Remember long term food storage can be acquired a little at a time. There is no need to go into debt to obtain it. I personally can say that it becomes very useful in times of adversity in our lives. There is the saying that if we are prepared we shall not fear. I look at food storage as an insurance. I hope I never have to use it (although I already have), but if I do need it I know it is there and it gives me peace.
Term Food Storage: What’s the difference between the three-month supply and longer-term supply items? 3 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 to 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 3 month supply.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
Quantity for One month for an Adult
25 lbs. Wheat, white rice, corn, and other grains 30+ years storage life
5 lbs Dry beans 30+ years storage life
You may also want to add other items to your longer-term storage such as sugar, nonfat dry milk, salt, baking soda, and cooking oil (needs to be rotated because it goes rancid). To meet nutritional needs, also store foods containing Vitamin C & other essentials nutrients.
Dry products intended for longer-term storage should be low in moisture (about 10% or less) and free from insects.
Recommended containers for longer-term storage include the following:
# 10 cans (available at Church home storage centers)
Foil pouches (available through Church Distribution Services)
PETE bottles (for dry products such as wheat, corn, and beans)
These containers, used with oxygen absorber packets, eliminate food-borne insects and help preserve nutritional quality and taste. Oxygen absorber packets are available at Church home storage centers or through Church Distribution Services. Under certain conditions, you can also use plastic buckets for longer-term storage of wheat, dry beans, and other dry products. Warning: Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in packaging that reduces oxygen. When stored in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers, products must be dry (about 10% or less moisture content).
Storage conditions: To maximize shelf life of stored food, simply follow these rules: Keep it cool: 75°F/24°C or lower whenever possible (keep away from heat & direct sunlight). Keep it dry:(do not store directly on a concrete floor or touching a masonry wall or damp area). Keep it dark: (keep bottles & translucent containers in cupboards or in boxes.) Keep it protected: Protect against damage from insects, animals, & weather
Buy quality products which will last longer & taste better, keep additional items that are needed to make meals from these products & incorporate long term items into regular diet.
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