Extremely Long Shelf Life Foods
Here are some foods that will store very well and for extended periods of time, when stored correctly. Store somewhere cool and dry, and away from sunlight.
Salt (table salt, sea salt, salt crystals)
Indefinite shelf life. Can be used for seasoning or as a food preservative.
Sugar (white sugar, brown sugar, powdered sugar)
Indefinite shelf life. Does not support bacteria growth, cannot spoil. It might become rock hard.
Pure Honey
Indefinite shelf life. May change color or crystallize over time, but still very edible.
Pure Vanilla Extract
Indefinite shelf life. Must be 100% pure vanilla extract, not imitation.
Cornstarch
Indefinite shelf life, even after opening, if closed tightly between uses.
Hard Liquor (distilled spirits: vodka, rum, whiskey, gin, tequila...)
Indefinite shelf life, even after opening, if sealed tightly between uses.
Distilled White Vinegar
Indefinite shelf life, even after opening, if sealed tightly between uses.
Rice (white, wild, arborio, jasmine, basmati)
30+ year shelf life. Brown rice will not store nearly as long, due to its high oil content.
Hard Grains (red wheat, white wheat, buckwheat, durum wheat, corn, flax)
30+ year shelf life. Store cool, dry, and in an air tight container, free from contaminants.
Soft Grains (rye, barley, quinoa, groats, hulled/pearled oats, rolled oats)
10+ year shelf life. Store cool, dry, and in an air tight container, free from contaminants.
Pasta (spaghetti, macaroni, bow tie, spiral, shell, fetecinii, linguini, etc...)
10+ year shelf life. Store cool, dry, and in an air tight container, free from contaminants.
*Honorable mention
Twinkies
Supposedly, people have eaten Twinkies that are 20+ years old, and say they still taste great...
