Imagine a sudden storm knocks out power for weeks, or maybe a job loss makes grocery trips difficult. How would your family eat? Thinking about long-term food security can feel overwhelming, almost like a scary “what if” scenario. But preparing for the unexpected is smart, not scary.
Choosing the right long-term food storage company adds another layer of worry. Should you pick the one with the cheapest price? The one with the longest shelf life? Comparing ingredients, checking for allergens, and understanding delivery times can turn simple planning into a headache. You want reliable, nutritious food without wasting hours researching.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great food storage provider. You will learn the key questions to ask before spending any money, ensuring you invest wisely in your family’s peace of mind.
Ready to secure your pantry with confidence? Let’s dive into the details of finding the perfect long-term food storage partner for you.
Top Long Term Food Storage Company Recommendations
Bestseller No. 1
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply - 120 Servings Favorites Sample Bucket, Survival Food Kit, Freeze Dried Prepper Food & Dehydrated Meals for Camping Essentials & Backpacking, up to 25 Year Shelf Life
- THE ULTIMATE SURVIVAL ESSENTIAL: With 120 servings of entrées meals, ReadyWise Grab & Go Bucket is the perfect starting point for anyone serious about preparing for the future. Stay ready for anything, from power outages to outdoor adventures!
- STORED FOR THE FUTURE: Our bucket offers up to 25 years of shelf life, ensuring your emergency food supply stays fresh. Plus, its stackable design fits conveniently in your pantry, car, or backpack, making it ideal for long term food storage.
- ULTRA CONVENIENT: The split bucket lid is a game changer! It gives you quick access to your emergency food pouches and doubles as a tray and food holder for your servings. Just add water and enjoy a delicious premade meal! Yes, it's that easy!
- ENJOY NUTRITIOUS MEALS: Our emergency supplies offer convenience and tasty, nutrient rich options, including Cheesy Macaroni, Lasagna, Teriyaki Rice, and Chicken Flavored Noodle Soup! Perfect for travel necessities, as well as home and kitchen use.
- OUTDOOR & HOME EMERGENCY: Our meals are your new ally for backpacking supplies or easy freeze dried food storage to keep you fueled during unexpected events or satisfy your craving for a delicious meal. Prepper with READYWISE!
Bestseller No. 2
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply - 360 Servings, 3 Buckets, Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Package of Long Term Meals, Survival Kit for Camping, Prepper Food Storage Supplies, up to 25 Year Shelf Life
- SURVIVAL ESSENTIAL: With 360 servings of gourmet entrées & breakfast meals, READYWISE Buckets are the perfect starting point for anyone serious about preparing for the future. Stay ready for anything, from power outages to outdoor adventures!
- FUTURE-READY: Our buckets offer up to 25 years of shelf life, ensuring your emergency food supply stays fresh. Plus, its stackable design fits conveniently in your pantry, car, or backpack & bug out bag, making it ideal for long term food storage.
- ULTRA CONVENIENT: Our split bucket lid is a game changer! It gives you quick access to your emergency food pouches and doubles as a tray and food holder for your servings. Just add water and enjoy a delicious premade meal! Yes, it's that easy!
- PREPPER MEALS: Our survival kit offers tasty and nutrient rich options, including Cheesy Macaroni, Lasagna, Pasta Alfredo, Brown Sugar & Maple Multi Grain Cereal, 1 bonus pouch of Maple Flavored Syrup, & more to enhance your outdoor meals reliably.
- DISASTER READINESS: Our storable buckets are your new ally for backpacking supplies or easy freeze dried food storage to keep you fueled during unexpected events or extended camping and outdoor trips. Prepper with READYWISE Grab & Go Buckets!
Bestseller No. 3
Ready Hour 120 Serving Entree Bucket-Freeze Dried Emergency Food Supply-Survival Meals with Long Shelf Life-Prepper Essentials for Disaster, Camping, Hiking, or Outdoor Use
- TASTES GREAT: Ready Hour freeze-dried food is designed for emergencies but tasty enough for everyday use.
- BE PREPARED: The world is unpredictable. Be ready for anything with our durable and flood-safe container which features a convenient handle for easy transport. Requires no refrigeration.
- LASTS UP TO 25 YEARS: Includes up to 120 total servings. Can be stored anywhere that offers a cool and dry environment.
- USE ONLY WHAT YOU NEED: Made for multiple uses; includes 22 resealable pouches that let you use only what you need and save the rest for later. Re-sealed pouches last up to a year.
- MADE IN THE USA from domestic and imported goods: We proudly manufacture and pack our foods in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Bestseller No. 4
Valley Food Storage Long Term Food Supply Kit | 12 Buckets Emergency Survival Food with 75g+ Daily Protein & 1,800+ Calories | 25 Year Shelf Life, Prepper Supplies for Disaster Preparedness
- COMPLETE 12-BUCKET EMERGENCY FOOD SUPPLY KIT: Includes twelve durable buckets containing a full assortment of breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals designed for long-term emergency preparedness. Ideal for families, long-term food storage planning, survival situations, off-grid living, and disaster readiness.
- PREMIUM QUALITY INGREDIENTS: All Valley Food Storage meals are made with simple, authentic ingredients and no unnecessary fillers or added junk. Designed to deliver dependable nutrition you can trust during emergencies, extended storage, or daily backup use.
- 25-YEAR SHELF LIFE FOR LONG-TERM STORAGE: This survival food kit is shelf stable for up to 25 years when properly stored, providing peace of mind that your emergency food supply is ready whenever you need it for disasters, camping, or preparedness planning.
- FAST & EASY PREPARATION: Just add water to prepare hearty meals in minutes. Simple preparation makes this kit ideal for emergency situations, camping trips, power outages, and off-grid living without sacrificing convenience or nutrition.
- DURABLE, SPACE-EFFICIENT STORAGE SOLUTION: Meals are sealed in heavy-duty resealable mylar pouches and stored inside stackable, water-resistant 5-gallon buckets with secure lids and handles. Designed for efficient storage in garages, closets, basements, RVs, and shelters.
Bestseller No. 5
Valley Food Storage Premium Protein Bucket | Freeze Dried Meat & Dairy | 85 Servings, 1,052g Protein | Emergency Food Supply with 25 Year Shelf Life | Prepper Food for Camping & Long-Term Storage
- HIGH-PROTEIN EMERGENCY FOOD ASSORTMENT: A balanced protein-focused food supply featuring freeze dried meats and dairy to support strength, energy, and nutrition during emergencies, food storage planning, camping, or off-grid living.
- PREMIUM QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Made with simple, authentic ingredients and no unnecessary fillers or added junk. Valley Food Storage products are designed to deliver dependable nutrition you can trust when preparing for emergencies or daily backup use.
- 25-YEAR SHELF LIFE FOR LONG-TERM STORAGE: Shelf stable for up to 25 years when properly stored, ensuring your emergency food supply is ready whenever disaster strikes or preparedness needs arise.
- FAST & EASY PREPARATION: Just add water to rehydrate meals quickly and easily. Simple preparation makes this kit ideal for emergency situations, camping trips, RV travel, and off-grid environments.
- DURABLE, SPACE-EFFICIENT STORAGE SOLUTION: All food is sealed in heavy-duty resealable mylar pouches and stored inside a water-resistant, stackable 5-gallon bucket with secure lid and handle for organized, long-term storage.
Bestseller No. 6
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply - 720 Servings, 6 Buckets, Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Package of Long Term Meals, Survival Kit for Camping, Prepper Food Storage Supplies, up to 25 Year Shelf Life
- SURVIVAL ESSENTIAL: With 720 servings of gourmet entrées & breakfast meals, READYWISE Buckets are the perfect starting point for anyone serious about preparing for the future. Stay ready for anything, from power outages to outdoor adventures!
- FUTURE-READY: Our buckets offer up to 25 years of shelf life, ensuring your emergency food supply stays fresh. Plus, its stackable design fits conveniently in your pantry, car, backpack, or bug out bag, making it ideal for long term food storage.
- ULTRA CONVENIENT: Our split bucket lid is a game changer! It gives you quick access to your emergency food pouches and doubles as a tray and food holder for your servings. Just add water and enjoy a delicious premade meal! Yes, it's that easy!
- PREPPER MEALS: Our survival kit offers tasty and nutrient rich options, including Cheesy Macaroni, Lasagna, Pasta Alfredo, Brown Sugar & Maple Multi Grain Cereal, 3 bonus pouches of Maple Flavored Syrup, & more to enhance your outdoor meals reliably.
- DISASTER READINESS: Our storable buckets are your new ally for backpacking supplies or easy freeze dried food storage to keep you fueled during unexpected events or extended camping and outdoor trips. Prepper with READYWISE Grab & Go Buckets!
Bestseller No. 7
Augason Farms Vegetable Medley Blend Can - Dehydrated Mixed Veggies - Gluten Free Emergency Food Supply with Long Shelf Life for Survival, Disaster Prep & Everyday Meals - 131 Servings
- Wholesome Vegetable Blend: Augason Farms offers a hearty mix of potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, and peppers perfect for soups, stews, and casseroles. No washing, peeling, or chopping needed just quick, nutritious flavor in every scoop.
- Great for Emergency & Everyday Use: Lightweight and compact, this blend is made for long-term storage. Even for crisis prep or everyday cooking, it’s a trusted staple among dehydrated supplies that’s ready to use whenever you need it.
- No Refrigeration, No Problem: Unlike dehydrated vegetables, this dry mix requires no cold storage. Just add hot water and watch it come to life. A dependable choice for campers, hikers and busy kitchens alike it’s a pantry essential.
- Quick & Versatile for Daily Meals: Save time while boosting flavor. Ideal as dried vegetables for soup, noodles, stews or stir-fry, it rehydrates quickly and adds texture and taste to any meal without extra effort.
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Shelf-Stable: Certified gluten-free and lasts up to 25 years. Whether for daily meals or emergency prep, this dehydrated vegetable blend is a dependable way to add nutrition and flavor anytime you need it.
Bestseller No. 8
Hard White Wheat Berries : Wheatland™ : 25 lb Bulk: Emergency Preparedness : Mylar : Oxygen Absorber : 30 Year Shelf Life : Non GMO: NO Glyphosate : Long Term Food Storage
- REAL FOOD FOR A BETTER LIFE: For over 40 years we have helped families prepare for the days ahead. Our powerfully nutritious real foods have just one ingredient like wheat, lentils or pinto beans, no additives of any kind.
- GROWN BY FAMILY FARMERS: Our foods are grown by family farmers (most in Utah and Idaho) then cleaned and packaged in our state-of-the-art food plant. We are selective. We don’t rely on a single-family farm. Rather we work with many family farmers to select only the best-of-harvest, chemical-free foods.
- PACKED TO LAST: The food inside our buckets is sealed in Mylar with oxygen absorbers—a method tested by food scientists (who also work with the US military's foods) to provide a 30-year shelf life. Less reliable methods (gamma sealed bucket lids or rubber gaskets alone) tend to degrade over time, allowing air and moisture penetration, food decay and weevil infestation. Our Mylar can be opened then quickly heat-sealed, providing access to your foods over the years without losing freshness.
- NON-GMO & SPROUTABLE: Our products are Non-GMO Project Verified… and as a certified seed dealer we know the varietal genetics on all our seed. So you can plant your wheat berries or beans, harvest them and replenish your storage. Or you can sprout our products for a powerful nutritional boost if fresh vegetables are in short supply.
- BAKING QUALITY: our foods are of the highest baking quality. For example, we lab test our wheats to insure they have the dough strength, elasticity and water retention capacity to produce great yeast breads and sourdoughs. We also home test all of our products to insure you’ll get great results.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Long Term Food Storage Companies
Preparing for emergencies or just wanting peace of mind is smart. Buying food for the long term requires a little homework. This guide helps you pick the best food storage company for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for long-term food storage, certain features really matter. You want food that lasts a long time and keeps you healthy.
Shelf Life and Durability
- Check the Expiration Date: Good companies offer food that lasts 25 years or more. This means less worry for you.
- Packaging Strength: The containers must be strong. Thick Mylar bags inside sturdy buckets are a good sign.
Nutritional Value
- Balanced Meals: Look for complete meal kits, not just staples like rice. The food should have protein, carbs, and fats.
- Vitamin Retention: Good storage methods keep vitamins from breaking down quickly. Read the labels to see if they list important vitamins.
Variety and Taste
- Menu Choices: You don’t want to eat the same thing for years! See how many different meals they offer.
- Customer Reviews on Taste: Taste is important. If you won’t eat it, it’s just expensive storage.
Important Materials in Your Food Storage
The materials used to make the food and package it directly affect how long it lasts.
Food Ingredients
- Low Moisture Content: Foods with very little water last much longer. This is why dried beans and freeze-dried items are top choices.
- Real Food Ingredients: Avoid huge amounts of fillers or artificial colors. Simple, recognizable ingredients are better.
Packaging Materials
- Mylar Bags: These bags are the standard for long-term storage. They block light, oxygen, and moisture.
- Oxygen Absorbers: These small packets remove the air inside the container. Oxygen causes food to go bad faster. A good kit always includes these.
- Durable Buckets: Food stored in Mylar bags should go into tough, food-grade plastic buckets. These protect against pests and crushing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
How the company handles its products makes a big difference in the final quality you receive.
Quality Boosters
- Freeze-Drying Technology: This process removes water while keeping most of the food’s shape and nutrients. It’s the best method for long-term food.
- Sourcing: Companies that use ingredients grown in the US often have better quality control standards.
Quality Reducers
- Heat Exposure During Processing: Too much heat during packaging destroys vitamins. Look for companies that emphasize low-heat processing.
- Improper Sealing: If the seal on the bucket or bag is weak, moisture gets in. This drastically shortens the shelf life.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you are buying this food and how easy it is to use when the time comes.
Ease of Preparation
- Simple Cooking Steps: In an emergency, you might not have much fuel or time. Food that only needs boiling water is very user-friendly.
- Portion Control: Kits that are pre-portioned make meal planning simple during a crisis.
Use Cases
- Emergency Preparedness: This is the main reason. You need food that works after a natural disaster or power outage.
- Camping/Hunting: Some smaller kits are great for long trips where you need lightweight, non-perishable meals.
- Budgeting for the Future: Some people buy smaller amounts regularly to build a stock over time instead of one huge purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Long Term Food Storage
Q: How much food should I buy per person?
A: Most experts suggest planning for at least three meals per day for the number of days you want to cover (e.g., 72 hours, one month, or one year). Companies often sell kits based on 30-day or 90-day supplies.
Q: Is “all-in-one” storage better than buying individual ingredients?
A: All-in-one kits are easier to store and use right away. Buying individual ingredients might save a little money, but it requires you to buy your own buckets, Mylar bags, and oxygen absorbers.
Q: What is the difference between dehydrated and freeze-dried food?
A: Dehydrated food has most of its water removed, often using heat. Freeze-dried food has the water frozen and then removed under a vacuum, which keeps more nutrients and tastes closer to fresh food.
Q: Can I store this food in my garage?
A: A cool, dark, and dry place is best. Garages can get very hot in the summer. High heat breaks down food quality fast. Keep it inside your house if possible, away from direct sunlight.
Q: Do I need to rotate my stock?
A: If you buy food with a 25+ year shelf life, you likely do not need to rotate it yearly. However, it is smart to check the seals every few years to make sure nothing has been damaged.
Q: Are these meals ready to eat right out of the bag?
A: Most long-term storage meals require adding boiling water and letting them sit for 10 to 20 minutes. Very few items are truly ready-to-eat without any preparation.
Q: What about the cost? Is it expensive?
A: Long-term food storage is an investment. It costs more upfront than weekly groceries, but when you divide the cost by the 25 years the food lasts, the daily cost becomes quite low.
Q: Does the food contain GMOs?
A: This varies by company. If this is important to you, you must specifically look for labels stating “Non-GMO” or “Organic.”
Q: What if I have allergies?
A: Always check the full ingredient list. Many companies offer allergen-free lines (like gluten-free or nut-free), but you must actively search for those specific options.
Q: How long does shipping take, and does the food arrive fresh?
A: Shipping times vary. Good companies ship food that was recently produced, ensuring you get the maximum possible shelf life when it arrives at your door.