11 Foods That Stay Fresh for Years (Perfect for Stockpiling)

We live in a world where being prepared can make all the difference. For this reason, having a well-stocked pantry with long-lasting foods is more important than ever.

Whether you’re planning for emergencies, aiming to minimize grocery trips, or simply looking to have essential staples on hand, these foods can provide peace of mind and security.

Here are 11 of the best long-lasting foods that you should consider adding to your kitchen inventory. These foods will ensure you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

1. Beans/dried lentils
   Dried beans will last for at least several years. Beans are a great source of essential dietary fiber and carbohydrates when you’re dealing with an emergency or are low on supplies. Store dried lentils in a cool, dry place.
2. Dried fruit
   Dried fruit can last many years but it should be stored in a safe place away from fumes it can soak up. Since dried fruit can soak up flavor elements from its surroundings, you should store it in a clean, dry room with enough air ventilation to keep it from being stuffy.
3. Honey
   Honey is well-known for being the longest-lasting and most sustainable food source. Honey can last a very long time, especially if you keep it in a dry place with the lid on at all times. If your honey becomes crystallized, you can melt it down again. Place the container in a bath of warm water, and the crystals will melt down to syrup.
4. Maple syrup
   Like honey, maple syrup easily stores and preserves for many years when kept closed, sealed and in a cool, dry place. If maple syrup crystalizes, you can also melt it by putting the container in a bath of warm water.
5. Oats
   Oats are a versatile ingredient. You can serve them hot with either savory or sweet toppings.
6. Powdered milk
   When looking for Vitamins D, C and calcium, powdered milk is the perfect stored option if you don’t have access to fresh citrus or fresh dairy. Powdered milk retains its nutritional value even after it has been dried and stored for several years. When buying powdered milk, look for products that are specifically designed for long-term storage.
7. Rice
   Rice keeps itself dry so it also has a long shelf life. White rice is the most recommended because brown rice has the highest possibility of going rancid over time. Whatever kind of rice you get, opt for the dehydrated form and seal it properly.
8. Salt
   Salt is naturally long-lasting even without human intervention. In a pinch, you can use salt to preserve meat. However, you will need a lot of salt for meat preservation so keep that in mind if you plan to do so after SHTF.
9. Soy sauce
   Soy sauce is fermented and salty and it can last a very long time even without refrigeration. Make sure you store soy sauce away from fumes so that it doesn’t get tainted by outside smells.
10. Sugar
    In its purest form, sugar can last almost as long as salt.
11. Vinegar
    White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are fermented and impossible to spoil. Keep vinegar closed and store it in a cool, dry place away from fumes that can get into the liquid and taint it.

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