It is important to remember fruits and vegetables should be included in your year’s supply of food. There are several different ways that you can store fruits and vegetables and you should store your fruits and vegetables in a combination of the listed methods.
1) Storing canned fruits and vegetables is most likely the commonest way to store fruits and vegetables. Canned foods have a relatively long shelf life. They are easy to purchase and to store. Many times canned goods go on sale in January and February every year. Canned foods are also easy to prepare.
2) Storing freeze-dried fruits and vegetables in another popular option. The food retains most of its nutritional value and the taste is pretty much the same. You can also find items that have been freeze dried which are difficult to find canned (i.e. broccoli, strawberries, and blueberries). Sugar has not been added to these items, which is an added health benefit. You will need to make sure that you store enough water to reconstitute the food if necessary.
3) You can also store dehydrated fruits and vegetables. These can make good snacks, as well as being reconstituted to eat. Freeze-dried foods are healthier and reconstitute quicker, so for most items it may be best to go with the freeze dried option, but you may enjoy storing banana chips, apple slices and fruit leather.
4) You may also consider storing frozen fruit and vegetables in your food storage. You lose very few nutrients in this storing process. The taste is great. You will need to have a large freezer on hand, so that you will have enough room to store these items. It is also a good idea to have a backup power source for your freezer.
5) You should also consider storing seeds for your garden. This can allow you to have food for several years, especially if you save the seeds from year to year. You should also consider planting a few fruit bearing trees in your yard, because you can enjoy the added benefit of fresh fruit every year.