Start by adding a few storable items that you typically eat, storing some water that is safe to drink, and saving some money, if only a few coins each week. Then over time, expand these initial efforts—as individual circumstances allow and where permitted—by storing a longer-term supply of basics such as grains, beans, and other staples.
How quickly should I obtain my food storage?
It is not prudent to go to extremes or go into debt to establish your home storage all at once. Gradually build reserves over time as financial resources and space permit.
What’s the difference between the three-month and longer-term supply items?
Three-month supply items are foods that you normally eat, including canned and commercially packaged foods. Longer-term supply items are basic food items like grains and beans that have very low moisture content (about 10% or less), can be stored for long periods of time (20–30 years), and would sustain life if nothing else were available to eat. A portion of longer-term supply items may be rotated into the three-month supply.
Can longer-term products really store for 30 years or longer?
Yes. Properly packaged, low-moisture foods stored at room temperature or cooler (75°F/24°C or lower) remain nutritious and edible much longer than previously thought according to recent scientific studies. The studies, which are the first of their kind, increase the estimated shelf life for many products to 30 years or more (see chart for new estimates of shelf life). Previous estimates of longevity were based on “best-if-used-by” recommendations and experience. Though not studied, sugar, salt, baking soda (essential for soaking beans) and Vitamin C in tablet form also store well long-term. Some basic foods do need more frequent rotation, such as vegetable oil every 1 to 2 years.
While there is a decline in nutritional quality and taste over time, depending on the original quality of food and how it was processed, packaged, and stored, the studies show that even after being stored long-term, the food will help sustain life in an emergency.
| Food | New "Life Sustaining" Shelf-Life Estimates (In Years) |
| Wheat | 30+ |
| White rice | 30+ |
| Corn | 30+ |
| Sugar | 30+ |
| Pinto beans | 30 |
| Rolled oats | 30 |
| Pasta | 30 |
| Potato flakes | 30 |
| Apple slices | 30 |
| Non-fat powdered milk | 20 |
| Dehydrated carrots | 20 |
What containers are suitable for longer-term storage of dry products?
Recommended containers for longer-term storage include #10 cans (available at Church home storage centers), foil pouches (available through Church Distribution Services), and PETE bottles (available commercially). Visit www.providentliving.org for additional information on recommended storage containers.
Source: www.providentliving.org
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