Preparation goes beyond just a first aid kit or bug-out bag; it's about ensuring your family's safety and well-being in any situation—whether it's a natural disaster, war, or prolonged unemployment. One of the best ways to safeguard your loved ones is by building up a reliable food storage. Here’s a simple, month-by-month buying guide to help you build up your pantry efficiently and affordably.
Getting Started: Essential Tips for Food Storage
We offer 1-year, ready-to-buy kits to help you jumpstart your food storage HERE. However, if you’re on a budget or want to customize your storage, this guide will provide a flexible approach, so you can build your reserves based on your personal or family needs.
Month-by-Month Guide for Pantry Essentials
This guide covers the foundational staples you need to build a well-rounded food storage supply. Feel free to substitute items based on your family’s preferences. Here’s a quick legend:
- Black Text: Essentials - The basics needed to survive for a year.
- Green Text: Fruits/Vegetables - Optional but beneficial to add nutrients.
- Blue Text: Extras - Meats, flavorings, and treats. Nice to have, but non-essential.
Most quantities are suggested in #10 Cans, which typically have a 20-30 year shelf life (based on climate). After opening, contents are best used within 6-12 months.
Flexible Substitutions
Tailor your storage to your family's preferences. For example:
- Wheat → Flour, bread mix, or biscuit mix
- Beans → Soup mixes, entrée options, or other proteins
- Rice → Pasta or vice versa
Using ReadyQueue to Manage Storage
Our ReadyQueue option allows you to track your food storage and ensure you’re on pace with your storage goals. This makes it easy to manage and maintain your pantry over time, ensuring your family is well-prepared for the long haul.