How to Survive a Rice Shortage

Even the possibility of a rice shortage is frightening considering that nearly 3 billion people worldwide depend on rice as the main staple of their diet. In the U.S., people eat more wheat and corn than rice. However, Asian-Americans and those with Celiac Disease are among those who depend on rice as a main food in their diet. A rice shortage will effect many people, and already people are stocking up for the possibility.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 

   Determine if your country is a net exporter or importer of rice. If you fall into the first category, exporter, you are less likely to be affected by a rice shortage. The U.S. exports about half the rice it grows, while Saudi Arabia, the Philippines and Nigeria all rely heavily on imported rice to meet their needs.

2. Find out if your country is responding to the rice shortage. Asia has already limited rice exports in order to ensure domestic demand is met. It's quite possible that the U.S. could follow suit. If your country limits exports, and experiences a good crop year, expect a good domestic supply of rice.

3. 

   Stock up on rice while it's available, but don't buy more than your family can use. If you go to Costco to stock up on rice, just take what you really need and leave some on the shelf for your neighbors.

4. 

   Try other grains and starches. Some have dubbed 2008-2009 the "Year of the Potato" in the hopes that those facing a rice shortage will turn to the fast-growing potato to meet their food needs.

5. 

   Learn how to prepare wheat via soaking and sprouting to make it more digestible. Some people with slight wheat intolerances can eat properly prepared whole grains.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider building up a year's supply of food as a habit. Emergency preparedness can really pay off.
• Learn about long term food storage and devise a plan that's right for your family and situation.
• Remember charity. There are many who are unprepared for food shortages; help them if times get tough.

Resources

• How to Stock a Natural Food Pantry
• Frugal Homesteading Blog
• Gardening When It Counts: Growing Food in Hard Times
• Ultimate Family Preparedness Pak

[MIHealthCoach]

on 5/29/2008 Brown rice, yum!

[amylaine]

on 4/29/2008 Wow, I guess I really had no clue. I use rice on a daily basis, I better stock up little. The way prices will be increasing, it's probably a good idea any way.

[GreenGardenChic]

on 4/25/2008 What! Rice shortage? Oh-no, I'll have to stock up. Thanks for the update.