Discover why stocking freeze-dried and dehydrated food is essential and learn a simple recipe to boost your emergency preparedness.
Now more than ever, people are realizing the importance of food storage and emergency preparedness. We've seen empty shelves at grocery stores and backorders for essential items across the country. Fortunately, numerous resources are available to help you learn where to start and how to prepare for any scenario.
Each person’s situation is different—some have ample space for food storage, while others live in smaller apartments. Whatever your living situation, having a food storage plan is essential. In this article, we’ll explore the top three reasons to start building your food storage today.
#3 Reduce Trips to the Grocery Store
Some think freeze-dried or dehydrated food is only for emergencies when there are no other options. However, it’s actually a great way to cut down on grocery trips, which saves money, helps avoid crowds, and reduces weekly errands.
With a stock of long-lasting foods like freeze-dried vegetables, meats, and grains, you can minimize grocery store visits and enjoy easy meal preparation.
#2 Faster and Easier Meal Prep
Freeze-dried and dehydrated foods make quick, delicious meals for the family. You can stock up on full entrees like lasagna and mac-and-cheese, or use these items as add-ins for your favorite recipes.
For example, freeze-dried fruit is a healthy snack that’s ready to eat right out of the can. You can make your own trail mix by combining freeze-dried fruit with nuts or add blueberries to muffin or pancake mix for an upgraded breakfast.
Sausage Casserole Recipe
This easy casserole uses mostly dehydrated and freeze-dried products:
- 1 cup Freeze-Dried Sausage Crumbles (hydrated)
- 1 Tbsp dried onion
- 4 ½ cups hot water
- 1 cup Long Grain White Rice
- 2 packages dehydrated chicken noodle soup (e.g., Lipton)
- Add 1 cup of sausage crumbles to 2 cups boiling water. Let sit for 7-12 minutes, then drain excess liquid.
- In a large saucepan, cook sausage with onion until onion is tender.
- Add soup packages, water, and rice. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes without removing lid.
#1 Peace of Mind During Emergencies
Finally, one of the biggest reasons to invest in food storage is the peace of mind that comes with being prepared. Having a reliable food supply ensures you and your family are ready for any emergency situation.
For emergency preparedness, consider a mix of entrees, fruits, and basics like grains, sugar, and milk to expand your meal options. This way, you’ll know that you have food your family will enjoy if an emergency occurs.
Conclusion
No matter your reason for building food storage, being prepared with freeze-dried and dehydrated foods is a decision you won’t regret. Start planning now, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re ready for the unexpected.