HOMESTEAD HOW-TO
Your stockpile will expand over time, so choosing foods that won’t spoil before you have a chance to use them is essential.
Canned meats can last 10-20 years if kept in a cool, dry place. Their long shelf life is mainly due to the high salt content, a natural preservative. However, you must inspect canned goods for signs of spoilage before use.
When stored in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers, white rice can last 25-30 years. Brown rice, however, has a shorter shelf life due to its higher oil content.
Beans such as pinto, black, and navy beans can last 10-30 years when stored in a cool, dry place with oxygen absorbers.
Honey is known for its indefinite shelf life due to its natural antibacterial properties. It will get hard and crystallize, but with a little heat, it returns to liquid.
While sugar may harden over time, it can be softened easily by adding a touch of moisture. However, white sugar is prone to attracting weevils if not stored properly.