In the face of rising food shortages, ensuring access to essential supplies becomes increasingly vital. Prioritizing items that offer both nutrition and long-term sustainability can help maintain well-being during uncertain times.
Rice
In 2022-2023, 520.4 million metric tons of rice were used globally. This grain forms the foundation of many diets globally. Its long shelf life makes it ideal for stockpiling during food shortages. Rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy and can be prepared in numerous ways. Properly stored rice can last for years, ensuring a reliable food source during lean times. Its affordability and widespread availability make it an accessible option for most households.
Pasta
The value of the global pasta market stood at $68.35 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $100.24 by 2032. It is a great source of carbs that provide you energy for a long time. When kept properly, dried pasta may have a lengthy shelf life of up to two years. It pairs well with various sauces and ingredients, allowing for diverse meal options. Its compact storage requirements make it ideal for stockpiling in preparation for potential food shortages.
Beans and Lentils
In 2024, the world’s pulse output reached 27 million tons. Beans and lentils are nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein and fiber. These legumes have an impressive shelf life and often last for years when stored correctly. This cost-effective high-fiber content takes up minimal storage space. This makes them ideal for long-term food storage plans.
Canned Meat and Fish
The market for canned seafood is worth $35.27 billion worldwide in 2024. Canned meats and fish offer a reliable source of protein during food shortages. These products have a long shelf life, often lasting for 2 to 5 years past their best-by date. They require no refrigeration which makes them ideal for situations with limited power. Canned meats and fish are pre-cooked. It allows for quick meal preparation when time or resources are scarce.
Oats
Global oat production reached 25.32 million metric tons in 2022-23. Oats provide a nutritional and filling breakfast option during food shortages. They are rich in fiber and promote digestive health and prolonged satiety. This foot item can stay proper for up to 30 years when kept properly. It makes them perfect for storing food for a long time. They are versatile, and usable in both sweet and savory dishes. It requires minimal cooking, conserving fuel, and time in resource-limited situations.
Flour
The average estimated value of global wheat production stands at $798.2 million metric tons in 2024-25. Flour serves as a fundamental ingredient for home baking during food shortages. It can be used to make bread, pasta, and other staple foods when store-bought options are not available. Properly stored flour can last up to a year, providing a reliable baking base. Its affordability makes it an economical choice for bulk purchasing and long-term storage.
Dried Fruits
The global dried fruit market size is $7.21 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $15.5 billion by 2030. Dried fruits offer concentrated nutrition and provide essential vitamins and minerals in a compact form. They have a long shelf life and last up to a year when stored carefully. Dried fruits can be served as an energy-dense snack and can also be used in baking or cooking. Their natural sweetness can help satisfy sugar cravings when fresh fruits are scarce. They are perfect for storing because they are small and light.
Cooking Oils
By the end of 2024, the edible oil industry will be worth $126 billion globally. Cooking oils are essential for food preparation, enhancing flavors and providing necessary fats. When kept properly, it lasts for one to two years. Oils provide a concentrated source of calories. They are versatile and usable for drying, sauteing, and as ingredients in various recipes.
Sugar and Sweeteners
In 2023-2024, the world produced 183.5 million metric tons of sugar. Sugar plays a crucial role in food preservation, extending the shelf life of homemade jams and jellies. It has an indefinite shelf life when stored properly due to which it is ideal for stockpiling. Sugar provides quick energy in emergencies when calorie intake is crucial. It is essential for baking and can also be used to mask unpleasant flavors in emergency food supplies. Its versatility extends to non-food uses, such as wound care during emergencies.
Salt
Global salt production reached 270 million metric tons in 2024. Salt is crucial for enhancing flavor in stored foods, making meals more palatable. It plays a vital role in food preservation, extending the shelf life of home-canned goods. Salt has an indefinite shelf life, making it perfect for long-term storage. It is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body along with numerous non-food uses. Its affordability makes it an economical choice for bulk purchasing and stockpiling.
Nuts and Seeds
The global market size of nuts and size in 2024 is $32.40 billion. They are packed full of protein and provide good nourishment. When kept properly, they may be kept for up to 12 months. Nuts and seeds are versatile, usable as snacks, in baking, or as ingredients in various dishes. They contain essential minerals like magnesium and zinc and support overall health.
Powdered Milk or Shelf-Stable Milk
The global milk powder market size was $32.19 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $44.96 billion by 2030. Powdered milk offers a long-lasting alternative to fresh dairy during food shortages. It can be reconstituted for drinking or used directly in cooking and baking. Properly stored powders can last up to 25 years. It provides essential nutrients and is space-efficient and lightweight.
Herbs and Spices
The global market size for herbs and spices is $48.97 billion in 2024. Herbs and spices are crucial for adding variety and flavor to stored foods. They have an extended shelf life, ranging from one to four years. These seasonings can make repetitive meals tastier during extended food shortages. They can be used to create diverse flavor profiles and can be easily stored because of their lightweight and space-efficient nature.
Canned Soups and Stews
The canned soup market size internationally is $8.53 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $10.38 billion in 2029. Canned soups and stews offer complete, ready-to-eat meals during food shortages. They have a long shelf life of 2 to 5 years. These products require minimal preparation, conserving fuel and time. They often contain a balance of proteins, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one convenient package. Their liquid content can help with hydration in situations where water might be scarce.