Ideal Foods for Home Storage

When planning food storage for an emergency, it's important to find out which foods will keep the best, and which ones will provide you with the nutrients needed to survive and thrive in an emergency. The best food storage items are those that contain low or no moisture and can be stored for several years before being rotated out and replaced with new food items. Does this Spark an idea?

Dry Beans

With a long shelf life, dry beans also pack a nutritional punch when it comes to food storage items. Dry black beans, white beans and red beans can last up to 8 years before its time to rotate them. Beans are high in protein and fiber, as well as essential amino acids. To rehydrate, simply soak the beans in water--about 3 cups for every 1 cup of dried beans. Cover and let the beans soak overnight until they become rehydrated.

Wheat

Wheat grains can be ground into flour, cracked for a hot cereal and even grown as sprouts. Wheat bran has vitamins A, C and E, as well as calcium and iron. When packed in an airtight and watertight container, wheat can be kept in a food storage unit for more than 20 years. When storing wheat, be sure to keep a hand grinder that will help you convert the grains into usable flour.

Powdered Milk

When packaged right, powdered milk can last for up to 20 years, and provides much needed protein, calcium and vitamin D. Most powdered milk is sold in boxes at retail stores, but in order to get the long shelf life, the milk must be repackaged into airtight containers, such as sealed 10 cans or in plastic containers.

Dehydrated Fruits and Vegetables

From carrots and potatoes to apples and peaches, dehydrated fruits and vegetables prepared by food storage companies offer at least a 10-year shelf life as long as they are stored in a cool, dark location. Dehydrated fruits and veggies can be reconstituted simply with water and will provide vitamins A, B, C and E, as well as key minerals important to a healthy diet.

Water

Although it is technically not a food, drinkable water is crucial to any long-term emergency food storage program. Fortunately, it's easy to store water in the event of a disrupted or polluted supply. At least a gallon of water per person per day should be set aside and stored in food-grade plastic or glass containers. Empty 2-liter soda bottles are one example of a good water storage container. Milk cartons and plastic bottles should not be used, as the plastic is a different grade and will break down over time. Water should be rotated every 12 months.