The idea of home food storage for most people has never crossed their minds. Convenience foods, take out or a quick trip to the corner grocery store satisfies our impulse for a bite to eat. However in today’s economy, the concept of home food storage is now more than ever at the forefront of people’s interest in order to save money. For those beginners at food storage it can be a vast undertaking as to where or how to start. Apartment dwellers or those with limited space may feel that it is impossible to have any type of pantry stock. A few of the following tips is all you will need to begin and from there the possibilities are endless.
Repackaged large quantities of dry goods into smaller containers or bags if bought in bulk then store in a closet, under the bed, or even an end table if there is no room in the kitchen. The main thing when storing food stuffs in an unusual area is to start a reminder list of what and where you have placed the items. It could be hung next to your grocery list or on the back of a cupboard so that you do not over buy one particular food and also have the opportunity to use it before it expires from a forgotten storage area.
Buy only items you will actually use. There is no sense in buying a 5 pound bag of beans if you rarely eat this item. Not only is this a waste of money but it will occupy the limited space you already have. If this is an item you use occasionally, buy the smaller bag. Should you have a network of friends and family check up front before buying that larger bag at the cheaper per pound price, if you can barter or trade someone a pound of beans for a pound of pasta.
Stock up on foods that can be used for multiple dishes and have a long shelf life. Buying three heads of lettuce because they are on sale is not going to make them last any longer than one. Additionally, even on a diet, one can only take so many salads in a week. On the other hand, the special buy one get one offer on a can of tuna can be used in salads, sandwiches or casseroles and has a long shelf life and takes minimal space.
It doesn’t have to be a daunting task to learn how to store or stock your pantry at home. Start small with your purchases and open your mind to the idea that food storage is not limited to the kitchen. A few tips and a little organization and you are on your way! The added plus to home food storage is that you may find that this will save you money in the long run.
