In an unpredictable world, having a reliable long-term food supply is more important than ever.
Whether you’re preparing for emergencies, planning for the future, or simply seeking peace of mind, knowing which foods can last up to 25 years is crucial.
Start building your resilient food storage today and make sure you’re prepared for whatever the future holds.
Please note: We do not recommend keeping food for this long, it is always best practice to rotate your food using the FIFO (first in first out) method.
22 Best Foods To Stockpile For Up To 25 Years
1. Pure Honey
Pure honey never spoils, making it the ultimate long-lasting food in your pantry. You can rely on its natural preservative qualities to stay fresh indefinitely when stored correctly.
Its versatility allows you to use it as a sweetener, in recipes, or even as a natural remedy. By keeping honey properly sealed, you ensure it remains pure and free from contaminants for decades.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight glass or food-grade plastic containers.
- Storage Method: Airtight sealing is crucial; no need for oxygen absorbers.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Additional Tips: Ensure the container is tightly sealed after each use to maintain its quality.
2. Sugar
Both white and brown sugar can last indefinitely when you store them properly. Keeping sugar dry and sealed prevents clumping and maintains its quality over time.
Sugar is not only a sweetener but also a versatile ingredient in cooking and preservation. By storing sugar airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, you protect it from moisture and pests.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to extend shelf life and prevent pest infestations.
- Environment: Place in a cool, dry area to avoid moisture exposure.
- Pest Prevention: Maintaining dryness helps keep pests away.
3. Salt
Pure salt is a timeless staple that never spoils, providing essential flavor without the risk of degradation.
By opting for non-iodized varieties, you ensure maximum shelf life and avoid the potential for iodine to degrade over time.
Salt is indispensable in cooking, preserving foods, and even as a natural cleaning agent. Proper storage in airtight containers keeps it free from moisture and contaminants.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Keep in airtight containers to protect from moisture and contaminants.
- Storage Method: Use Mylar bags for added protection against moisture if desired.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dry place.
- Additional Tips: Avoid iodized salt to prevent potential degradation over time.
4. Hardtack
Hardtack is incredibly durable and can last indefinitely when kept dry. Its simple ingredients make it resistant to spoilage, offering a reliable calorie source for long-term storage.
Whether used as a survival food or a staple in emergency kits, hardtack provides essential carbohydrates that can sustain you during extended periods.
Making sure it is completely dry before storage prevents mold and pest infiltration.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight metal or plastic containers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers can provide extra protection.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark location to prevent moisture and pest infiltration.
- Additional Tips: Ensure hardtack is completely dry before storage to avoid mold.
5. White Rice
White rice can last up to 25 years when you store it correctly. Its long shelf life makes it a staple carbohydrate source that you can rely on for countless meals.
Proper storage prevents pests and mold, ensuring the rice remains safe and nutritious. By freezing the rice for 72 hours before storage, you eliminate any existing weevils or eggs, further securing its longevity.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers or sturdy plastic buckets with tight lids.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to extend shelf life and prevent pest infestations.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Pest Prevention: Freezing helps eliminate pests. Regularly inspect containers for signs of infestation. If you freeze, allow rice to get back to room temperature before storing.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a highly versatile and long-lasting condiment that can last indefinitely when stored properly.
Its natural acidity acts as a preservative, preventing bacterial growth and spoilage. Apple cider vinegar is perfect for cooking, salad dressings, preserving foods, and even for medicinal and cleaning purposes.
By storing apple cider vinegar in airtight containers, you ensure its longevity and protect it from moisture and pests.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in airtight glass jars or food-grade plastic containers.
- Storage Method: Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent contamination and evaporation.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
- Pest Prevention: Proper sealing and maintaining a dry storage environment help keep pests away.
7. Dried Beans
Dried beans are a nutritious and long-lasting option that can sustain you for decades. They provide essential proteins, fibers, and nutrients, making them a cornerstone of a balanced diet.
Proper preparation and storage keep them free from pests and moisture, ensuring they remain safe to consume.
By freezing the beans for at least one week before storage, you effectively kill weevils and their eggs, maintaining their quality.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers or heavy-duty plastic bins.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are ideal to prevent pest infestations and extend shelf life.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark location.
- Pest Prevention: Freezing and using oxygen absorbers significantly reduce the risk of infestation. If you freeze, allow beans to get back to room temperature before storing.
8. Lentils
Lentils offer high protein and fiber, making them excellent for long-term storage. They are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to stews.
Ensuring they are pest-free and stored in airtight conditions maximizes their shelf life and nutritional value.
If you freeze them for one week prior to storage, you eliminate any potential pests, keeping your beans and lentils safe and fresh.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended for optimal protection against pests and moisture.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry area.
- Pest Prevention: Proper pre-treatment and airtight storage prevent pest issues. If you freeze, allow lentils to get back to room temperature before storing.
9. Powdered Milk
Powdered milk, particularly freeze dried milk, provides essential calcium and protein for decades, making it a valuable addition to your storage plan.
It can be reconstituted for drinking, cooking, or baking, ensuring you have a versatile dairy option available.
Proper sealing and storage conditions preserve its nutritional quality and prevent spoilage.
By vacuum-sealing it in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, you protect it from moisture and heat, maintaining its integrity over time.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Vacuum-seal in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or store in airtight, food-grade containers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or vacuum sealing are ideal to prevent moisture and oxidation.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark, and dry place to prevent moisture and heat exposure.
- Additional Tips: Protect from light and moisture to maintain quality and prevent clumping.
10. Pasta
Dried pasta can last up to 25 years when you store it properly, offering a versatile meal base for long-term use.
It’s easy to prepare and can be paired with various sauces and ingredients, providing endless meal possibilities.
By making sure it remains dry and sealed keeps it edible for decades without the risk of spoilage.
By using airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, you safeguard pasta from moisture and pests.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to extend shelf life and prevent pest infestations.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark, and dry area.
- Pest Prevention: Using airtight storage methods minimizes the risk of pests like weevils.
11. Rolled Oats
Rolled oats can maintain their nutritional value for up to 25 years, providing a hearty breakfast option whenever needed.
They are not only a great source of fiber and protein but also versatile for use in baking and cooking.
Proper storage ensures they stay fresh and pest-free, allowing you to enjoy their benefits for decades.
If you freeze the oats for one week before storage, you prevent any potential pest infestations, keeping your oats safe and ready for use.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are ideal to prevent pests and extend shelf life.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry location.
- Pest Prevention: Freezing and airtight storage prevent infestations effectively. If you freeze, allow oats to get back to room temperature before storing.
12. Dehydrated or Freeze Dried Vegetables
Dehydrated vegetables like carrots, peas, and green beans retain their nutrients and can be stored for up to 25 years.
They are essential for providing vitamins and minerals, ensuring a balanced diet even in long-term storage scenarios.
Proper dehydration and storage prevent mold and preserve their nutritional value, making them a reliable food source.
By storing them in airtight Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside sealed containers or food-grade buckets, you maintain their quality and extend their shelf life.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in airtight Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside sealed containers or food-grade buckets.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to protect against moisture and pests.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Additional Tips: Ensure vegetables are thoroughly dehydrated before storage to prevent mold growth.
13. Freeze-Dried Fruits
Freeze-dried fruits are flavorful and nutritious, lasting up to 25 years when you store them correctly.
They retain most of their original nutrients and flavors, making them a great snack or addition to various dishes.
Their lightweight nature makes them easy to store without taking up much space, and they can be rehydrated or eaten as-is.
By using vacuum-sealed bags or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers, you preserve their taste and prevent spoilage.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use vacuum-sealed bags or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or vacuum sealing are ideal to prevent moisture and pest infestations.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry area.
- Additional Tips: Handle with clean, dry utensils to avoid introducing moisture or contaminants.
14. Canned Meats (Properly Stored)
Canned meats like chicken, beef, and fish in some circumstances can last up to 25 years if you store them properly. However it there are a lot of caveats, so it is safer to use them within about 5 years.
They provide essential proteins and can be used in a variety of meals, ensuring you have a reliable protein source during long-term storage.
I recommend making sure the cans remain intact and sealed as this is crucial for their longevity and safety.
By storing them in a cool, dark, and stable temperature environment, you maintain their quality and prevent spoilage.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Ensure cans are intact, free from rust, dents, or swelling before storage.
- Storage Method: Store in airtight metal containers if transferring from original cans for added protection.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and stable temperature environment.
- Additional Tips: Regularly inspect the cans to maintain their integrity and safety. If bulging or leaking, discard immediately.
15. Canned Vegetables
Canned vegetables are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, lasting up to 25 years with proper storage. They provide the necessary nutrients to maintain a balanced diet and can be easily incorporated into various dishes.
While they may last that long in the perfect environment, it is generally recommended to eat canned vegetables within 5 years.
Keeping them sealed and intact preserves their quality over time, ensuring they remain safe to consume. By storing them in intact, undamaged cans in a cool, dark place, you prevent spoilage and maintain their nutritional value.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use intact, undamaged cans and store them in airtight metal containers if desired.
- Storage Method: Original cans are sufficient, but transferring to airtight containers can add an extra layer of protection.
- Environment: Maintain a consistent, cool temperature to prevent can degradation.
- Additional Tips: Avoid storing near heat sources to minimize the risk of can bulging or spoilage.
16. Canned Fruits
Canned fruits can last a decade or two when you store them properly, providing natural sugars and nutrients essential for a balanced diet.
They are a delicious and convenient option for adding variety to your meals and snacks.
Once again, while they may last that long in perfect conditions, however rotating and eating them within 5 years is best practice.
Ensuring the cans are sealed and free from damage is essential for their longevity and safety.
By keeping them in a cool, dark area, you maintain their flavor and prevent deterioration, ensuring they remain tasty and nutritious for a long time.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Ensure cans are sealed and free from damage before storage.
- Storage Method: Original cans are sufficient; for added protection, use airtight containers.
- Environment: Keep them in a cool, dark area to maintain flavor and prevent deterioration.
- Additional Tips: Regularly check for any signs of compromised cans to ensure safety.
17. Freeze Dried Meals
The freeze-drying process removes moisture from the food, inhibiting bacterial growth and preventing spoilage.
This ensures that the meals remain safe, nutritious, and retain much of their original flavor and texture over extended periods.
Freeze-dried meals are lightweight and compact, making them perfect for emergency preparedness, camping, or as a staple in your long-term food storage plan.
By keeping freeze-dried meals sealed in their packaging, you protect them from moisture, pests, and environmental factors that could compromise their quality and longevity.
A favorite of ours is this hearty chickpea curry, it is chock full of flavor and very filling, a perfect preppers meal.
Their versatility allows for a wide range of meal options, ensuring variety and nutritional balance in your long-term diet.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Keep freeze-dried meals in their original airtight packaging or transfer them to high-quality Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to enhance protection against moisture and oxygen.
- Storage Method: Ensure that meals remain sealed and undamaged. Avoid opening packages until ready for use to prevent moisture ingress and oxidation.
- Environment: Store freeze-dried meals in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. According to Mountain House, ideal storage temperatures are consistently below 75°F (24°C) to maintain meal quality and extend shelf life.
18. Bouillon Cubes
Bouillon cubes are lightweight, compact, and flavorful, offering a concentrated source of flavor for soups, stews, and various dishes.
When stored properly, they can last for years, making them an essential item for long-term food storage. Their compact size allows for easy storage without taking up much space.
For the best shelf life, bouillon cubes should be stored in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to protect them from moisture and air, which can cause them to degrade over time.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are especially recommended to keep the cubes dry and prevent pest infestations.
- Environment: Keep them in a cool, dark, and dry location to prevent spoilage and maintain flavor.
- Additional Tips: Protect from humidity to prevent clumping and ensure the cubes maintain their concentrated flavor for years.
19. Instant Coffee
Freeze dried instant coffee can maintain its flavor for decades when you store it correctly.
It provides a convenient way to enjoy your daily brew without the need for grinding or brewing fresh beans.
Proper sealing and storage conditions keep it fresh and ready for use, making sure you always have access to your favorite beverage.
By vacuum-sealing it in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or using airtight, opaque containers, you protect it from moisture, air, and strong odors that can affect its quality.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Vacuum-seal in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or use airtight, opaque containers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or vacuum sealing are ideal to prevent moisture, air, and odor contamination.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place away from strong odors.
- Additional Tips: Keep away from strong odors, as instant coffee can absorb surrounding scents.
20. Instant Potatoes
Instant potatoes, or freeze dried potato, can last decades when you store it correctly.
Being a versatile food makes them a valuable addition to your long-term food storage, allowing you to prepare a variety of dishes with ease.
They are lightweight and take up minimal space, making them an efficient option for bulk storage.
By using airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, you keep them dry and pest-free, ensuring they remain fresh and ready for use.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to prevent moisture and pest infestations.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Additional Tips: Ensure the potato flakes are completely dry before storage to avoid clumping and mold growth.
21. Powdered Eggs
Powdered eggs or freeze-dried eggs, provide essential proteins and can last a very long time when stored correctly.
They are a very verstatile ingredient for various cooking needs during emergencies, allowing you to prepare scrambled eggs, baking recipes, and more.
Proper storage ensures they remain free from moisture and pests, maintaining their nutritional quality over time.
By keeping them in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers in a cool, dark, and dry location, you prevent clumping and degradation of quality.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Store in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to prevent moisture and pest infestations.
- Environment: Keep in a cool, dark, and dry location.
- Additional Tips: Avoid exposure to humidity to prevent clumping and degradation of quality.
22. Whole Grains (Wheat, Corn, etc.)
Whole grains like wheat and corn can last decades with proper storage, providing a versatile base for numerous recipes.
They are essential for baking, cooking, and as a source of carbohydrates and nutrients.
Freezing before storage helps eliminate pests and extends their shelf life, ensuring they remain fresh and safe to consume.
If you store them in Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers or food-grade buckets, you maintain their freshness and prevent pest infestations.
- Best Practices:
- Container: Use Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside airtight containers or food-grade buckets.
- Storage Method: Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are recommended to prevent moisture and pest infestations.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Pest Prevention: Freezing and airtight storage are essential to prevent pests like weevils from thriving. If you freeze, allow grains to get back to room temperature before storing.
General Storage Tips to Enhance Longevity and Prevent Pests
To maximize the longevity and safety of your stored foods, use airtight containers such as Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, vacuum-sealed bags, glass jars, or heavy-duty plastic buckets to protect against moisture, oxygen, and pests.
Store your supplies in a cool, dark place with stable temperatures between 50°F and 70°F, and implement a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system while clearly labeling each container with its contents and storage date.
Control humidity by using desiccants and protect your foods from light exposure with opaque containers.
Additionally, regularly inspect your storage areas for signs of spoilage or infestation, utilize proper sealing techniques, and consider natural pest deterrents like bay leaves or diatomaceous earth to ensure your food remains safe and fresh for years to come.
Start Prepping with Confidence
You can begin by building a 3 month food supply for your family and then work from there.
The foods listed above are some of the best options for lasting up to 25 years, providing essential nutrients and versatility in meal preparation.
Freeze drying is an excellent way to preserve many foods and meals for decades. We have a medium harvest right freeze dryer and use it all the time to make meals we like that freeze dry well so we are not restricted to eating the basics.
Always prioritize proper storage techniques to maximize shelf life and ensure the safety and quality of your stored foods.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the best practices for each food type, you can create a reliable and sustainable food supply that will support you and your family in any long-term scenario.
