While we are right to worry about food spoilage, here are 8 foods that last forever…or at least for a really long time!
Long live the foods that last forever. There is so much waste these days with fresh produce to dairy products that have unfortunately gone past their expiration date. But when these items are stored properly they can last forever. Here are just 8 foods that will live long and prosper in your food pantry and cupboards.
8 Foods That Last Forever
1. Honey. As long as honey is stored in a tightly sealed jar or container and in a dark place, it will have a very long shelf life. Do not store in the refrigerator and avoid humidity since this will cause crystallization.
2. Sugar. No matter how long you have sugar in your pantry, it will not spoil. Use any granulated, confectionary, or brown sugar that has been sealed in an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place.
3. Vinegar. If vinegar is stored in a cool, dark place and in it’s original sealed bottle, it can last forever due to it’s acidic and preserving nature.
4. Cornstarch. If it is kept dry and does not come in contact with any moisture, cornstarch can remain in your pantry for years.
5. 100% Maple syrup. When bought 100% pure, this amazing syrup can last for years to come, especially if stored in the freezer. If it’s unopened, just store in your cupboard or pantry, but keep it in the refrigerator once it’s opened.
6. Pure vanilla extract. Due to it’s alcohol base, this baking ingredient definitely has no expiration date and can last forever. Always store in a cool, dark area, such as your pantry or kitchen cupboard. The only change that could occur is a more intense flavor once it is opened.
7. Soy sauce. Due to it’s level of sodium, soy sauce is unlikely to grow any microorganisms. If stored in an airtight container (and in the fridge if you don’t think it will get used quickly), just keep in a cool, dark place and it will last a long time.
8. Dried beans. Beans can be a long-lasting staple when stored in a cool, dry place. When not exposed to light or oxygen, dried beans can last indefinitely. Although, sometimes older beans could require some additional soaking and cooking.
So when you are on a cleaning spree, don’t toss out these long-lasting items just because they’ve been around for awhile. As long as they are stored correctly, they will be there for you for years to come.
More Ways to Reduce Food Waste
7 Ways to Reduce Food Waste at Home
Fridge Tricks to Reduce Food Waste and Save Electricity
Steph teaches her readers how to live on less at debtfreespending.com!
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Cheryl says
All good to know! I only use cornstarch around Christmas when making shortbread and I keep it in the freezer. So far so good, about 3 years now!
carla w. says
thanks, this is a life-saver for me and my family!