- What is the basic principle of storage of food?
- What are the 5 guidelines for food storage?
- What 6 things should you remember when storing food?
- What are the 4 main storage areas for food?
Food storage is an essential part of emergency preparedness. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster, economic crisis, or any other unexpected event, having a well-stocked food storage can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore nine fundamentals of food storage that you must know.
Store Non-Perishable Foods
The first fundamental of food storage is to store non-perishable foods. These are foods that have a long shelf life and can be stored without refrigeration. Examples of non-perishable foods include canned foods, dry goods, and freeze-dried foods.
Rotate Your Food Stock
The second fundamental of food storage is to rotate your food stock. This means using the oldest items in your food storage first and replacing them with new items. By rotating your food stock, you ensure that your food is always fresh and safe to eat.
Store Foods That You Like
The third fundamental of food storage is to store foods that you like. There’s no point in storing foods that you won’t eat. Make sure that your food storage contains foods that you and your family enjoy.
Store Enough Food for Your Family
The fourth fundamental of food storage is to store enough food for your family. A good rule of thumb is to store at least three months’ worth of food for each person in your family. This includes both non-perishable foods and perishable foods that can be stored in a freezer.
Store Water
The fifth fundamental of food storage is to store water. Water is essential for survival, and it’s important to have enough stored for emergencies. A good rule of thumb is to store one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
Store Food in a Cool, Dry Place
The sixth fundamental of food storage is to store food in a cool, dry place. Heat and moisture can cause food to spoil and become unsafe to eat. Make sure that your food storage area is cool and dry to ensure the longevity of your food.
Have a Variety of Foods
The seventh fundamental of food storage is to have a variety of foods. This includes foods from different food groups, such as grains, proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Having a variety of foods ensures that you’re getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Store Foods That Require Little Preparation
The eighth fundamental of food storage is to store foods that require little preparation. During an emergency, you may not have access to a stove or other cooking equipment. Make sure that your food storage contains foods that can be eaten cold or that can be prepared with minimal cooking.
Have a Plan for Cooking and Preparing Food
The ninth fundamental of food storage is to have a plan for cooking and preparing food. This includes having a portable stove or grill, as well as utensils, plates, and cups. Make sure that you have all the equipment you need to prepare and serve your food in an emergency situation.
Conclusion
Food storage is an essential part of emergency preparedness. By following these nine fundamentals, you can ensure that your food storage is well-stocked, safe, and nutritious. Remember to store non-perishable foods, rotate your food stock, store foods that you like, store enough food for your family, store water, store food in a cool, dry place, have a variety of foods, store foods that require little preparation, and have a plan for cooking and preparing food. By following these fundamentals, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for any emergency.
