Whether you’re on a budget or looking to make healthy food choices for your family, you’ll find shelf-stable food preps in the interior aisles of the grocery store. Try to avoid the outer aisles, which are usually filled with sugary and processed foods. Instead, choose products with a shelf life of over a few months.
First In, First Out method
The FIFO (First In, First Out) method is a powerful and straightforward concept for prepping. It enables you to create a natural surplus of non-perishable foods, daily consumables, toiletries, batteries, and more. The FIFO method works best when you combine it with a list of the items you need to purchase at the grocery store.
Start by keeping an inventory of your food storage items. Update it regularly as you add items to your storage. As you rotate out items, use colored labels to mark them. When using the FIFO method, rotate food to minimize waste. You can also use the First In, First Out method to ensure you are never short of fresh produce.
Avoid inner aisles
It’s best to shop in the inner aisles instead of the perimeter for shelf-stable foods. This will help you avoid the processed, sugary foods often in outer aisles. In the inner aisles, you’ll discover shelf-stable foods and healthy snacks. While the store’s perimeter may have the most fresh produce, it’s not always the most nutritious option.
Oils provide fast energy.
Choosing the right ones is essential if you use oils to make food and prepare your meals for SHTF. Choose the ones that last the longest, but remember that they may not be healthy. Some fats are hydrogenated and can cause health problems. Some people prefer to use a combination of oils. The order in which you use them may differ, depending on the type of oil and its growing conditions.
Cereals provide fiber
In 2008, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) released a position paper on the role of dietary fiber in preventing chronic disease. In the position paper, they recommended that adults include adequate amounts of fiber in their diets. According to the paper, dietary fibers have a synergistic effect that helps protect against chronic disease. However, the isolated fibers found in highly processed cereals may not provide the same health benefits as the fiber that is found in whole plant foods. Whole grain products like oats, barley, quinoa, and rye are known to be good sources of fiber.
When selecting cereals for shtf food preps, clients should look for the word “whole” on the ingredient label. They should also avoid products that contain large amounts of added sugar or hydrogenated oils. Even dried fruit cereals may have sugar or sodium. Thus, choosing a high-quality cereal must be a priority.
Cereals provide considerable amounts of fiber. It is, therefore, essential to select a cereal that contains whole grains that are well-balanced in protein and carbohydrates. While cereals may not taste the best, they can help people keep their energy levels up and avoid cravings for high-calorie, high-fat foods. Cereals can also be convenient, as they can be taken anywhere.
Cereals should be prepared according to the American Heart Association’s recommendations for added sugar in women and 30 grams for men. Cereals that contain low levels of added sugar may be mixed with cereals with higher levels of protein and fiber. The ideal cereals contain 3 to 5 grams of fiber per serving and are free of artificial flavors and colors. They may also be sweetened with natural sweeteners.
Apple cider vinegar provides fast energy.
Apple cider vinegar is a natural cure-all packed with antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. It is also inexpensive and readily available. It is also a great source of energy. In addition to being nutritious, it gives you a quick boost of energy, making it the perfect supplement to any food prep plan.
Apple cider vinegar kills bacteria and viruses and prevents food from turning brown. A simple way to use it to cleanse your dishes is to combine 24 ounces of water and two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. If you wish, you can add honey or sugar to sweeten the drink. You can also add unsulfur molasses for an added iron boost. Do not heat the mixture because it destroys healthy enzymes and reduces the health benefits.
Another health benefit of apple cider vinegar is that it is a natural prebiotic. It promotes the growth of healthy gut flora, making your digestive system work better. Take apple cider vinegar if you’ve ever had an upset stomach or trouble digesting a meal. The liquid’s antibacterial properties make it an excellent choice for those with digestive issues.
Another valuable use of apple cider vinegar is as a natural deodorizer. Due to its high acidity, it neutralizes odors. A cotton ball or spray bottle can be applied to the skin. Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.