Why stock up on food? In our modern society, where supermarkets are on every corner, building a food supply may seem unnecessary. However, our food supply relies on fragile networks, and a simple disruption (economic crisis, transportation strike, natural disaster...) can lead to temporary shortages. Building a food stock is not about giving in to panic, but simply exercising common sense – a habit our grandparents naturally had. Here are 10 simple and effective tips to build reserves without stress or waste.
1. Determine your dietary needs
Before diving headfirst into grocery shopping, start by identifying what you actually need. A simple method is to:
Cook as usual for a week while noting everything you consume.
Buy only these foods and try to eat only that for a week.
Then multiply the quantities by four to get a stock covering a month.
This helps avoid unnecessary purchases and ensures you only stock foods you actually consume.
2. Store what you like to eat.
An effective stock should not be limited to survival products. The image of a bunker filled with freeze-dried canned goods that no one wants to eat is a common mistake.
If you have to dip into your reserves, you might as well have foods you enjoy! Rice, pasta, canned vegetables, soups, but also chocolate, coffee, or tea... Do not overlook the psychological aspect of a good meal during stressful times.
3. Prioritize ready-to-eat foods
In certain situations, cooking can be complicated (gas or electricity outage, lack of water). It is therefore essential to have a proportion of foods that can be consumed directly, such as:
- Canned goods (tuna, sardines, beans, soups)
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Biscuits and energy bars
- Canned meals like ravioli
Even if it's not always very appetizing, it remains a good alternative in case of emergency.
4. Build up your stock gradually
Buying a full stock at once can be a significant investment. A better method is to:
Set a monthly budget for supplies.
Prioritize purchasing products on sale.
Gradually complete your stock until you reach your goal.
This approach prevents straining your budget while ensuring steady progress.
5. Do not store excessively
Excessive stock can quickly become a problem:
Food has a limited shelf life (even canned goods).
You may not be able to consume everything in time.
Storage space is not infinite!
A supply covering 1 to 3 months is generally sufficient for most situations.
6. Manage the shelf life of food
Food products have expiration dates that need to be monitored:
Some dry foods (rice, pasta, lentils, sugar, honey) can be stored for years.
Canned goods generally last several years but should be kept away from heat and humidity.
Fresh and semi-fresh products (powdered milk, flour, oils) should be consumed more quickly.
Adopt the "First in, first out" rule: always consume the oldest foods before buying new ones.
7. Rotate your stock regularly
Don't let your stock sit unused in a cupboard! Use your reserves daily and replenish them as needed. This allows you to:
Avoid unnecessary waste.
Always have consumable products on hand.
Save on the food budget by taking advantage of promotions.
A little tip: organize your cupboards by placing the oldest items at the front and new purchases at the back.
8. Don't forget the water!
One can survive several weeks without eating, but only 48 hours without water. Plan for a minimum of 2 liters of water per day per person.
This can quickly add up to a significant volume: a family of 4 would need 240 liters to last a month!
If you lack space, store at least 10 days' worth of drinking water, and consider having a filtration or purification system (tablets, charcoal filters, etc.).
9. Season and vary the flavors
Eating plain pasta and rice for a month? Not very motivating… Don't overlook condiments and sauces:
- Salt, pepper, various spices
- Olive oil and vinegar
- Dried herbs and bouillon cubes
- Canned sauces (tomato, curry, pesto…)
This helps to avoid monotony and makes meals more enjoyable.
10. Treat yourself to a few extras
In times of crisis, morale is just as important as the food itself. Plan for some treats: chocolate, cookies, coffee, candy...
The key is to maintain a balance between essential food and little pleasures that lift the spirits.
a useful and smart stock
Building a food stockpile is nothing extraordinary: it's a healthy habit that ensures food security when needed. By following these 10 tips, you can have well-thought-out reserves without waste or unnecessary expenses.
And you, have you already started building your own food stockpile?