LONGER-TERM FOOD SUPPLY
Longer-Term Storage—30 Years or More
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 findings of recent scientific studies.
Estimated shelf life for many products has increased 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.
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+
for
a PDF list of Long Term Food items
Packaging Recommendations
Recommended
containers for longer-term storage include the following:
- # 10
cans
- Foil
pouches
- PETE
bottles
These
containers, used with oxygen absorber packets, eliminate
food-borne insects and help preserve nutritional quality and
taste.
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
Storage
life can be significantly impacted by the following conditions:
- Temperature:
Store products at a temperature of 75°F/24°C or lower whenever
possible. If storage temperatures are higher, rotate products as needed
to maintain quality.
- Moisture: Keep
storage areas dry. It is best to keep containers off of the floor to
allow for air circulation.
- Light: Protect
cooking oil and products stored in PETE bottles from light.
Insects
and rodents: Protect products stored in foil pouches and
PETE bottles from rodent and insect damage.