Storing a great supply of basic foods is an excellent method to be prepared. Not only is having dry storage convenient for your weekly meal preparation, but it can also work well for you in the event of an emergency. There are several incredible reasons to keep a dry storage shelf, cabinet, or room. But what are the best foods for your dry storage?
Not all foods will last six months, a year, or longer, and so to minimize the amount of effort it will take to keep your dry storage up to date, it’s imperative to choose and use dry food with the longest possible shelf life. Here is a list of common foods that should be a part of any dry storage system.
Rice and Grains
Perhaps the ideal product for your food storage inventory consists of rice and grains, especially rolled oats and dried or canned corn. These are affordable and yummy foods that you can use in various recipes. They also all tend to last a long time under the right conditions. Rice and rolled oats can both last up to 30 years when stored properly!
Pasta and Noodles
Another great shelf food for your food storage is dried pasta and noodles. Not only will commercially-packaged pasta last around 10 years on a shelf, but there are also many different kinds of noodles that you can include in your dry food stores. Italian-style pasta, ramen, vermicelli, and more are all great options to stock up on when they go on sale.
Beans
Beans are a food storage staple because they offer healthy plant proteins and, for dry varieties, can last up to 30 years in storage. Even if you love canned beans, plan to keep different beans on hand and begin consuming them often in your cooking. Pinto beans, white beans, black beans, and chickpeas are all popular options that are tasty additions to many hearty dishes.
Powdered Eggs and Milk
Yes, you can also keep eggs and dairy in your dry food storage! (Remember: You need canned or powdered varieties for storage purposes.) Powdered eggs are incredible to use in baking and require no refrigeration. They can last up to 7 years, making them an extraordinary choice for a fully stocked food storage room.
This is particularly relevant for powdered or canned milk. Not only can you use both anytime you want the creamy consistency of half and half in a recipe, but these foods will also last much longer and are great to have on hand in an emergency.
Coffee, Condiments, and Snacks
As you stock your dry food shelves, remember to include items you regularly utilize that you can also keep in your storage! For instance, if you drink coffee, it’s reasonable to keep some in your food storage. It may not be much longer than rice or pasta, but with rotation, you can keep a bag or two on hand at all times.
Staples like salt, sugar, baking soda, ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, and even salad dressings and barbeque sauces can be kept in dry storage for months or even years. No refrigeration is required, as long as they are unopened. At last, packaged snacks and cookies, including crackers, candy, or other treats, are a great way to satisfy those cravings and to ensure that you always have snacks on hand when you need them.
With some planning and regular rotation, you can easily keep a stock of dry food in your pantry, cabinet, or storage room!
Would you like a rental house with more room for your dry food storage? Or maybe you are already in the market for a new rental home? Real Property Management Unlimited can help! Reach out to us to speak with a Bridgehampton property manager or view our listings online.
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