Having a well-stocked preppers pantry will ensure that you and your household are ready for short and long-term emergencies. Food shortages can happen at any time, which is why you’ll want to be prepared for them. These are some of the essential foods you’ll want to have in your pantry.
Have Plenty of Water
Humans can’t live long without water, which is why you’ll want to have a large supply of water in your pantry. Your pantry should have at least 90 gallons of water for each member of your household.
When storing water, it’s vital to use food-grade containers to keep your water safe from contamination. Typically, if a container is food safe, there will be a small symbol on the container that looks like a cup and a fork. Depending on your storage system, you may find that larger containers, like 55-gallon drums, are the most effective storage option.
Stock Up on Shelf-Stable Foods
In addition to water, your pantry should be stocked with a large supply of long-lasting foods. Canned foods are a staple, as are canned drinks and liquids. Other foods you’ll want in your pantry include:
- Powdered milk and eggs
- Protein bars
- Dehydrated meat and seafood
- Cooking oil
- Oats
- Ready-to-eat meals
- White rice
- Dried pasta
- Dried fruit
- Dried beans
- Nut butter
- Salt
- Sugar
- Spices
- Apple cider vinegar
With the right selection of foods, you won’t just be able to feed your family. You’ll be able to prepare a wide variety of nutritious and tasty meals.
Look Into Freeze-Dried Foods
In addition to the foods listed above, you may want to consider adding freeze-fried foods to your pantry. When food is freeze-dried, it’s preserved when it’s at its freshest. This is also when the food has the most nutritional value.
Even canned and other types of shelf-stable foods have a limited shelf life. Many of the items in your pantry will need to be consumed within a few years. Freeze-dried food, however, can last for decades. These products typically last between 25 and 30 years.
Try Preserving Food Yourself
While you can stock up on supplies at the store, it can also be valuable to preserve food yourself. Whether you choose to can, pickle, cure, or dry your foods, preserving foods at home can leave you with a well-stocked pantry. Best of all, you can preserve fruits and vegetables you’ve grown in your own backyard.
Learning how to preserve foods is an excellent way to become more self-reliant. Learn more about food preservation methods, stock up on the necessary supplies, and work to preserve the food you have for longer. There are plenty of detailed food preservation guides that can show you the basics if this is a skill you’d like to learn.
How long could your household last in an emergency? By storing water and food, you can keep your household safe in a variety of situations. Start gathering the food and supplies you’ll need for your preppers pantry so that you’ll always have access to something to eat and drink.