20 Foods to Buy Before a Food Shortage
According to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises, about 282 million people in 59 countries across the globe do not have enough to eat—which is a whopping 24 million more than the year before.
These concerning numbers only highlight how important it is to be prepared. With food shortages looming, here’s 20 items you should buy right now.
Rice
Not only is rice fairly inexpensive, it also makes a good side dish to almost any meal.
It’s easy to prepare and it’s filling.
Plus, rice can be stored for a long time. In fact, white rice can stay good for up to 30 years if stored properly.
Pasta
Pasta is another affordable and versatile food to keep in your pantry. It goes with anything, is easy to prepare and, just like rice, it is very filling.
It also comes in many shapes and sizes, and is a great source of carbohydrates—which gives you energy.
Pasta can be stored for 1-2 years in an airtight container.
Oats
Oats are commonly used for breakfast, but can also be great for snacks. They’re also packed with fiber, keeping you full and satisfied for longer. They’re easy to prepare and can be added to a variety of dishes.
Oats can be stored for up to two years, if kept in a cool, dark place.
Beans
Aside from being affordable, beans have numerous health benefits.
They are an excellent source of fiber and protein, making them a nutritional powerhouse. Beans can be used in a variety of meals, from soups and stews to salads and dips, and even as meat substitutes.
They are very filling and can help stretch other foods in your pantry.
Dry beans can last over 10 years, and canned beans can last 2 to 5 years.
Canned Vegetables
When fresh produce is hard to come by, canned vegetables can do the trick. They’re already cooked, so they’re an easy add-on to any meal (like soups, stews, and casseroles) or can be eaten straight out of the can if needed.
Always check the expiration date on each can, and use the oldest cans first.
Salvation Army USA West, Flickr
Canned Meat
Canned meat is packed with protein, and is a great item to have on hand in the event of a food shortage, or when fresh meat is hard to come by. They’re affordable and can last in the pantry for quite a while.
Canned chicken, tuna, and beef can be used for a variety of meals, such as sandwiches, salads, casseroles, or eaten on their own.
They’re also fully cooked, making them even easier to prepare, or to eat straight from the can.
Canned Soup
Canned soup comes in many varieties, is affordable, and is extremely easy to prepare.They often contain vegetables and protein, making them relatively nutritious as well.
To make canned soup more filling, simply add rice or additional vegetables.
Canned Fruit
When fresh fruit is scarce, canned food can be a decent substitute. It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and it lasts 1-2 years in the pantry.
There are also a variety of options, and canned fruit can be eaten on its own or added to salads, oatmeal, yogurt, desserts, and many other meals.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is packed with protein and healthy fats, and is calorie-dense—which can be important when food is scarce.
It does not need to be refrigerated, and can be spread on bread, added to smoothies, used in baking, or eaten straight out of the jar. It’s also very filling.
Peanut butter can last 1-2 years in storage.
Flour
Flour is a must for those who bake, especially when making your own breads, pancakes, pasta, and so much more.
All-purpose flour can last about a year, while whole-wheat flour has a shorter shelf life, but can be frozen to last longer.
Sugar
Sugar can last an extremely long time, if kept dry. Not only is it a sweetener, it is important for baking and to help preserve other foods.
Sugar also provides quick energy, which can be useful in emergency situations.
Cooking Oil
Cooking oil is important for cooking, baking, and sautéing, and should be kept on hand, especially during a food shortage. It adds flavor and also helps your body absorb certain vitamins.
Cooking oils vary by smoke point, so it’s important to keep a variety on hand.
Olive oil is a good option, and lasts 18-24 months, and coconut oil can stay good indefinitely if stored correctly.
Salt
Salt is a kitchen essential.
Not only does it add flavor, it also helps preserve food. It is also vital for our bodies and helps replace electrolytes.
Not only is salt great for cooking and preserving, it can also be added to water and used as a mouthwash or for cleaning wounds.
It also never goes bad.
Supagrit Ninkaesorn, Shutterstock
Dried Lentils
Dried lentils are a plant-based powerhouse. They’re nutritious and versatile, and can be used in soups, salads, or as a meat alternative. They’re also affordable, easy to prepare, and are rich in fiber.
Powdered Milk
Powdered milk can last up to 20 years if stored properly. It’s a great option when fresh milk isn’t available, and can be used as an alternative to regular milk, added to smoothies, or used in baking.
It’s also rich in calcium, and does not need to be refrigerated until it’s mixed with water.
Rachelle @ Mommy? I'm Hungry! , Flickr
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats and protein and are calorie-dense.
They can last 6-12 months at room temperature. They can also be frozen to last even longer.
Nuts and seeds can be eaten alone as snacks, or added to a variety of dishes like salads, casseroles, baked goods, or a home-made trail mix.
Jerky
Beef jerky is a protein-packed snack that can last for up to two years if it's vacuum sealed.
Not only is it high in protein, it also does not need to be refrigerated, making it a portable snack in emergencies and a great option to satisfy hunger when cooking isn’t an option.
It can be eaten as is, or added to soups and stews.
are you gonna eat that, Flickr
Coffee & Tea
Coffee and tea are a good comfort when times are tough. Tea can last virtually forever, and coffee grounds can last for two years.
They both contain caffeine, which can help you stay alert and also be beneficial to your health.
Instant Meals
Instant meals, such as ramen noodles or freeze-dried meals, are easy to prepare with almost no other ingredients.
They can also last for years.
While they may not be gourmet, they can be quite filling in times of need.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs add flavor to your food storage. Stock up on the basics, such as black pepper, cinnamon, and dried garlic.
They can add a kick of flavor to simple meals, making them more enjoyable, and also have many health benefits.
They can also last for years if stored properly in an airtight container away from light.
