Why Correct Food Storage Matters for Home Preparedness

 

When it comes to food supply and storage, preparing for emergencies requires careful planning and understanding of shelf-stable foods. Long-term food storage involves selecting items like freeze-dried meals, canned goods, grains, and legumes, which can last for years if stored properly. Key factors to consider include maintaining the right storage environment—cool, dry, and dark places are ideal to prevent spoilage. Rotating your stockpile ensures that nothing goes to waste, while keeping a balance of essential nutrients is crucial for sustaining energy during an emergency.

 

Proper Food Storage for Maximum Shelf Life

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At POM Preparation, we emphasize the importance of correct food storage to ensure the longevity and safety of your emergency supplies. This involves choosing the right packaging—such as cook-in-pouch meals, #10 cans, or Mylar bags—and storing foods in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers. Oxygen is the enemy of shelf life, and when sealed properly, foods like rice, beans, pasta, and freeze-dried meals can last for up to 30 years. Mountain House, for example, offers food in #10 cans, proven to outperform Mylar bags in long-term oxygen protection.

 

With a plan in place, you’ll be able to maintain an efficient system that guarantees your family’s sustenance throughout an emergency.

 

Calories vs. Servings: How Much Food Do You Need?

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When planning for emergencies, it’s essential to calculate your food storage needs based on calories rather than servings. The average adult male requires around 2,000-2,500 calories per day, females around 1600-2000, and children around 1000-1600. Using these figures, you can determine how much food your household will need for a given period, whether it’s 30 days or a year. We recommend starting with a three-month supply and expanding as your budget allows. A combination of freeze-dried meals and bulk storage foods like grains and legumes will ensure a well-rounded and nutrient-dense food supply.

 

Water Storage and Filtration

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Just as important as food, water storage is vital for both hydration and food preparation. You should aim to store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Investing in water filtration systems or purification tablets can also ensure you have access to safe drinking water when clean water sources are limited or unavailable.

 

Final Thoughts on Preparedness

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Preparedness is about more than just stockpiling food—it’s about ensuring your family’s well-being through thoughtful planning and careful execution. By investing in long-term food storage and water solutions, you can face any emergency with confidence, knowing that your household is equipped with the essentials for survival.