How to Start Long Term Food Storage

In lean times, long term food storage makes sense. In case of a glitch in the supply chain, a failed crop or financial turmoil, those with adequate food storage supplies will weather a storm more comfortably than those who are not prepared. Rising grocery prices are one sign that food shortages may be ahead. here's how to get ahead of the curve and stock up for your family.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 

   Begin with the basics, the lowest-cost essentials that are simple to acquire and will help sustain you in times of need. These items, including whole grains, rice and beans, are the bulk of many long term food storage larders. Whole grains and brown rice are superior because they are packed with nutrients, unlike their counterparts.

2. 

   Add dried and frozen meats, as well as fish and poultry, to your stockpile. Try buying your beef by the side or quarter from a local butcher and you will save considerably.

3. 

   Make sure you have an adequate amount of store-able fats, such as olive oil and coconut oil, for inclusion in your pantry.

4. 

   Include dried fruit, peanut butter and other snacks and energy-boosting foods.

5. 

   Acquire food storage containers, such as food-grade plastic pails with gamma seal lids. These are excellent for whole grains, non perishable foods and emergency supplies such as matches, candles and lanterns. As you purchase survival foods and bulk items, store them properly to avoid waste.

6. 

   Find the best sources for price, quality and selection for the food items you need. Check food club stores, local food co-ops, and bulk distributors as well as your grocery store.

Tips & Warnings

• The key is to buy food that you eat and eat the oldest items first, replenishing your stash as you go. This way, you won't throw out unused food and you will learn how to cook and enjoy survival food.

Resources

• Ultimate Family Preparedness Pak
• Bulk Coconut Oil and other Natural Foods at Wilderness Family Naturals
• Gardening When It Counts: Growing Food in Hard Times
• Emergency Food Storage & Survival
• Stocking a Natural Food Pantry
• Frugal Homesteading Blog

[saralancaster]

on 7/29/2009 Glad you mentioned gamma sealed lids. That's something I didn't know about before

[wordstock]

on 1/11/2009 Good tips and resources. I will have to buy the books.

[Gracie1402]

on 5/7/2008 very interesting article.

[amylaine]

on 4/29/2008 This is great information and I believe a must have with a family.