How to Bulk Foods for Food Pantries
When you are on a budget buying bulk food for food pantries can help you save money. There are certain foods that are better to buy in bulk than others, as some foods have a longer shelf life. Fortunately, there are many foods that can be purchased in bulk that you can have on hand on those days when money is low.
- Purchase dried beans in bulk. Beans have a very long shelf life and there are many things you can do with them. There are many different kinds of beans, such as pinto beans, black beans, lima beans, etc. You can keep dried beans in your pantry for up to one year, as long as they are kept dry. They are also very healthy as they are high in protein.
- Purchased canned goods in bulk for your pantry. Canned goods are not as good as fresh but they still have nutrients. They will last up to two years on a pantry shelf, if unopened.
- Purchase paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins in bulk. These items will last many years as long as they are kept in a dry place.
- Buy drinks in bulk for your pantry. Canned drinks, such as apple juice, can last up to 5 years if unopened. Bottled water can last indefinitely if stored in a cooled place out of the sunlight and left unopened.
- Purchase dried food items for your pantry. For example, Baking soda and powder has a shelf life of 18 months, boxed cereals for 6 months, flour and cake mixes one year, bread crumbs six months, pancake mix six months, pasta up to two years, instant potatoes 18 months, and white rice up to two years.