Ever wonder what foods you could store for years without worrying about them going bad? Whether you’re trying to build your emergency pack or trying to save money through bulk purchases, you’re in for a long treat. Some foods can stay in your pantry (almost) indefinitely, thanks to their incredible staying power. And when the time comes that you’ll need them, there’s one ready just for you. Today, we’re bringing the 10 foods that almost never expire.
10. White Rice
Believe it or not, white rice can last up to 30 years once you learn how to store them properly. The secret? Keep them in airtight containers away from moisture and pests. Note that brown rice doesn’t share the same power as its oils can go rancid. If you plan to store them for quite some time, add some bay leaves or diatomaceous earth to keep those bugs away.
9. Instant Coffee
Even if instant coffee loses some flavor over time, it won’t make you sick. Keep it in its original container or transfer to an airtight jar, and you’ll have caffeine available long after the coffee shops close. It might not taste as good as fresh coffee, but it’ll still wake you up in 20 years.
8. Pasta
Surprise, surprise, the pasta made the list of “forever” foods. Through its low-moisture content, it prevents bacterial growth from simple ingredients and they don’t contain fats which could be a getaway for spoilage. Don’t worry, even if it turns brittle over time, it’s still safe to eat with its same energy and nutrition. Make sure to keep them in airtight containers to keep unwanted crawlies out.
7. Vinegar
We grew up knowing that any food you drench in vinegar will stay for a long time. Also, it’s too acidic on its own for bacteria to survive. However, the acid might get stronger over time, and some develop a cloudy appearance they call “mother,” but they’re still great to use. Cloudiness is even the presence of healthy bacteria. The great thing about it is that the vinegar that was found in ancient Roman ruins is still usable after more than 2,000 years.
6. Vanilla Extract
Pure vanilla extract (not the artificial store ones) contains alcohol that preserves itself. The Food and Drug Administration requires the ingredient to be at least 35% alcohol to prevent spoilage. Unlike imitation vanilla, which loses its potency over time, pure ones get better as they age, as the flavor develops. Make sure to store them in a cool, dark place to be ready for your baking projects for decades to come. In fact, some bakers pass down vanilla extract through generations of family heirlooms.
5. Baking Soda
If you’re thinking of something that never spoils, then it’s got to be baking soda. However, it loses its effectiveness over time, which means that it can no longer make your cookies rise. Still, they’re perfectly safe for cleaning, deodorizing, and other household things, which makes them pretty useful. Make sure to store them in a dry place to make them last forever. As long as it keeps its moisture out, then it will remain unchanged for over a century.
4. Dried Beans and Legumes
Those beans you’ve stored in your kitchen can last 10-30 years, especially when stored in cool and dry conditions. Yup, we’re talking about dried beans, lentils, and peas. The drying process actually removes the moisture where bacteria grow. They get a bit harder over time, but they’re perfectly safe for consumption. You just need to soak them and cook them for a time. Also, store them in airtight containers with bay leaves to keep insects away.
3. Bouillon Cubes and Powder
Dehydrated bouillon cubes and powder can last for years because they contain very little moisture and lots of salt. These concentrated flavor bombs are designed to be shelf-stable, and the salt content acts as a natural preservative. Even if they get a bit clumpy over time, they’re still safe to use and will still add flavor to your cooking. The high sodium content might actually make them more concentrated over time as any remaining moisture evaporates.
2. Salt
Literally the most used condiment in the pantry. Salt has been around for millions of years, so a few more decades in your pantry wouldn’t hurt. Pure salt never spoils since it’s a natural preservative that kills bacteria and mold. The only thing that could happen to salt is gets clumpy when exposed to moisture.
1. Honey
One thing to know about honey is that it never ages. Archaeologists even found 3,000-year-old honey stored in Egyptian tombs. The secret behind it is its low moisture content plus the acidic PH where bacteria can’t survive. Just keep them sealed in a container if you want to preserve honey that will outlast your grandkids.