While you’re writing up your next shopping list (or planning your next Instacart delivery), try adding some long-lasting and healthy non-perishable items to help keep your pantry stocked (and easy meal options at the ready)!
The practical foods on our list are non-perishable, which means they have a much longer shelf life than fresh produce. This doesn’t mean that they’ll never go bad — everything has a shelf life — but they will certainly last for months, if not years (see below for more information on that). Having long-lasting goods in your pantry helps you save freezer and fridge space and easily feed a crowd in a pinch.
Kate Merker, Chief Food Director at Good Housekeeping, recommends checking out the label before buying just any old canned or packaged product to make sure it’s a healthier option. “For all canned food, aim for no or low sodium options when available and plan on rinsing anything that comes out of the can.”
Our Favorite Non-Perishable Foods:
- Peanut butter — Sweet, creamy, and packed with fiber and protein, peanut butter makes a great snack or dessert. Plus, it lasts. Commercial peanut butter can keep for up to 9 months at room temperature. And why stop at peanuts? Try some almond butter and cashew butter to change it up.
- Canned or dried beans — There’s so much you can do with these versatile legumes, whether they’re canned or dried. “I started with lentils because when I make tacos, chili, or meat sauce, I often go half and half of each,” said Kate. “We have already turned our canned white beans into a dip for carrots, added to cucumbers to bulk out a side dish, and tossed with pasta.” Canned beans kept at room temperature are good for 2–5 years, while dried beans packaged correctly can last indefinitely.
- Shelf-stable produce — Yes, you can grab some veggies that will last without shopping in the frozen food section. “Think root vegetables and pick a couple that you know everyone will like,” says Kate. “Sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, and turnips are all great options because they all can be cooked up as a side or incorporated into the main dish.” Root vegetables can stay fresh for months, as opposed to days.
- Granola Bars — Simple but filling, these pre-packed bars are a great on-the-go breakfast. However, not all granola bars are created equal — make sure you check the label and opt for a low sugar brand. Depending on the brand, granola bars can last about 6 to 8 months.
- Dried Fruit — Dried fruit has all the nutrients and soluble fiber of their fresh counterparts, but they can last stored at room temperature for up to 1 year. Try making your own with a food dehydrator.
- Canned tuna — Tuna may the most popular, but other canned meats like salmon, chicken, or turkey are all great sources of protein that will keep at room temperature for up to five years.
- Canned soup — Canned soups are a great choice to stock up on — especially if you’re a craving a spoonful of comfort food. Canned soups will keep at room temperature for up to five years, but to avoid a sodium overload, make sure you stick to these healthy brands.
- Shelf-stable milk — Unlike fresh milk, shelf-stable milk doesn’t have to be refrigerated, and it lasts much longer. The shelf life of shelf-stable dairy milk is about 9 months — though canned coconut milk is the true MVP with a shelf life of up to five years.
- Nuts and seeds — The shelf life of these bite-sized, protein-filled snacks depends on the nut, but pumpkin seeds and cashews are particularly long lasting. Add some dried fruit for a little DIY trail mix.
- Canned vegetables — “My favorite canned veggie to stock up on is the almighty artichoke, which I toss with olive oil and parmesan cheese and roast until crisp — they’re SO good,” says Kate. “I also have beets which can make my white bean or chickpea dip pink and give me some extra mom points.” Low-acid canned vegetables have a shelf life of 2–5 years at room temperature.
Source : Goodhousekeeping
