- Check and clean refrigerator coils every 6 months for maximum efficiency.
Ways to Keep Bagged Salad and Perishables Fresh
It's easy to waste leafy greens and other perishables that go bad quickly. Here are some storage tips:
- Store bagged salads and greens in the high-humidity crisper drawer.
- Wrap greens loosely in paper towels before storing in bags or containers. This absorbs excess moisture.
- Cherry tomatoes, berries, and herbs keep best stored in shallow containers lined with paper towels.
- Check expiration dates and plan meals to use items before they spoil.
Food Safety During Power Outages
Losing power doesn't have to create a food safety risk if you're prepared.
- Track refrigerator temperature with an appliance thermometer. Toss perishables if temps exceed 40°F for over 2 hours.
- Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain cold air.
- Use coolers with ice packs if it looks like the outage will be extended. Transfer perishables to maintain safe temperatures.
- Never taste food that smells or looks questionable to determine safety. When in doubt, throw it out.
Following proper refrigerator organization, temperature guidelines, and power outage food safety tips helps avoid wasting food and prevent foodborne illnesses.
Practical Food Storage Solutions for Preppers
Prepping requires having adequate food storage in place for emergency situations. However, finding space to store months' worth of food can be a challenge. Using some practical storage solutions can help maximize your available storage space.
Maximizing Pantry Space with Efficient Storage Solutions
When prepping your food storage, it's important to organize items efficiently to make the most of your pantry space. Here are some tips:
- Use clear plastic bins to categorize and neatly stack foods. Label bins by food type or expiration date.
- Install extra shelving units and vertical organizers to double your storage space.
- Store heavy items like cans on lower shelves and lightweight items up high.
- Use space-saving techniques like under-bed storage containers.
Getting creative with vertical and modular storage solutions can help you store more prepping food in a small pantry area.
Using Mylar Bags and Oxygen Absorbers for Long-Term Storage
Mylar bags paired with oxygen absorbers are a great way to safely store bulk foods like rice, beans, and grains for years. Here's how they work:
- Mylar bags create an airtight barrier that protects against moisture, insects, and rodents.
- Oxygen absorbers remove oxygen from the sealed bag to prevent spoilage.
- When used properly, foods can last up to 25+ years in Mylar with oxygen absorbers.
To get started, purchase high-quality Mylar bags, oxygen absorbers, and an iron to seal the bags airtight after filling. Be sure to label each bag with the contents and date before storing.
The Role of 5-Gallon Buckets in Prepping Food Storage
5-gallon food grade buckets are ideal for protecting bulk ingredients like flour, sugar, and oats from pests, rodents, and excess moisture. Their sturdy design stacks easily, maximizing storage space.
To use buckets effectively for long term food storage:
- Fill each bucket to the top to limit extra oxygen.
- Use gamma seal lids for easy access without tools.
- Stack buckets 2-3 high on shelves to save floor space.
- Label and date buckets and store in cool, dark place.
Following proper storage methods for your food is key to ensuring it lasts as long as possible when prepping.
Maintaining Your Prepping Food Storage List: Inventory and Rotation
Understanding the importance of inventory management and the first-in-first-out (FIFO) method to ensure your emergency food supply remains fresh and usable.
Tracking Expiration Dates and Consuming Wisely
It's important to keep track of expiration dates on all the items in your food storage so you can use them before they expire. Here are some tips:
- Create an inventory list that includes expiration dates. Update it every time you add new items.
- Store foods with the earliest expiration dates in front so they get used first.
- Check dates about once a month and pull items getting close to expiring to the front of the storage area to use soon.
- Consider an app like Out of Milk to help track expiration dates.
- When pulling food for meals, check dates and use oldest first.
Eat stored foods before expiration and replenish your stock to keep turnover going. Properly stored, unopened canned goods can safely be consumed for 1-2 years past date.
Implementing a FIFO System in Your Food Storage
Using a first-in-first-out (FIFO) rotation system helps ensure you consistently cycle through and refresh your food supply. Here's how to implement it:
- Label food containers with purchase/storage dates.
- Keep a detailed inventory list noting dates and quantities.
- Store new items behind existing ones with earlier dates.
- When retrieving food, always use oldest first based on date.
- Remove expired items immediately and replenish supply.
Following this method, you’ll efficiently consume older inventory and maintain fresher reserves.
Regular Inventory Checks and Updates
- Take a full inventory every 6 months, checking:
- Expiration dates
- Storage conditions (insect/rodent damage, leaks, etc)
- Quantities on hand
- Update inventory list accordingly.
- Identify items to pull forward for imminent use.
- Assess consumption rate and purchase additional quantities as needed.
Doing thorough periodic inventories allows you to keep tabs on your reserves and ensure nothing is languishing or deteriorating. It’s key for maintaining reliability of your food storage.
Conclusion: Solidifying Your Prepping Food Storage Plan
When building an emergency food supply, having a comprehensive prepping food storage list is key for beginners. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can create a well-stocked pantry tailored to your family's unique needs.
Here are some final takeaways:
- Prioritize shelf-stable foods with a long shelf life. Canned goods, grains, dried beans, nuts, and certain spices will store for years if properly packaged.
- Build variety into your supply. In an extended emergency, you'll need different nutrients to stay healthy. Have proteins, fruits, vegetables, carbs, fats/oils, and flavorings on hand.
- Store what you eat and eat what you store. Rotate through foods using a "first in, first out" system to prevent waste from expiration.
- Properly store foods to maximize freshness. Use airtight containers, oxygen absorbers, cool & dry areas, etc.
- Account for water needs with bottled water and water filters/purifiers. Plan for at least one gallon per person per day.
- Tailor your preps to your family's tastes and needs. Include any necessary specialty items.
- Take inventory every 6 months and replace expired or opened foods. Mark purchase dates on containers with a marker.
Following these guidelines will ensure you build a well-rounded, sustainable food supply that truly meets your family's disaster preparedness needs. Stay focused on the essentials for your situation, regularly re-evaluate your preps, and continue expanding your emergency pantry over time. With some dedication, you'll gain invaluable peace of mind knowing you can nourish your loved ones if faced with an extended crisis.
