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If there is a sudden food shortage, grocery store shelves can be stripped bare within hours. Get one step ahead by stocking your pantry with these essential items to ensure you have food on your table until supplies return to normal.
1. Rice
Did you know white rice can last up to 30 years if stored in an airtight container? Rice is a store cupboard stable that can be used to create a versatile range of hunger-beating meals.
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2. Canned Meats
Canned meats may not be my favorite foodstuff, but they provide a valuable source of protein that can be used in a variety of dishes. Canned chicken, beef, and turkey are shelf-stable for several years when stored in a cool, dark pantry.
3. Shelf-Stable Milk
In times of food shortages, fresh milk is often hard to find. UHT milk can be stored for several months without refrigeration, while powdered milk can last even longer when kept in a sealed container.
4. Canned Vegetables
Canned vegetables such as
5. Pasta
Pasta is an easy-to-cook carbohydrate that can be paired with many different sauces, making it a staple emergency foodstuff. Most dried pasta can be stored for up to two years in a cool, dry place.
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6. Flour
In the event of a food shortage, baked goods are one of the first things in short supply. And we’re not just talking bread here – pancakes, waffles, muffins, cakes, and pizza all need flour too! Stock up on a range of different flours to ensure your family doesn’t have to go without their favorite bakery snacks.
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7. Sugar & Honey
Sugar and honey both have an extremely long shelf life, as proved by the fact that archeologists found a 3000-year-old in Tutankhamun’s tomb which was still edible! Ensure your pantry is well stocked with sugar and honey for baking, sweetening, and making preserves.
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8. Canned Fish
Canned fish such as tuna, salmon, and sardines are excellent protein and healthy fats sources. When combined with dried goods such as pasta and tuna, canned fish can be used to make a variety of delicious meals.
9. Cooking Oils
Cooking oils are a useful source of energy and are essential for cooking and baking. Olive oil and canola oil can last up to two years if stored in a cool, dark place, while coconut oil can last even longer.
10. Tomato Products
Canned tomatoes and tomato paste can be used to add flavor and richness to sauces, soups, and stews.
11. Salt
Salt is not only used for seasoning, it is also the key ingredient in many food preservation methods. Salt never goes bad – store it in a dry place to prevent clumping, and it will last indefinitely.
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12. Powdered Eggs
Powdered eggs are a good source of protein and nutrients. They can be used in baking or rehydrated for scrambled eggs. This pantry essential has a long shelf life when kept in a sealed container, making it ideal for periods when fresh eggs are scarce.
13. Dried Beans
Dried beans are a rich source of protein and fiber and have a long shelf life of up to 2-3 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. My favorites are black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans, but there are many more types to choose from.
14. Bouillon Cubes or Powder
During periods of food shortages, your daily diet might become somewhat repetitive. Ensure you have a good supply of bouillon cubes or powder on hand to add flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes.
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15. Dried Fruits
Dried fruits such as raisins, apricots, and cranberries are nutrient-dense and have a long shelf life. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh for over a year.
16. Butter and Margarine
Both butter and margarine can be frozen to extend their shelf life. Butter can last up to a year in the freezer, while margarine can last even longer.
17. Lentils
Lentils are another excellent source of protein and fiber that cook relatively quickly compared to other dried beans. They have a shelf life of 1-2 years when kept in a sealed container in a cool, dry place, and can be used in soups, stews, and salads.
18. Popcorn
Snacks are not normally a priority when planning for food shortages, but a simple pack of popping corn can be stored for up to a year in an airtight container. This healthy snack option takes up less space than potato chips and can be freshly made in a matter of minutes.
19. Coffee & Tea
If you can’t function without your daily dose of caffeine in the morning, make sure to have a good stock of tea or coffee in the pantry. These items can be hard to replace in times of food shortages, but herbal teas and cold drinks make good alternatives.
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20. Water
Speaking of drinks, if there is a concern that your water supply might be compromised it is a good idea to stock up on bottled water. Store bottled water in a cool, dark place, and rotate your stock every six months to ensure freshness.
21. Couscous & Quinoa
Add some couscous and quinoa to your shopping list to break up the monotony of rice and pasta dishes. These whole grains are quick and easy to cook and are a great source of protein.
22. Chickpeas
Don’t underestimate the versatility of chickpeas – not only can they be added to curries and stews, but they are also the key ingredient in recipes such as houmous and veggie burgers.
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23. Chocolate
While chocolate isn’t exactly an ‘essential’ foodstuff, it is a great source of energy and can be stored for up to two years in a cool, dry place. Have a few bars of your favorite chocolate stashed away in your emergency food supply!
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Canning the food you harvest is an excellent way to boost your self-reliance. Canning is one method for preserving food from the garden season to the last year-round. If you are new to canning, this article will help you learn about the methods, resources, and equipment you will need to start canning at home.
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