6 Foods That Never (Or Almost Never) Expire
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Imagine being able to stock up on foods that will last you years, even decades, without ever going bad. Not only does this prepare you for emergencies, but it also gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a long-lasting food supply. These foods are the unsung heroes of your pantry, offering both practicality and versatility!
When you think of food storage, you might picture cans of soup, bags of rice, or jars of spices, but did you know there are certain foods that can outlive your most optimistic expectations? The ancient grains and naturally preserved proteins, here are six foods that practically never go bad when stored correctly.
Salt
Salt is more than just a seasoning—it’s a natural preservative that can last indefinitely. Pure salt, when kept in a dry, cool place and sealed in an airtight container, essentially never expires. While salt may lose some of its quality over time, especially in iodized varieties, it remains safe to consume.
It’s remarkable that some ancient salt deposits have been discovered and are still good after thousands of years! So next time you open an old salt container, don’t panic—your salt is likely just as good as it ever was.
Rolled Oats
If you’re looking for a food that’s both nutritious and nearly eternal, rolled oats should be at the top of your list. When stored in airtight containers in cool, dry environments, they can last for up to 30 years!
Their fiber-rich content provides a healthy way to start your day, and their ability to remain fresh for decades makes them a perfect pantry staple. Even if you’re not prepping for the apocalypse, oats are an excellent backup breakfast that will be there whenever you need them.
White Rice
White rice is the undisputed champion of long-lasting foods. Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, it can last up to 30 years without losing flavor or nutritional value. Whether you’re looking to prep for a long-term emergency or simply want to reduce the frequency of your grocery runs, white rice is a staple you’ll never regret stocking up on.
If you’re not in the mood for a 30-year supply, even at room temperature, white rice can easily last 2-5 years. Just keep an eye out for any damage to the packaging, such as holes or moisture, which could affect the rice’s longevity.
Honey
Honey is often described as the only food that will never spoil, and there’s a scientific reason for that. Archaeologists have found honey in ancient Egyptian tombs, and after thousands of years, it was still safe to eat. Honey’s shelf life is essentially infinite because of its natural composition.
The high acidity, low moisture content, and natural preservatives in honey make it impervious to spoilage. So, stock up on honey and use it to sweeten your tea or drizzle over your oats—it will always be fresh.
Dried Beans
Dried beans like kidney beans, lentils, and black beans can last for decades when stored in airtight containers in a dark, cool place. Studies have shown that some dried beans can remain perfectly edible after 30 years, maintaining more than 80% of their flavor and nutritional content.
Whether you’re stocking up for long-term survival or simply love beans, these protein-packed powerhouses will always come through for you.
Sugar
Though sugar may not have the romance of honey, it’s no less remarkable when it comes to shelf life. Pure granulated sugar, whether derived from cane or beet, will last indefinitely when stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
Though most sugars are marked with a “best by” date, it is usually more of a quality guideline than an expiration date. In reality, sugar has no expiration date and can last forever if kept away from moisture and contaminants.
Key Takeaways
Building a pantry with foods that never—or almost never—expire offers both convenience and peace of mind. Whether you’re planning for long-term storage or just looking for a few extra months of shelf life, the foods on this list are versatile, nutritious, and incredibly practical.
From honey to rice and beans to canned fish, you can rest easy knowing your pantry will remain stocked with nutritious meals for years to come.
