15 of the Best Nonperishable Foods

These goods are a terrific addition to any grocery list, whether you are stocking your personal pantry or contributing to a local group:

1. Dried and canned beans

Dried and canned beans are excellent nonperishable choices due to their extended shelf life and high nutritious content. Beans are high in fiber, plant protein, magnesium, B vitamins, manganese, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and copper. Furthermore, they complement most diets and pair well with soups, grains, and salads.

2. Canned fish and seafood

Canned fish is high in protein and may be stored for up to 2 years. Tuna and other seafood can often be purchased in lightweight packaging called retort pouches, which will survive for 18 months on your shelf. You can serve these nonperishables with crackers, put them in spaghetti or use them as a hearty salad topper.

3. Nut butter

Nut butter is nutrient-dense and a healthy source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Commercially packed nut butter have a longer shelf life than homemade ones. However, keep in mind that even if the label states that the butter can be stored for up to 2 years, nut butter have a tendency to grow rancid if stored for an extended period of time.

4. Whole grains

Whole grain rice, oats, barley, and quinoa have a longer shelf life than bread and are rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as fiber, protein, vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron. 

5. Chia seeds

Chia seeds can be stored unopened for about 2 years. These seeds are superfoods that are one of the few plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid. One tablespoon of chia seeds also contains 5 grams of gut-friendly fiber.

6. Almond milk

Almond milk is packed in shelf-stable cartons and can be stored unopened for 6 months to a year. Almond milk is a great alternative to cow’s milk and is often fortified with minerals, calcium, and vitamin D.

7. Bone broth

Although bone broth can be purchased fresh or frozen, there are also boxed varieties that can be stored in a pantry or cupboard for up to 2 years. One cup of bone broth has about 10 grams of protein and just 45 calories, making it an ideal protein-rich foundation for a hearty soup or stew. 

8. Granola bars

Unopened granola bars may last 6-8 months depending on the brand. These prepackaged bars are a terrific on-the-go breakfast option because they are simple but satisfying. However, not all granola bars are made equal. Read the label and choose ones with less added sugars.

9. Canned vegetables

Although they do not taste as fresh as the real thing, canned veggies are still nutritious nonperishable foods. Low-acid canned vegetables can be stored for up to 5 years and include carrots, peas, beets, pumpkin, spinach, and potatoes. High-acid vegetables can be stored for up to 18 months and include tomatoes, pickles, and citrus fruits.

10. Dried vegetables

Dried or dehydrated vegetables are healthy nonperishable food items that can be stored in the pantry for months or years. Although there are many varieties of dried veggies, some of the most popular are dried tomatoes, dried mushrooms, and dried peppers, which may be used in dips, pasta dishes, soups, stews, and baked goods.

11. Dried fruits

Fresh fruits spoil quickly, so stocking up on dried fruits such as raisins, dates, and apricots is an excellent way to have fruit on hand in an emergency. Although dried fruits have more natural sugar than fresh fruits, they are still a healthy source of fiber and minerals, and a little goes a long way. Dried fruits may be eaten as snacks, either alone or in trail mix, and they can be rehydrated and added to baked products or savory foods such as stews. Dried fruits may be preserved in the pantry for up to a year if properly stored in an airtight container. 

12. Dried pasta

Pasta may have a bad rap for being high in carbs, but carbs are necessary for energy, of which pasta is a rich and flavorful source. Stock up on your favorite shapes, and they will last up to 2 years on the shelf. Chickpea-based pasta is high in protein, low in carbs, and gluten free, so it is a good alternative if you are allergic or sensitive to gluten.

13. Cooking oil

Unopened bottles of cooking oil stored in a cool, dark area can last for up to 2 years. Once opened, they should be used within 3-6 months. Therefore, it is better to choose a more neutral vegetable oil such as sunflower oil for your emergency pantry than pricey extra-virgin olive oil, which goes rancid faster.

14. Honey and maple syrup

Honey and maple syrup are nutritious natural sweeteners in addition to being good sources of trace minerals. Unlike refined sugar, maple syrup contains manganese, zinc, and iron. Honey is also widely recognized for its natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties as well as antioxidant properties. Unopened raw honey can be stored indefinitely, but 100% pure maple syrup will only keep for 1 year unopened in the pantry or 1 year opened in the refrigerator.

15. Dried herbs, spices, and salt

Many nonperishable foods lack flavor, so stocking your pantry with dried herbs and spices is a great way to make your meals taste better. Although herbs and spices lose flavor over time and cannot be stored indefinitely, whole spices will keep for approximately 4 years, powdered spices for about 2-3 years, and dried herbs for 1-3 years. Rock salt or sea salt is an essential source of nourishment in any whole foods diet, providing you with crucial minerals and electrolytes and never going bad. 

Nonperishables usually last for a long time when stored properly. 

The best way to extend the life of these goods is to keep them in dry, cold, dark, and well-ventilated areas such as a basement or cellar rather than areas that are hot, humid, or exposed to light.