Prepping Long Term Food Storage Essentials

When it comes to prepping long term food storage, most will agree that having a sustainable food supply is crucial for emergency preparedness.

Luckily, with the right strategies and essential items, you can create nutritious, long-lasting meals to feed your family when stores are scarce.

In this article, you'll discover the best practices for building up your food stockpile. From storage methods to meal planning, inventory management and more, you'll get a comprehensive guide to prepping the key food staples your household needs.

Introduction to Prepping Essentials for Sustainable Food Storage

Prepping long term food storage is an important part of emergency preparedness and self-reliance. Having a stockpile of non-perishable food allows you to be ready for disasters, supply chain issues, or other emergencies that may disrupt normal access to food. It also saves money by buying in bulk. The key is storing food properly and rotating stock to maintain freshness and nutritional value over time.

Defining Long Term Food Storage

Long term food storage refers to stockpiling shelf-stable foods that can last for extended periods without refrigeration. The goal is to have at least a 3-6 month supply available. Properly stored non-perishables like grains, beans, canned goods, and some freeze-dried meals can remain edible for years. The key is keeping food in airtight containers and using products like oxygen absorbers to prevent spoilage.

Benefits of a Sustainable Food Supply

Having your own long term food reserves provides many advantages:

Self-reliance - You don't have to depend on grocery stores being open and stocked. You'll have food available if you lose income or access to shops.
Cost savings - Buying bulk dry goods and canned items when on sale allows you to get lower prices per pound/unit.
Emergency preparedness - Natural disasters, extended power outages, pandemics, and other crises can disrupt food availability. Having your own stockpile is wise.

The bottom line is that prepping a sustainable supply of long term storable food increases resilience and preparedness for unpredictable events. It also saves money and moves you towards greater self-sufficiency.

What's the best way to store food long term?

When it comes to long term food storage, the key is keeping your food dry, dark, and cool. Here are some best practices:

Store foods in airtight containers like plastic buckets, mylar bags, or PETE bottles. Make sure to use oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen and prevent spoilage.
Glass jars make great storage containers if stored properly. Use jars with rubber gaskets and metal lids. Store jars on shelves to prevent breakage and make inventory easier.
Opt for food grade plastic containers and lids whenever possible. Avoid containers that can leach chemicals into food over time.
Keep storage area cool, dark and dry. Temperature fluctuations and light exposure will reduce shelf life. Store off concrete floors and away from exterior walls or heat/AC vents.
Consider adding desiccants like diatomaceous earth or dry ice to absorb excess moisture, preventing mold growth.
Label everything with contents and date. Use oldest ingredients first based on First In, First Out method.
Inspect containers periodically for signs of spoilage like mold, rust, leaks or puffed lids. Discard anything questionable.

Properly storing dry goods in suitable long term containers will extend shelf life significantly. Just remember to keep things cool, dark and dry!

What is the best way to preserve food for long term storage?

When it comes to long term food storage, the key is keeping your food sealed and protected from oxygen, light, moisture, insects, and rodents. Here are some of the best practices for preserving dry goods and canned items for maximum freshness and longevity:

Dry Goods Storage

Store rice, beans, pasta, oats, flour, sugar, etc. in food-grade plastic buckets or #10 cans. Make sure they have gamma lids for easy access.
Use oxygen absorber packets to remove oxygen and prevent oxidation.
Store in a cool, dark place like a basement or cellar. Temperatures between 40°F and 70°F are ideal.
Use desiccant packets to control moisture and prevent mold growth.
Optional: You can add diatomaceous earth or dry ice to further deter pests.

Canned Goods Storage

Buy high quality canned goods and check that seals are intact.
Store in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard. Temperatures between 50°F and 70°F are recommended.
Rotate stock using the FIFO (first-in, first-out) method to use oldest cans first.
Try to use canned goods within 1-2 years for best quality.
Avoid temperature fluctuations that can degrade can integrity over time.

Proper storage containers, moisture and oxygen absorbers, cool temperatures, and rotation systems are key to keeping food fresh for years to come. With the right preservation methods, you can feel confident in having a sustainable food supply when needed.

What foods should I stockpile for prepping?

When building your long-term food storage, focus on nutrient-dense non-perishable foods with a long shelf life. Here are some of the most essential items to stockpile:

Proteins

Canned meats like chicken, tuna, salmon, and spam can last 2-5 years unopened. Choose pull-top cans that don't require a can opener.
Beans and legumes like black beans, kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas are packed with protein. Opt for dry beans you can cook yourself.
Nuts and seeds are calorie-dense. Store unsalted nuts in airtight containers and replace every year.

Fruits and Vegetables

Canned fruits and vegetables are convenient options with 5+ year shelf lives. Focus on nutritious choices like tomatoes, pumpkin, carrots, and pineapple.
Dried fruits and vegetables like raisins, apples, carrots, potatoes, and onions rehydrate well for cooking. Store in cool, dark places.

Grains

Rice, pasta, oats, and quinoa are inexpensive bulk grains with 10-30 year shelf lives when stored properly in airtight containers.
Crackers and cereal provide carbs and crunch. Check expiration dates and store in waterproof containers.

Dairy

Powdered milk or shelf-stable UHT milk boxes can last 6 months to 1 year unopened. Useful for cooking and baking.
Hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan last up to 10 years when frozen. Grated cheese and cheese powder have shorter shelf lives.

Be sure to store foods in a cool, dark place and regularly check containers for pests or spoilage. Integrating a variety of non-perishables into your long-term food storage provides balanced nutrition to sustain you in an emergency.

What is the longest lasting food for prepping?

When it comes to long term food storage for prepping, choosing foods with longevity is key. Some of the longest lasting foods to stockpile include:

Peanut Butter

An excellent source of protein and healthy fats, commercially processed peanut butter can last up to 3 years unopened. Look for natural peanut butters without hydrogenated oils. Store in a cool, dark place.

Whole-Wheat Crackers

Properly stored in an airtight container, whole-wheat crackers can last over a year past their expiration date. Choose crackers low in sugar and look for vacuum-packed varieties to extend freshness.

Nuts and Trail Mixes

High in nutrition and shelf-stable, most raw nuts and trail mixes store well for up to a year when kept cool and dry. Consider portioning mixes into mylar bags with oxygen absorbers for added longevity.

Cereal

Unpopened boxes of unsweetened whole grain and fortified cereals can last on the shelf for over a year. Be sure to check expiration dates and inspect packaging for damage or signs of insects/rodents.

Granola Bars

Look for granola and power bars without chocolate coatings or fruit fillings, as these shorten shelf life. When stored in airtight containers, most plain granola bars keep for about 9 months.

Dried Fruits

Dried fruits like apricots and raisins are packed with nutrients and store for up to a year when kept away from heat, light, and moisture. For added freshness, consider freezing portioned servings.

When stocking up on food for emergency situations, prioritize shelf-stable items with longer expiration dates, proper storage methods, and nutritional value. Rotate and replenish items as you go to build a sustainable, healthy food supply.

Strategizing Your Long Term Food Storage Plan

When creating a long term food storage plan, it's important to thoroughly assess your needs and available space first. Here are some tips:

Assessing Your Storage Space and Needs

Carefully measure potential storage areas like basements, garages, and pantries. Account for existing items already taking up space.
Consider your household size and realistic duration for your food supply. Most experts recommend a 3-6 month supply.
Take into account any dietary restrictions or nutritional requirements. Stocking a variety of food groups will help create balanced meals.

Creating a Nutritious and Sustainable Meal Plan

Build meal plans around versatile base ingredients like rice, beans, oats, and pasta that can be used in many recipes.
Incorporate sufficient fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats to meet daily nutritional needs. Canned and freeze-dried options work well.
Plan for ~2,000 calories per day per person. Calculate totals needed based on your household size and duration.
Create a rotation system, using and replacing food before expiration dates. This ensures freshness and avoids waste.

Selecting the Best Long-Term Food Staples

Prioritize non-perishable, high-calorie, and nutrient-dense options like whole grains, legumes, nuts, and canned fish.
Choose items with longer shelf lives like white rice (30+ years), wheat berries (30 years), and vegetable oils (2-3 years).
Consider ease of preparation with minimal water and cooking. For example, include dried beans, pasta, and dehydrated vegetables.

Bulk Food for Long-Term Storage: What to Consider

Purchase in quantity sizes like #10 cans, 5-gallon buckets, or mylar bags to maximize shelf life in a small space.
Ensure you have working knowledge to safely handle and prepare bulk items. For example, proper rehydration of dried goods.
Calculate ideal quantities based on daily calorie needs and meal planning. For example, ~400 lbs of wheat berries per adult for one year.

With some planning and forethought, you can create a nutritious, space-efficient, and budget-friendly long term food supply for your household's needs.

Effective Long Term Food Storage Methods

Long term food storage is essential for emergency preparedness. Having a sustainable food supply ensures you and your family will be fed in the event of a disaster or crisis. There are several effective methods for storing foods over an extended period while preserving nutrition, taste, and shelf life.

Freezing for Longevity and Nutrition

Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve foods long-term. The cold temperatures prevent spoilage by slowing down bacteria growth. To freeze properly:

Seal foods in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn.
Label containers with contents and freeze date. Rotate stock using oldest first.
Most foods last 6-12 months in the freezer. Lean meats, breads, and dairy tend to have shorter lifespans.
Thaw foods safely in the fridge overnight before using.

Correct freezing preserves both nutrition and taste. It can work for meats, vegetables, fruits, baked goods, and more.

Dehydrating Foods for Extended Shelf Life

Dehydrating removes moisture from foods, stopping bacteria growth and enzymatic reactions. With the water removed, dehydrated foods can be stored for much longer without spoiling.

Use a food dehydrator or oven to remove up to 95% of moisture.
Dehydrate fruits, vegetables, lean meats, yogurt, herbs and more.
Vacuum seal dehydrated foods in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. Stored properly, they can last over 20 years.
Rehydrate by simmering in broth, water or juice before eating.

Dehydrating food takes time but is very effective for extreme long term storage.

Vacuum Sealing for Optimal Preservation

Vacuum sealing involves removing air from storage containers to prevent oxidation and spoilage. It can extend shelf life for dried foods, freeze-dried meals, snacks, and more.

For best results, use a vacuum sealer machine to remove oxygen from Mylar bags, canning jars, and other containers. Vacuum sealed foods can last 5-10 times longer than non-vacuum packaging. Tips:

Use high-quality bags rated for long term storage. Look for multi-layer Mylar material.
Include oxygen absorbers in bags to fully remove oxygen.
Store sealed containers in a cool, dark place like a basement or cellar.

Vacuum sealing is easy with the right equipment and provides very effective long term food storage.

DIY Long Term Food Storage Techniques

You don’t need fancy equipment for decent food storage. Some simple DIY techniques can extend shelf life for months to years. These include:

Using food-grade plastic buckets or #10 cans for dry goods storage
Filling glass jars with canned produce and acidifying foods for room-temperature storage
Creating a root cellar for cool underground food storage
Building a food drying box from wood and screens
Curing meats with salt for preservation

Get creative with storage methods! Even basic techniques can preserve foods effectively.

Having a diverse storage plan is key for true food security. Use multiple storage methods like freezing, dehydrating, vacuum sealing, and DIY curing techniques to create a complete long term food supply.

Choosing the Best Containers for Long-Term Food Storage

When it comes to prepping long term food storage, selecting the right containers is crucial for keeping your food fresh and preserved. The ideal containers are durable, airtight, rodent-proof, and able to withstand temperature fluctuations. Here are some of the best options to consider:

The Role of #10 Cans in Food Preservation

#10 cans, also known as 5-gallon buckets, are a prepper's best friend when it comes to long term bulk food storage. These large metal cans create an impermeable barrier that prevents oxygen, moisture, insects, and rodents from getting in. The rigid structure also protects the contents from physical damage. From freeze-dried produce to grains, #10 cans are great for storing staples with a shelf life of up to 30 years.

Utilizing Plastic Buckets for Bulk Storage

For storing large quantities of foods like grains, beans, and rice, food-grade plastic buckets with tight lids are an economical option. Their durability and stacking capability allow efficient use of storage space. To prevent food spoilage, use oxygen absorbers inside the bucket before sealing. Plastic buckets keep contents pest-free and protected for 5-10 years.

Mylar Pouches: A Barrier Against Spoilage

Mylar pouches create an impermeable barrier that prevents oxygen and moisture from seeping in, making them ideal for long term storage of dried goods like beans, rice, oats, and pasta. With the added protection of oxygen absorbers, foods can last up to 20 years in mylar pouches without spoiling. The lightweight material allows easy stacking/organization.

Glass Jars and Glass Jar Storage Shelves

For storing foods like nuts, coffee, and dried fruit, glass jars allow you to easily see contents while preserving freshness if properly sealed. Glass jar storage shelves help organize while maximizing space. Just add oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen and an airtight lid to prevent moisture. With this method, most foods last 1-5 years.

Long Term Food Storage Containers with Lids

No matter what type of container is used, having a properly sealing lid is vital for preventing air exposure and locking in freshness. Lids should form an airtight seal. Preferred options are screw-on lids, push buttons, clamps, or gamma seal lids. Before sealing, add oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen and extend shelf life. With the right containers and lids, you can successfully store a sustainable food supply for long term emergencies.

Preserving Freshness with Additional Preservation Methods

Preppers seeking long term food storage need to consider additional preservation methods beyond simply storing foods in containers. Techniques like oxygen absorbers, DIY dry ice treatment, and desiccants can enhance freshness and extend storage life.

Oxygen Absorbers for Enhanced Longevity

Oxygen absorbers are small packets containing iron powder that actively absorb oxygen from inside containers. By removing oxygen, they prevent aerobic bacteria and mold growth, allowing foods to stay fresh for longer periods.

When using oxygen absorbers:

Select the proper size absorber for the container volume
Ensure containers are thoroughly clean and dry before packing
Quickly move food into container once absorber is exposed to air
Seal immediately to activate and maximize absorption

With an airtight seal, oxygen levels can decrease to less than 1% within days. Absorbers may last 1-2 years before becoming saturated.

Dry Ice Treatment Methods for Oxygen Removal

Dry ice can also be used as a DIY method to remove oxygen prior to long term storage. The process involves:

Place dry ice in bottom of storage container
Layer food inside, leaving headspace at top
Allow dry ice to sublimate and fill container with CO2 gas
Quickly seal once container is full to displace oxygen

The dry ice displaces oxygen as it transitions to gas. This protective blanket of CO2 prevents oxidation and aerobic bacteria growth. It's an easy technique preppers can replicate at home before storage.

Employing Desiccants Like Diatomaceous Earth

Desiccants help regulate moisture levels within containers. Silica gel packets are common, but diatomaceous earth works well for food storage.

Sprinkling a thin layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth at the bottom of containers absorbs condensation and moisture to prevent sogginess. Its sharp silica particles also deter pests from contaminating stored goods.

When using desiccants:

Monitor food containers for moisture buildup
Replace desiccant material as needed over time
Ensure proper resealing after opening containers

Long Term Food Storage Bags: Advantages and Usage

Specialized food storage bags create an additional barrier against oxygen, light, moisture, and pests. Benefits include:

Multi-layer construction with moisture barrier
Block up to 100% of UV rays to avoid nutrient degradation
Resealable zip closure to maintain freshness after opening
Thick durable material resists punctures

To maximize effectiveness:

Press out excess air before sealing
Store away from light sources
Inspect periodically for holes/tears
Use smaller bags to limit air exposure

Following proper techniques for oxygen absorbers, dry ice, desiccants, and storage bags boosts preservation success.

Inventory Management for Long Term Food Storage

Properly managing your long term food storage is key to ensuring you have a sustainable food supply when needed. Here are some tips for organizing, tracking, and maintaining your inventory.

Labeling and Tracking: Organizing Your Food Storage

When storing food for the long term, be sure to clearly label all containers with:

Contents
Pack or purchase date
Expiration or best by date
Storage method (freeze, no freeze etc.)

Labeling allows you to easily identify foods and track expiration dates. Here are some good methods:

Use a permanent marker directly on plastic buckets and bottles.
Print neat labels for bags, pouches, and glass jars.
Maintain an inventory list detailing all items, dates, and storage locations. Review and update it with each new purchase.

Implementing a First In, First Out System

To avoid waste, use a FIFO (First In, First Out) system when accessing your food stores. This means rotating items, and always using up older products before newer ones. Tips:

Date labels make this easy. Always pull items with earliest dates first.
When buying new items, place them behind older ones already in storage.
Periodically shuffle inventory to keep rotation flowing.

Regular Inventory Checks: Staying on Top of Your Storage

Check stored foods at least every 3 months for signs of spoilage, damage, or expiration. This helps avoid losing precious reserves.

Inspect containers and packaging for punctures, leaks, swelling etc.
Watch for visible mold, off odors, or other red flags.
Remove and replace expired or compromised items immediately.

Dry Food Storage Containers: Selection and Maintenance

Choosing suitable storage containers is also key for longevity. Consider:

5+ gallon plastic buckets with tight lids protect dry goods extremely well.
Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers create an air-free environment inside buckets to deter pests and prevent staleness.
PETE plastic bottles and glass Mason jars also store dry items reliably.

Regularly check containers for cracks, warping, rust, or other damage that ruins integrity or allows air and moisture to enter. Replace compromised containers immediately to keep contents preserved at peak quality.

Conclusion: Summarizing Food Storage Essentials

When it comes to long term food storage for prepping, there are a few key essentials to keep in mind:

Versatile Foods

Focus on shelf-stable foods that are versatile and can be used in many recipes. This includes grains like rice, beans, pasta, oats.
Powdered milk, eggs, and butter can help round out meals.
Include comfort foods like coffee, chocolate, spices to boost morale.

Proper Storage Methods

Use oxygen absorbers and vacuum sealing to remove oxygen and prevent spoilage.
Store in food-grade plastic buckets or mylar bags. Use #10 cans for very long term storage.
Glass jars work well for some items but be mindful of breakage over time.

Taking Inventory

Maintain an inventory to track expiration dates and rotate stock as needed.
Set reminder alerts to check stock and replenish important staples before they expire.

The keys to success are using proven storage methods, choosing versatile ingredients, tracking your supply, and rotating stock. With some planning upfront, you can maintain a sustainable food source for emergency preparedness.