10 Top Tips for Food Storage

We live in such uncertain times. Economic crises, unemployment, and natural disasters, spring up suddenly or grow steadily over time. The leaders of the church have taught us time and time again about the importance of being prepared for such occurrences. And it is not recent doctrine either; Doctrine and Covenants 38:30 states that “if ye are prepared, ye shall not fear.” We cannot stop unexpected disasters from happening, but we can be prepared to face them. When the time comes, we will have a better chance of making it through if we keep an emergency food supply for ourselves and our families. With that in mind, here are ten top tips to help you as you strive to be prepared through creating your own food storage.

• Do It Gradually

In a 2002 conference talk, Gordon B. Hinckley said, “We can begin ever so modestly. We can begin with a one week’s food supply and gradually build it to a month, and then to three months…you will be surprised how it accumulates.” If you try to tackle it all at once, it can be overwhelming.

• Keep it Basic

In that same talk, President Hinckley reminded us to keep it basic. Work out how much food you and your family needs in order to survive for a few days. Fill this need first and then you can branch out and add other supplementary items. Don’t forget to store at least a gallon of water per person per day.

• Have Fun With It

However, just because it is necessary does not mean that you have to eat bland or boring food that you would not normally eat. There are a lot of good nonperishable food options available, and companies that offer high quality meals that can be stored long term, as well as tasting delicious.

• Save Money as Well

Remember to set aside some money along with your food storage. Keep some cash in a safe place. You never know when you might need it.

• Use your Resources

In recent years a number of companies have sprouted out of the need and demand for food storage. They make it easier than ever to create food storage, hassle free. So use them!

• Space Management

You cannot create a good food storage unless you have somewhere to put it; and it’s a good idea to set aside that space before you have the food! Depending on the size of your family, you may have to stock a lot of food, so make sure that you pay attention to keeping your food compact.

• Make it a Family Affair

Putting together your food storage can be a fun ongoing activity for your family. Let your kids help you as you create meals and choose which foods to keep. Not only will it be a fun experience for them, but it will teach them important habits for the future.

• Use Method to Prevent Madness

There are certain things that you can do in order to make this easier. One such suggestion is to pay attention to the meals that you make regularly, and the ingredients that you use the most. Then make a list and buy a little extra each time you go to the store. Before you know it you will have a fully stocked food supply.

• Replenish Regularly

Not every food can last forever, so make sure that you are checking and replenishing your supply regularly. If something is about to expire, make it into a meal and enjoy it before you replace it.

• Start Now!

You never know when something might happen, so the best time to start preparing is right now. Start today, or regret it tomorrow!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lee Flynn is a freelance writer and expert in long-term food storage and emergency preparedness.