If an emergency strikes, will your family have enough food and water to survive? Long term food storage helps a family stock up on the basics. While emergency planning agencies suggest having a three-day supply per person available, having a larger supply available will help in case of long-term emergencies. Plus, depending on the nature of the crisis, you may need to share emergency food rations with extended family members or neighbors.
Plan a Strategy
Before beginning to store food for the long haul, it's important to establish a plan. Determine how much useful food you need to store and the cost of purchasing and storing these items. A one-year supply should suffice, but stocking for a longer period of time is acceptable. Stock canned and dried goods. Check expiration dates and rotate items.
Begin with the Basics
Find low-priced essentials that are easy to find. Whole grains, rice, and beans are available in bulk at many stores. These whole grains provide filling nutrients and are the basis for many recipes. Dried milk, beef bouillon, and pasta are low-cost alternatives that store easily. Dry package mixes, primarily pasta or rice mixes, can be purchased in grocery stores.
Add Meat
Dried and frozen meats need to be stored. Purchasing meat in bulk quantities, such as a quarter or side of beef or pork, saves money and provides a stockpile of meat.
Savor the Oil and Spice
Keep a supply of storable fats on hands. Olive oil and coconut oil have a decent shelf life. Salt and pepper add flavor to foods and can be stored easily.
Boost Energy
Dried foods, including dried fruits, are a good source of energy. Peanut butter provides protein and lasts a long time on the shelf.
Drink Water
Maintaining a supply of drinking water can be tricky. Large jugs of water can be purchased at the grocery store. How much is necessary? Calculate one gallon per person per day.
Storing food for the long term is helpful when emergencies strike. Useful food items and water serve as the basis of a food stockpile. Planning what your family needs should be the first step in determining what items are necessary.
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