Prepare for the Coronavirus with the Best Long-Term Food Storage Options

Coronavirus, or Covid 19, is just one of the latest survival threats that make every prepper out there take out their list of the best long-term food storage options.

Surviving a potential large scale pandemic is not easy. It is the first time in more than a century that a disease is strong enough to make us retreat, stay behind locked doors, and social distance from others. This may even mean that open access to grocery stores could become limited. Emergency preparedness measures and a pantry full of foods with a long life span have rarely been more relevant than now. The Covid 19 pandemic has also caused many issues in the food supply chain and global food security, so it is always best to be prepared. Food safety is just as important as personal safety in crisis situations. 

If you are at a loss as to what is the best food for storage long-term, you shouldn’t despair! We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for the Coronavirus disease with the best list of emergency food supplies that you can stockpile. 

Why Consider Emergency Preparedness for Coronavirus

The latest Covid 19 outbreak shows that preparing for short-term or long-term emergencies is not optional. It is difficult to assess the current Covid 19 pandemic impact and its implications in the long run, but we do know that supply chain issues and access to everyday institutions may be limited. However, one thing we know for sure: if it is necessary to stay home for an undetermined period, an emergency preparedness kit is mandatory.

The recent events caused by the Covid 19 pandemic show that food shortages and food supply chain issues can happen overnight. It is never too early to ensure that your long-term food storage containers are full or enough. However, one day it may be too late to stock up on the most common staple foods and ingredients you can imagine.

The Benefits of Having a Long-Term Food Supply

Every survivalist out there has a stockpile of emergency food products that vary in size depending on their possibilities. Some may only have a 30-day emergency supply of food, while others have enough edible goods to last them for a decade.

Regardless of your storage options and capacity, a stash of long-lasting foods provides you with essential survival benefits, such as:

• Emergency food in times of extreme shortages or supply chain issues
• Life-saving resources in case of pandemics, epidemics, and natural disasters
• A low investment that can become priceless in times of distress
• Security in less desirable situations like losing your job or becoming ill
• Saves you from impulse buys or standing in long lines for food in hysterical emergencies

How to Stockpile Emergency Food

Building up an emergency food supply is not a question of “if” but of “when.” Here are a few guidelines that should help you stockpile your pantry quickly and effectively:

1. Pick a storage location that ensures the long-term food security and environmental protection
2. Invest in a high-security door and proper shelving options
3. Consider the diet preferences and allergies of every member of your household
4. Stock up on the best long-term food storage options
5. Take advantage of store discounts and promotions
6. Avoid stockpiling foods that have a short expiry date even if they are your favorite ones
7. Ensure that besides food, you also stock up on water and emergency cooking equipment

The Best Long-Term Food Storage Options

If you have always wondered what to store in your pantry for emergencies of all kinds, you have come to the right place. Use this emergency food supply list the next time you are out shopping and get a few items of each to gradually fill up your storage for the Covid 19 outbreak or other survival situations! Here are some food products you need to stock up on:

1.Rice

Rice can last for up to 20 years in dry and non-humid conditions. Also, you have a broad variety of grains to choose from (white, wild, basmati, etc.) Place it in air-tight containers for better food packaging.

2.Pasta

Store dry pasta in moisture-free containers. Similarly to rice, pasta can last for at least two decades without spoiling. Have your pick from wheat, rice, and buckwheat pasta.

3. Hard Grains

Whole hard grains like wheat, buckwheat, and millet can last well over 12 years in ideal storage conditions. Buy them in bulk quantities and store them in air-tight containers.

4. Dried Corn

Like whole grains, corn is an excellent long-lasting food source. You can prepare several dishes from it and use it as a staple food for many meals in the long run.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil lasts for decades if you store it away from sunlight and heat. You can use it in countless dishes, and it should be a top priority for your long-term food supply.

6. Flour

If you cannot or don’t want to store hard grains, you can always opt for flour. This staple food is an ideal addition in every survivalist’s pantry. You can have your pick from white wheat, rye, corn and buckwheat among other grains.

7. Potato Flakes

Nothing beats a quick hot meal in times of emergency. Potato flakes are ideal for preparing a savory dish in seconds or for adding it as a side dish to dry meat or canned vegetables.

8. Dried Legumes

Beans, peas, and lentils are some of the best foods to stock up on in case of emergency. They can last for decades in storage as long as you keep them in dry, moisture-free conditions. They are easy to cook and great to add to any meal.

9. Instant Soup Mixes

In times of emergency, quickest meals are the best survival alternatives. Soup mixes are not the most nutritious long-term food safety storage options, but they provide short-term satiety with lightning speed. Also, they are cheap and they should be affordable for every prepper's pockets.

10. Canned Soups

Canned soups are the perfect solution if you are in lockdown and you crave hot soup, but you don't want an instant mix one. They are quick and easy to prepare. Also, they have a long self durability that can extend for more than five years.

11. Meat Jerky

Dehydrated meat is a great source of protein in emergency times. Most brands offer it already cooked, which becomes a great in-between meals snack. Also, you can add it to a variety of foods and dishes including pasta, stews, and sandwiches.

12. Protein Bars

If you don’t eat meat, you can count on protein bars to provide you with the necessary nutrients during a period of lockdown. Opt for such snacks that contain a high amount of nuts. If you’re not allergic to them, they will boost your energy and metabolism.

13. Pemmican

Pemmican is a concentrated food bar with a very long shelf durability. It contains isolates, fructose, and sugar. You can store it for years and have it as a snack to boost both your energy levels and your mood.

14. Canned Fruits and Vegetables

Canned fruits are great alternatives to sugary desserts. They have a long shelf life and are great for refreshing fruit cocktails or as sources of vitamins and minerals. Canned vegetables are also great options for a stockpile of emergency food that will help you thrive in the long run. Most of them are already cooked, so you can add them to soups and stews.

15. Honey

Honey doesn't have an expiry date. Archaeologists have found ancient jars filled with this precious food that was still edible. You can store it for an undetermined date and add it to a variety of dishes, desserts, and for your 5 o'clock tea.

16. Ramen Noodles

Coming in tiny food packaging that usually serve just one person are a quick alternative to pasta dishes. They can last a very long time, and they can easily make the list of best emergency food safety supply you can have in your pantry.

17. Coffee and Tea

These two mood-boosting, energy-enhancing ingredients should not miss from your emergency preparedness kit. They have a remarkably long lifespan if you keep them in dry and non-humid conditions.

18. Salt, Sugar and Dried Spices

Regardless of how many types of food you have in your long-term food safety storage containers, you will never be able to make savory dishes without dry spices and salt. These ingredients together with sugar can last for decades if you keep them away from moisture and open air.

19. Powdered Milk

Powdered milk is a great source of Calcium and protein that usually lasts for more than five years. It should be part of your emergency pantry at all times. It is easy and quick to prepare, and it could serve as a relief for children in times of distress.

20. Chocolate

Last, but not least, chocolate is one of the best long-term food safety storage options you can add to your shopping list. Go for the dark kind that has a high percentage of cacao. This type of chocolate has the longest durability out of all chocolates, and it is packed with protein.

What preparedness strategies have helped you the most in a post-disaster situation?  Share your experience and advice with other Battlboxers on the Facebook Members Only Page.