Learning how to store food is something you can add to your already-impressive list of survival skills, and helps ensure you won’t, you know, die in the event of an emergency. Check out a few excellent food storage tips to get your started…those berries won’t store themselves, you know…..
The Right Storage Space
Food is best stored in quality containers that allow only minimum exposure to air, moisture, heat, and light. Your basement is an excellent bet so long it’s not too damp (hello, dehumidifiers), and works much better than a pantry or a garage. Store food on shelving and otherwise keep containers off the floor, as it makes food more appealing to critters. It also helps to keep foods away from fuel, paints, and other chemicals, as you’ll risk the spread of nasty odors and potential contaminants.
The Right Containers
Opaque and dark containers are best, as light only speeds up the spoilage process and destroys essential nutrients, leaving food inedible. Ensure all containers feature airtight lids, and if they don’t, that’s what duct tape is for.
The Right Temperature
Whenever possible, store food indoors. Temperature has a huge impact on food, including taste, texture, and nutrition, and most canned and dry goods do best when stored at temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Humidity also has a negative effect on stored foods, so keep the storage area dry.
The Right Variety
Store as wide a variety of foods as you can, as greater variety equals optimal nutrition. Think fruits, grains, veggies, dairy products, and various protein sources.
The Right Foods
The best foods to store are unprocessed natural foods in whole-seed form, if applicable. Recommended foods include dry legumes such as lentils, kidney beans, split peas, and pinto beans, as well as grains such as brown rice, rolled oats, cornmeal, and whole wheat kernels. Additional recommended foods include dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, prunes, apricots, and cherries.
Liquids in powder form, such as powdered milk, are also a safe bet, as is olive oil. The latter keeps well so long as it’s stored in a cool, dry place. Seeds and nuts, such as pumpkin, almond, and sunflower seeds are also recommended.
Know what foods not to store as well, such as wheat germ and whole wheat flour. These foods contain oils that go rancid when exposed to air and heat.
Keep these tips in mind when storing food!
What is your experience with food storage? Share your tips in the comments section!
2 comments
I don’t have a comment but a question. How is the best way to store brown rice for long periods of time? Thank you
Wow, everything looks so neat and tidy on the picture! Thanks for sharing the tips, they’re awesome and thank you for the motivations as well! 😉