Enhance your dish's flavors by adding the right cheese!
Crackers are always good to have in stock, for when you’re feeling peckish or when you need a vessel for your hummus but you’re too tired to go out for some pita.
Healthy and filling, these protein-packed snacks tend to stay fresh for at least a year.
Almond butter usually keeps for up to one year, while cashew butter keeps up to three months. Unless the jar indicates otherwise, you don’t have to refrigerate after opening.
Whether it's sweet potato, pumpkin, or applesauce, purees are great to have as a backup ingredient for baking.
Nut butters are a great source of healthy fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and powerful plant compounds that protect your body.
Look for brands that are full of hearty natural ingredients and contain minimal added sugars and artificial ingredients.
The extra fiber in whole-grain crackers also keeps you fuller for longer.
Grains are also extremely versatile and can be added to soups, salads, and casseroles. Plus, they can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Dried or canned, lentils last a long time and provide protein, nutrients, and fiber.
Having an array of spices will ensure that no matter how little or basic the food you have on hand is, you'll be able to make it tasty.
See also: Exotic spices and how to cook with them
Jerky actually comes from an ancient preservation practice that cures meat in a salt solution, then dehydrates it. Try to avoid those with many preservatives, flavorings, and other additives. Many types of jerky are available, including beef, salmon, chicken, and buffalo. There are even plant-based jerky alternatives made from coconut, banana, and jackfruit. Commercial jerky usually lasts up to one year.
While nearly all dairy products require refrigeration, this substitute is great as a source of calcium and vitamin D when you've inevitably run out of milk again. It has an estimated shelf life of up to five years when kept in a cool, dark place.
Soups can be eaten straight out of the can and provide a variety of nutrients, while also lasting up to five years at room temperature. Look for low-sodium options!
Keep in mind that high-acid fruits last just 12-18 months, and try to choose canned fruits packed in water or 100% fruit juice rather than heavy syrup to avoid the extra sugar.
You can get green beans, carrots, peas, potatoes, beets, spinach, and so much more in a can. They provide you with essential nutrients, and the heat used during canning kills any potentially harmful microorganisms.
Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey: they all tend to last around two years and provide tons of protein.
Dried beans take more work to prepare but can last 10 or more years, depending on the packaging.
A mixture of vegetables and beans, and it’s already seasoned and ready to eat!
Dried veggies, like tomatoes and carrots, can be kept about six months. If they're freeze-dried, they can be rehydrated or eaten just like that.
Plant-based drinks like soy milk last up to a year at room temperature, while canned coconut milk keeps up to five years.
Canned beans are always a good idea, as they are an excellent source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and nutrients, and they can be kept at room temperature for up to five years. They also pair well with other foods like soups, salads, and grain dishes.
Non-perishable food items are a good staple to have in any home and during any climate. Of course, they’re great to have during times of emergency, but they’re also great when you haven’t had time to go to the grocery store and still want to have a healthy meal. And since they don’t go bad, you’ll be reducing your food waste footprint. Click through to see what you should have in your pantry.
Stocking your pantry: The value of non-perishable foods
Healthy food that won't go bad...
FOOD Healthy living
Non-perishable food items are a good staple to have in any home and during any climate. Of course, they’re great to have during times of emergency, but they’re also great when you haven’t had time to go to the grocery store and still want to have a healthy meal. And since they don’t go bad, you’ll be reducing your food waste footprint. Click through to see what you should have in your pantry.