How can you make sure you have a continuous supply of wholesome food in the event of an emergency? That’s a question many people are asking themselves these days, and for good reason. Natural disasters, pandemics, social unrest, and other unforeseen events can all lead to disruptions in our regular access to food. Having an extended food supply that you can rely on when such an event occurs is crucial for maintaining your well-being and quality of life during trying times. Whether you live in hurricane or earthquake country, have special dietary needs, or just want to be as self-sufficient as possible, keeping plenty of long lasting food on hand is the key to staying well fed when the chips are down. The following guide will help you learn about different types of foods that are most likely to survive a disruptive event and how you can stock up on them before it’s too late.
Basics of Building a Long-Term Food Supply
A long-term food supply is any set of food items that can be stored for long periods of time without losing nutritional value or becoming unsafe to eat. This can include fresh food, canned food, and dried food, depending on the item. These items should be part of your emergency kit, along with water and other essentials that might be interrupted by a disaster. Most people keep a short-term food supply in addition to a long-term food supply. A short-term food supply consists of food that spoils quickly and isn’t suitable for long-term storage, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats. The long-term food supply, on the other hand, consists of foods that can last for months or years at a time. They are often non-perishable foods packed in cans and jars, or dried foods preserved using dehydration (sun or electric drying).
Beans
Beans are nature’s perfect food. They’re high in fibre, protein, and a whole host of nutrients. They can be eaten in a variety of ways, including being mashed and baked as a side dish or being used in soups and stews. Beans have been a staple food source for humans for thousands of years, and they’re still just as relevant today. Whether you’re looking to put together a long-term food supply or just stock up on a few weeks’ worth of meals, dried beans are a good choice. They’re more expensive than other items, but they’re also one of the most nutritious and long-lasting foods you can buy. If you want to store dried beans for long-term use, make sure you purchase them in large bags and keep them in airtight containers away from light. Beans can last for several years under the right conditions.
Dry Goods
Dried beans are great, but what about other staple foods that can last a lot longer? Well, dried grains like wheat and oats, for example, can be stored for years. Dried grains are extremely inexpensive and can be used in a variety of ways, including being cooked into porridge or baked into bread. They’re a great staple item to have on hand. To store dried grains, make sure they’re free of pests and insects, then store them in sealed bags in a dry, cool place. They should last for years this way. Dried fruits can also be stored for long periods of time. Apricots and dates are some of the best options, with their taste improving over time. They are extremely energy-dense and can be used to make baked goods, oatmeal, and trail mix. They’re also a good source of fibre and nutrients.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh vegetables are great to keep on hand for a wide variety of reasons. They’re loaded with vitamins and minerals, they can be eaten raw or cooked, and they’re extremely versatile. Fresh fruits also have a wide variety of uses and are packed with vitamins and minerals. Both fresh vegetables and fresh fruits can be kept on hand for a few months if kept chilled, or you can preserve them for up to a year for longer-term storage. To store fresh fruits and vegetables, keep them in a cold storage unit or in a dark, cool place. If you’re putting them in the fridge, make sure they’re in airtight containers so they don’t spoil.
Meats and Proteins
Meat is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, but it can also be extremely costly. If you want to stock up on meats like canned tuna, canned meats like Spam, or freeze-dried meats, make sure you have a steady source of income. Prices are likely to rise as demand increases. You can also freeze-dry meats like beef, poultry, and other red meats to extend their lifespan. Freeze-dried meats can be eaten raw or cooked, and they’re an excellent supplement for long-term food supplies.
Conclusion
Long-term food supplies are important for any household, regardless of their situation. They’re a great way to save money but also to ensure that you always have a steady supply of healthy food. You can customize this type of food storage according to your own needs and budget, but the items above are a good place to start.
