Foods That Last a Long Time: Stock Up on These Pantry Staples

Ever find yourself concerned about food waste or wanting to stockpile your pantry for any unexpected eventuality? It’s a fact that there are certain foods that last a long time thanks to their naturally durable characteristics and preservation techniques.

This article will guide you through a list of these powerhouse items, including nonperishable staples and tasty snacks that are nutritious and can be stored for surprisingly long periods.

Let’s dive in and discover how investing in these durable delights can save money, reduce waste, and ensure you’re prepared, no matter what comes!

Key Takeaways

• Canned fruits, vegetables, and beans have an extended shelf life due to the canning process, making them nutritious pantry staples that can last for years if stored properly.
• Dried beans, lentils, and legumes are low-moisture foods packed with protein and fiber that can last for years in a cool, dry place.
• Pantry staples like dried pasta and grains (rice, oats) have long shelf lives and provide versatile options for quick meals or breakfast bowls.
• Dark chocolate, honey, salt, vinegar, and sugar have almost infinite shelf lives thanks to their low moisture content or high acidity levels. They make great additions to your pantry as sweet treats or flavor enhancers.
• For emergency preparedness, stock up on long-lasting foods like jerky (a good source of protein), powdered milk (with a 20-year shelf life), powdered Jell-O (easy dessert option), ramen noodles (quick meal choice), and canned tuna (versatile protein source).

Food That Lasts A Long Time

Here’s a complete list of foods that last a long time, as featured in this guide:

1. Dried Pasta – A versatile staple that, when stored properly, can last for months to years.
   • Shelf Life: Months to years.
2. Jerky – A protein-rich snack ideal for long-term storage or emergency preparedness.
   • Shelf Life: Months to years.
3. Ramen Noodles – Convenient and quick, these noodles are a go-to for long-lasting meals.
   • Shelf Life: Months to years.
4. Powdered Jell-O – Easy to prepare and a fun dessert with a considerable shelf life.
   • Shelf Life: Around 2 years.
5. Dark Chocolate – A delightful treat with a relatively long shelf life due to its low moisture content.
   • Shelf Life: Up to 2 years or longer.
6. Oils (Olive, Canola, Vegetable) – Essential for cooking and flavor, with a good shelf life when stored correctly.
   • Shelf Life: Up to 2 years for olive oil, 1 year for canola and vegetable oils.
7. Grains (Rice, Oats) – Staple grains that offer versatility and nutrition. White rice, in particular, has a longer shelf life.
   • Shelf Life: 1-5 years, depending on the type.
8. Canned Tuna – A nutritious and versatile protein source with a significant shelf life.
   • Shelf Life: Up to 5 years.
9. Dried Beans, Lentils, and Legumes – Nutrient-rich and versatile, these staples can last for years in proper storage.
   • Shelf Life: Several years.
10. Canned Fruits, Vegetables, and Beans – Beneficial for their extended shelf life thanks to the canning process.
    • Shelf Life: Several years with proper storage.
11. Powdered Milk – An essential emergency staple with a remarkably long shelf life.
    • Shelf Life: Up to 20 years.
12. Honey – Known for its indefinite shelf life, honey is a sweet and versatile pantry staple.
    • Shelf Life: Indefinite.
13. Salt – An essential seasoning and preservative that can last indefinitely if kept dry.
    • Shelf Life: Indefinite.
14. Vinegar – With its natural acidity, vinegar is a long-lasting staple for cooking and preservation.
    • Shelf Life: Indefinite.
15. Sugar – Due to its low moisture content, sugar can last indefinitely, making it a pantry essential.
    • Shelf Life: Indefinite.

Canned fruits, vegetables, and beans

Canned fruits, vegetables, and beans earn a top spot on the list of foods with an extended shelf life. These pantry staples draw their durability from the canning process – a preservation technique inhibiting microbial growth, ensuring longevity.

High in nutrients just like their fresh counterparts, they provide essential vitamins and minerals vital for health. Plus, low-acid canned goods such as green beans or peaches can last even longer due to their acidic nature, which prevents spoilage.

With proper storage conditions – cool, dry spaces away from extreme temperature fluctuations – these nonperishable food items remain safe to consume for years beyond their best dates, providing nourishment when fresh options may be scarce.

Dried beans, lentils, and legumes

Dried beans, lentils, and legumes rank high among shelf-stable foods with an extended expiration date. These pantry staples can last years without losing their nutritional punch, thanks to their low moisture content.

Considered a powerhouse of protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, they deliver both sustenance and health. These long-lasting food supplies also prove very versatile in cooking – from hearty soups to salads or as a meat substitute.

Storing dried legumes properly can extend their longevity even further. Shielding them from heat, light, and humidity will ensure that these durable food items remain fresh well into the future.

Special mention should be given to dried beans; aside from being nonperishable snacks of sorts when cooked in large batches, they break down slowly during digestion to provide a steady release of energy.

Dried pasta

Dried pasta is a true champion among long-lasting pantry staples. With its extended shelf life, this durable food item can provide quick, satisfying meals for months or even years when stored properly.

Its low moisture content prevents bacterial growth, enhancing its longevity. Dried pasta offers versatility in various recipes besides being a nonperishable option with an impressive expiration date.

Whether you crave spaghetti bolognese or comforting mac and cheese on a chilly evening, having dried pasta stashed away ensures that delicious meals are always within reach. As a bonus, it’s rich in complex carbohydrates, which fuel your body, providing you with sustained energy – proving itself as more than just another food item occupying your pantry space.

Grains (rice, oats)

Grains like rice and oats are essential pantry staples with an impressive shelf life. Rice, especially white rice, can last up to 4-5 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

It’s packed with carbohydrates and provides long-lasting energy. On the other hand, oats have a shelf life of about 1-2 years when kept in an airtight container. They are rich in fiber and known for their heart-healthy benefits.

Whether making savory dishes or delicious breakfast bowls, having these grains on hand ensures you always have a versatile and nutritious option that will last for quite some time.

Oils

Oils are an essential ingredient in many recipes, and luckily, they have a long shelf life when properly stored. Olive oil, for example, can last up to two years if kept in a cool, dark place away from light and heat sources.

Canola and vegetable oils also have extended shelf lives of up to one year. These oils are great pantry staples because they provide healthy fats and flavor to your dishes while staying fresh for an extended period.

So, next time you’re stocking up on food items with long shelf life, don’t forget to include some oils!

Food Items with Almost Infinite Shelf Life

Dark chocolate, honey, salt, vinegar, and sugar are food items that have almost infinite shelf lives.

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is a delicious treat and a food item that can last for a long time. Due to its high cocoa content, dark chocolate has a low moisture content, which helps prolong its shelf life.

When stored properly in a cool and dry place, dark chocolate can last up to two years or even longer without losing its flavor and quality. Additionally, dark chocolate contains antioxidants that contribute to its longevity by preventing spoilage.

So, if you’re looking for a nonperishable snack option with an extended shelf life, consider stocking up on some indulgent dark chocolates for those sweet cravings that may arise in the future.

Honey

Honey is a remarkable food item that can last thousands of years, making it an excellent choice for long-term storage. Its high sugar content and low water activity create an environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Honey also possesses antimicrobial properties due to its low pH level, further contributing to its extended shelf life. Whether stored in jars or sealed containers, honey remains stable. It can be safely consumed even after long periods.

From sweetening your tea to providing a natural remedy for coughs and sore throats, honey is a versatile and durable pantry staple you can rely on in times of need.

Salt

Salt is one of the most versatile and long-lasting pantry staples you can have. Not only does it add flavor to dishes, but it also acts as a natural preservative. Salt has an incredibly long shelf life due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

In fact, salt can last indefinitely if stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Whether you use table salt, kosher salt, or sea salt, having this essential ingredient on hand ensures that you can season your meals and keep them preserved for extended periods without worry.

So, stock up on salt for seasoning and preserving your favorite foods!

Vinegar

Vinegar is a versatile and long-lasting pantry staple used for various purposes. From dressing salads to preserving pickles, vinegar has been around for centuries due to its extended shelf life.

Made through the fermentation process of ethanol, vinegar contains acetic acid, which acts as a natural preservative. This acidity inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, making vinegar virtually nonperishable.

Whether it’s apple cider vinegar, white distilled vinegar, or balsamic vinegar, these tangy liquids can stay on your shelves indefinitely without losing their flavor or effectiveness in cooking and cleaning.

Sugar

Sugar is a versatile food item that adds sweetness to our favorite treats and has an impressively long shelf life. Whether granulated sugar, brown sugar, or powdered sugar, this pantry staple can last for an extended period if stored properly.

Thanks to its low moisture content, sugar is highly resistant to spoilage and microbial growth. With the right storage conditions in a cool and dry place, you can keep sugar on hand for years without worrying about it going bad.

So whether you’re using it for baking or sweetening your morning coffee, rest assured that your supply of sugar will be there when you need it most.

Many medicines also have a long shelf life; see Do Epsom Salts Expire?

Foods That Have The Longest Shelf Life

It’s important to have foods with a long shelf life in emergencies. Stock up on jerky, powdered milk, powdered Jell-O, ramen noodles, and canned tuna for reliable sustenance during unexpected situations. Many emergencies involve losing power, in which case it helps to know How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit for cooking and also How To Start A Fire Without Matches.

Jerky

Jerky is a popular snack with an impressive shelf life, making it ideal for emergency preparedness or long-term storage. Made from lean cuts of meat that are seasoned and dried, jerky can last for months or even years if stored properly.

It’s a great source of protein and can provide much-needed sustenance in times of need. Whether beef, turkey, or even exotic meats like venison or buffalo, jerky is a flavorful and durable food option you can rely on when other perishable snacks are unavailable.

So, stock up on some tasty jerky to ensure you have a satisfying and long-lasting snack whenever needed.

Powdered milk

Powdered milk is an essential long-shelf-life food item to have on hand, especially for emergency preparedness. It is made by removing the moisture from regular milk, resulting in a powdered form that can be rehydrated with water.

Powdered milk has a remarkably long shelf life, lasting up to 20 years when stored properly in a cool and dry place. This makes it an excellent option for situations where fresh milk may not be readily available or if you want to stock up on dairy products that will last for a long time.

Additionally, powdered milk is packed with nutrients like calcium and protein, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes or even enjoyed on its own as a glass of refreshing cold milk.

Powdered Jell-O

Powdered Jell-O is a versatile food item that can last for an incredibly long time in your pantry. Made from gelatin, sugar, and flavorings, powdered Jell-O has a shelf life of around two years when stored in a cool, dry place.

It’s a great option to have on hand for emergency preparedness or when you need a quick and easy dessert. Simply mix the powder with water and set it in the refrigerator to create delicious and refreshing fruit-flavored gelatin treats.

With its extended expiration date and ability to add some sweetness to your meals, powdered Jell-O is definitely worth stocking up on for any situation.

Ramen noodles

Ramen noodles are a popular and convenient food option that can last for a long time. These instant noodles usually come in sealed packages, which helps to extend their shelf life.

When stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture, ramen noodles can stay fresh for months or even years. They are a great choice for emergency preparedness as they require minimal cooking and have a relatively long expiration date.

Whether you enjoy them as a quick meal on busy days or as part of your survival food supplies, ramen noodles are an excellent choice due to their extended shelf life.

Canned tuna

Canned tuna is a versatile and long-lasting food item that deserves a spot in your pantry. Packed with protein, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, it makes for a nutritious meal or snack option.

Canned tuna has an impressive shelf life of up to five years if stored properly, making it perfect for emergency preparedness or simply as a convenient pantry staple. It’s also incredibly easy to incorporate into various dishes like salads, sandwiches, casseroles, and pasta dishes.

With its extended expiration date and versatility in the kitchen, canned tuna is worth stocking up on for those times when fresh seafood isn’t readily available, or you need an easy and healthy meal option at hand.

Tips for Extending the Shelf Life of Food

Properly store your food, rotate your stock regularly, vacuum seal items, rehydrate dried foods as needed, and always check for spoilage.

Proper storage techniques

To ensure that your food items last as long as possible, storing them properly is important. Here are some essential storage techniques:

1. Keep your pantry clean and dry.
2. Store canned goods in a cool, dark place to prevent heat and light from affecting their quality. Properly stored food in #10 cans can last for decades.
3. Place dried beans, lentils, and legumes in airtight containers or glass jars with tight-fitting lids to keep out moisture and pests.
4. Store dried pasta in sealed containers or resealable bags to maintain its freshness.
5. Rice and oats should be stored in airtight containers to prevent moisture and bugs from getting in.
6. Oils should be kept away from heat sources and direct sunlight, as they can go rancid quickly when exposed to these elements.
7. Dark chocolate should be stored in a cool place, away from heat and humidity, to preserve its flavor and texture.
8. Honey can crystallize over time if exposed to air or moisture, so it’s best stored in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.
9. Salt should be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping or absorbing moisture from the surroundings.
10. Vinegar can be stored at room temperature for long periods but should be kept tightly sealed to avoid evaporation.
11. If stored correctly, sugar has an indefinite shelf life – keep it away from moisture and pests.

Rotating stock

Rotating stock is a vital practice when it comes to maintaining a well-stocked pantry with long-lasting foods. Using the “first in, first out” method ensures that older items are used before newer ones.

This helps prevent food from expiring and going to waste. When organizing your pantry, place recently purchased items behind older ones so that they are easily visible and accessible.

Regularly check expiration dates and use food accordingly. Rotating stock helps maximize the shelf life of your stored goods. It ensures you always have fresh options for meals or emergencies without waste.

Vacuum sealing

Vacuum sealing is a highly effective method for extending the shelf life of food. Removing all the air from packaging helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and preserve the quality and freshness of your ingredients.

Vacuum-sealed foods can last up to 3-5 times longer than traditionally packaged items, making them an excellent option for long-term storage. This technique is particularly useful for meats, as it helps maintain their texture and flavor over time.

So whether you’re preparing for emergencies or simply want to make your groceries last longer, investing in a vacuum sealer can be a game-changer in keeping your food fresh and delicious for extended periods.

Rehydrating dried foods

To rehydrate dried foods, simply soak them in water or a liquid of your choice until they become plump and soft again. This process is particularly useful for items like dried beans, lentils, and legumes, which can be stored for a long time without spoiling.

By soaking these dry staples overnight or simmering them on the stove, you can bring them back to life and prepare them for cooking. Rehydrating dried foods not only helps to extend their shelf life but also restores their texture and flavor.

So next time you come across some forgotten dried ingredients in your pantry, don’t throw them away – give them a good soak and let the magic happen!

Checking for spoilage

To ensure the safety and quality of your long-lasting foods, it’s important to know how to check for spoilage. Examine canned goods for bulging, rusting, or dents, as these can indicate bacterial growth or compromised packaging.

Look out for discoloration or an off smell for dried foods like pasta or beans. Moldy or soggy textures are warning signs that your food has gone bad. With liquids such as oils or sauces, pay attention to changes in color, separation, or an unpleasant odor.

Trusting your senses when evaluating whether a food item is still safe to consume is crucial. By regularly inspecting and knowing what signs to watch out for, you can confidently enjoy your long-lasting pantry staples without worry.

Conclusion

Plenty of foods can last a long time, making them great options to have in your pantry. These shelf-stable products can provide sustenance for months or years, from canned fruits and vegetables to dried pasta and beans.

Don’t forget about honey, dark chocolate, and salt – these food items have almost infinite shelf lives and are perfect for emergencies or whenever you need a lasting snack. By properly storing your food and regularly checking for spoilage, you can ensure that your pantry is stocked with durable ingredients that will stand the test of time.

See our How To Build A Prepping Pantry and How To Start Prepping for more information.

FAQ

What are some durable pantry staples for long-term storage?

Foods with extended shelf lives, ideal for long-term pantry storage, include canned fruits, vegetables, beans, dried beans, lentils, legumes, dried pasta, and grains like rice and oats. These items are praised for their durability and versatility, nutritional benefits and various meal options.

Can you recommend foods with almost infinite shelf lives for my pantry?

Dark chocolate, honey, salt, vinegar, and sugar are notable for their nearly infinite shelf lives. Their stability is attributed to factors like low moisture content, high acidity, and antimicrobial properties, making them excellent additions to any pantry.

Which foods are best for emergency preparedness?

Consider stocking up on foods like jerky, powdered milk, Jell-O, ramen noodles, and canned tuna for emergencies. These items are long-lasting and offer significant nutritional value, making them crucial for emergency food supplies.

How can I extend the shelf life of my food?

Proper storage techniques are key to extending the shelf life of food. This includes keeping food in cool, dry places, using airtight containers, and protecting items from direct sunlight. Techniques such as vacuum sealing and rotating stock also contribute to preserving food quality.

What are some signs of food spoilage I should be aware of?

Changes in texture, color, or smell are indicators of spoilage. Signs such as bulging, rusting, or leaking should prompt immediate disposal of canned goods. Regularly inspecting pantry items can help identify spoiled foods, ensuring safety and reducing waste.