12 of the Best Non-Perishable Foods - 2022

 the Best Non-Perishable Foods 

 

Non-Perishable

Non-perishable items like canned goods and dried fruit have a long shelf life and don't need to be refrigerated to stay fresh. They can instead be kept at room temperatures, such as in a pantry or cabinet.

They're not only common kitchen goods, but they're also popular among hikers and campers who can't bring perishable foods like fresh meats, dairy, or veggies on the path.

Non-perishable items are also important in emergencies and are preferred by charitable organizations that feed or provide groceries to persons who are homeless or food insecure.

Although certain non-perishable meals, such as packaged macaroni and cheese, are high in preservatives and other unhealthy components, there are many healthier options.

Here are 12 non-perishable foods that are good for you:

1. Beans, both dried and canned

Dried and canned beans are good non-perishable food choices because of their long shelf life and high nutritious content. Depending on the packing, canned beans can last 2–5 years at room temperature, whereas dried beans can survive 10 or more years.

In fact, according to one study, 80 percent of individuals on an emergency food use panel thought pinto beans preserved for up to 30 years were edible (2).

Beans are high in fiber, plant-based protein, magnesium, B vitamins, manganese, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and copper, among other nutrients. They also go well with a wide variety of foods and make hearty accents to soups, grains, and salads.

2. Nut butter is another option.

Nut butter is rich in nutrients, creamy, and tasty. Although storage conditions might alter shelf life, commercial peanut butter can be kept at room temperature for up to 9 months. Natural peanut butter, which contains no preservatives, can be stored for up to three months at 50°F (10°C) and only one month at 77°F (25°C).

Almond butter can last up to a year at room temperature, whereas cashew butter can last up to three months, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Nut butter is high in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and potent plant chemicals including phenolic antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.

Nut butter jars may be kept in the pantry, and smaller packets can be packed for trekking or camping for a quick snack.

3. Fruits and vegetables that have been dried

Dried produce is considered non-perishable, even though most fresh fruits and vegetables have a short shelf life. Most dried fruit and vegetables can be securely stored at room temperature for up to a year if properly stored, and dried vegetables for roughly half that period.

Dried berries, apples, tomatoes, and carrots are just a few of the dried fruits and vegetables available. You may also prepare your own dried fruits and veggies using a dehydrator or an oven. Vacuum-sealed packaging can assist avoid spoiling.

Dried fruits and vegetables make a great snack or addition to trail mix. In addition, if fresh food isn't accessible, dried vegetables can be rehydrated by adding them to soups or stews.

4. Fish and poultry in cans

Fresh fish and poultry are nutrient-dense, but they're also highly perishable. Canned varieties, on the other hand, can be preserved at ambient temperature for up to 5 years without refrigeration.

Tuna and other fish products are also available in retort pouches, which are ideal for smaller pantries and hiking trips. The shelf life of seafood in retort pouches can be up to 18 months.

Chicken and other meats can also be available in retort pouches, albeit the shelf life information should be read on the box.

5. Seeds and nuts

 Because they are portable, nutrient-dense, and shelf-stable, nuts and seeds are non-perishable food essentials. They're popular among hikers and trekkers for high-calorie snacks, but they're also handy to have on hand in any situation.

When maintained at or near room temperature (68°F or 20°C), nuts survive around 4 months on average, though shelf life varies widely amongst nut varieties.

Cashews, for example, may be stored at 68°F (20°C) for 6 months, whereas pistachios only survive 1 month at the same temperature.

Seeds have the same shelf life. Pumpkin seeds can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months, according to the USDA.

6. Cereals

 Oats, rice, and barley, for example, have a far longer shelf life than other popular but perishable carb sources like bread, making them an excellent choice for long-term food storage.

Brown rice, for example, can be stored between 50–70°F (10–21°C) for up to 3 months, whereas farro can be stored at ambient temperature for up to 6 months.

Grains are versatile non-perishable grains that may be used in soups, salads, and casseroles. Furthermore, consuming whole grains may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

7. Vegetables and fruits in cans

Fruits and vegetables, as well as other perishable items, have traditionally been canned to extend their shelf life.

Canning eliminates potentially harmful microbes, and the distinctive seal of canned goods prevents new bacteria from ruining the contents.

The shelf life of canned fruits and vegetables varies depending on the variety.

Low-acid canned vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, beets, and spinach, can be stored at room temperature for 2–5 years.

High-acid fruits, such as grapefruit, apples, peaches, berries, and pineapple, on the other hand, only endure 12–18 months. Sauerkraut, German potato salad, and other pickled vegetables are examples of vinegar-packed vegetables.

When shopping, prefer canned fruits packaged in water or 100 percent fruit juice over heavy syrup, and whenever possible, choose low sodium canned vegetables.

Consider canning at home with store-bought or garden-grown veggies and fruits if you're handy in the kitchen. If you don't know how there are various books and online lessons available.

8. Jerky

 Meat preservation has been utilized to protect protein sources from degrading since prehistoric times. Jerky is created by bringing beef into a salt solution before dehydrating it. During processing, preservatives, flavorings, and other additions may be applied.

Jerky comes in a variety of flavors, including beef, fish, chicken, and buffalo. Coconut, banana, and jackfruit jerky are just a few of the plant-based jerky options. However, these substitutes do not have the same nutritious value as meat-based jerkies.

Commercial jerky can be stored in the cupboard for up to a year, while handmade jerky should only be kept for two months at room temperature, according to the USDA.

9. Protein bars and granola

Due to their long shelf life and nutritious composition, granola and protein bars are a popular choice among trekkers and hikers.

At room temperature, many granola bars can last up to a year. Similarly, most protein bars have a shelf life of at least one year, though it's advisable to verify the expiration date on individual items' labels.

Furthermore, if you choose the correct kinds of granola and protein bars, they can be quite nutritious. Look for brands with plenty of substantial components like oats, almonds, and dried fruit, as well as little added sugars and artificial additives.

9. Soup 

When it comes to stocking your pantry, canned and dried soups are great options. Food donation groups prefer them as well.

Most canned soups are low in acid and can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 years. Tomato-based variants, on the other hand, have a shelf life of roughly 18 months.

Although most dry soup mixes can last up to a year in storage, it's always a good idea to double-check the expiration dates on the labels.

Choose soups that are high in nutritious ingredients like vegetables and beans, and avoid high-sodium goods as much as possible, as too much salt can be harmful to your health.

11. Use freeze-dried foods

Freeze drying removes water from food by sublimating it, a process in which ice is transformed straight into vapor, allowing it to remain longer at room temperature. Because of their minimal weight and portability, freeze-dried meals are popular among travelers.

Freeze-dried and ready-to-eat foods. Freeze-dried meals are designed to last a long time, with some companies promising a 30-year flavor guarantee (20).

Many firms, such as Wild Zora and AlpineAire, produce delectable freeze-dried meals that are both healthful and adaptable to specific dietary patterns.

12. Nondairy milk and shelf-stable milk

Fresh milk and some non-dairy alternatives, such as almond and coconut milk, must be kept refrigerated, although shelf-stable milk and many non-dairy kinds of milk can be kept at room temperature.

Because shelf-stable or aseptic milk is heated to higher degrees and placed in sterile containers, it is prepared and packaged differently than conventional milk.

When maintained at 40–68°F (4–20°C), shelf-stable milk had a shelf life of up to 9 months, according to one study.

Plant-based drinks like soy milk, which are packaged in flexible materials like plastic, paper, and metal, can last up to 10 months at room temperature, while canned coconut milk can last up to 5 years.

When refrigeration isn't available, shelf-stable and plant-based milk can be used. Powdered milk is an excellent substitute, with a shelf life of 3–5 years if stored in a cool, dark environment. It can be reconstituted in little amounts with clean water as needed.

the Best Non-Perishable Foods

  1. Meats in Cans
  2. Tuna and salmon in cans
  3. Peanut Butter (Peanut Butter)
  4. Jellyfish (no glass)
  5. Soups, canned or dry
  6. Chili and Canned Stews
  7. Bags of tea
  8. a cup of coffee (ground no beans)
  9. Pasta from a can
  10. Veggies in Cans
  11. Fruit in Cans
  12. Pasta in a can (Spaghetti "O's")
  13. Cereals
  14. Rice
  15. Mixes for cakes
  16. Mix for Pancakes
  17. Syrup
  18. Milk in powdered form
  19. Pasta in a Bag (Macaroni & Cheese, etc.)
  20. Boxes of Juice
  21. Juices in Cans
  22. Beans in a can
  23. Gravy from a can
  24. Sugar Granules
  25. Cereals & Baby Food (glass jars accepted)
  26. Enfamil/Similac baby formula
  27. Bars of Granola
  28. Bars of Cereal




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