History

• Nonperishable foods such as beans and grains have been found stored in ancient Egyptian pyramids and other burial sites around the world. As the canning process developed, fruits, vegetables and meats could be preserved for longer periods of time.
  
  

Types

• Most canned foods such as vegetables and fruits are considered to be nonperishable, provided that they are properly processed and the containers show no signs of leakage. Other foods include dried peas and beans and grain products such as wheat; barley and oats are also considered nonperishable. Some foods are vacuum-packed like tuna and tofu and can remain on the shelf for long periods of time. Big blocks of processed American cheese, often used in macaroni and cheese and melted dips, can remain on the shelf almost indefinitely. Pastas, including macaroni and spaghetti, will store for indefinite periods of time.
  
  

Considerations

• Nonperishable food items can be stocked up for emergencies or purchased when on sale to get a better price. Many retail outlets, both brick-and-mortar stores and online, offer discounts on larger purchases. Many nonperishable food items can be eaten straight from the can during an emergency situation such as a power outage, and many agencies, including the United Sates Department of Agriculture, recommend that households store at least a three-day food supply of nonperishable food.
  
  

Misconceptions

• While nonperishable food items require no refrigeration to store, they must be stored properly. They should be shelved in an area where the cans, boxes and pouches can remain dry. Items such as flour and other grains should be stored in airtight containers as mealybugs can infest an open box or bag ruining the contents.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• When purchasing large amounts of nonperishable foods in bulk, be sure you have room to store the items. Food-grade tubs or buckets can be purchased to store flour, grains and other items after the original packaging has been opened. All nonperishable food items should be used in a first-in/first-eaten rotation so that the item is used by the "best eaten by" date.