When you’re stocking your pantry, it’s helpful to know which foods can stay fresh for years, not just weeks or months. This makes it easier to plan meals, reduce waste, and always have reliable ingredients on hand.
Knowing which foods last a long time helps you save money and avoid frequent trips to the store. You don’t have to worry about expiration dates as often, so you can focus on cooking and enjoying your time in the kitchen.
White rice
You can store white rice for many years if you keep it in an airtight container. Make sure to place it in a cool, dry spot to prevent moisture.
Using oxygen absorbers can help extend its shelf life even more. When stored properly, white rice can last 20 to 30 years.
Avoid brown rice for long storage since it spoils faster due to its oil content. White rice is a reliable staple for your pantry.
Dried beans
Dried beans are a great pantry staple because they can last for years if stored properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place and use airtight containers to protect them from moisture and pests.
While they may lose some flavor or take longer to cook over time, they remain safe to eat for a long time. This makes dried beans a reliable option for meals anytime you need.
Honey
Honey is one of the few foods that can last indefinitely if stored properly. You can keep it in a sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Crystallization might happen over time, but that doesn’t mean it has gone bad. Simply warm the honey gently to return it to its liquid state.
Having honey in your pantry means you always have a natural sweetener on hand that won’t spoil.
Salt
Salt is one of the best pantry staples you can keep. It doesn’t spoil or lose its quality over time, so it can last indefinitely.
You can use salt not only for seasoning but also for preserving other foods. It helps retain flavor and prevents spoilage.
Make sure to store salt in a cool, dry place and keep it sealed to avoid moisture. This keeps it free-flowing and easy to use whenever you need it.
Sugar
Sugar is one of the easiest pantry staples to store for a long time. When kept dry and sealed, it can last for years without losing quality.
You don’t need to worry about it spoiling, but make sure to keep it away from moisture to avoid clumping.
Sugar is great to have on hand for baking, sweetening drinks, or even preserving fruits. It’s a simple ingredient that won’t let you down.
Rolled oats (unopened)
If you keep your rolled oats sealed and stored in a cool, dry place, they can last for years. The “best by” date is more about quality than safety, so your oats might still be good well past that.
Over time, oats can develop a slightly off taste if the natural oils start to go rancid. Check for any unusual smell or color before using them. Generally, unopened rolled oats are a reliable staple to keep on hand.
Quinoa (unopened)
You can keep unopened quinoa in your pantry for years if stored properly. It stays good longer when kept in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.
Even past its expiration date, quinoa usually remains safe to cook and eat. Just check for any unusual smell or visible signs of spoilage before using it.
Canned tuna
You can keep canned tuna in your pantry for 2 to 5 years if it stays unopened and stored in a cool, dry place. It’s a great source of protein that lasts much longer than fresh fish.
When you open a can, use the tuna within a few days and refrigerate leftovers. Proper storage helps you enjoy tuna safely long after purchase.
Canned chicken
Canned chicken is a convenient protein to keep in your pantry. It has a long shelf life, often lasting several years when stored in a cool, dry place.
You can use it in salads, sandwiches, or casseroles without worrying about it spoiling quickly. Just check the can for dents or rust before buying, as damaged cans can affect safety.
Canned salmon
Canned salmon is a great pantry staple that can last for several years when stored in a cool, dry place. It provides a good source of protein and omega-3 fats, which are important for your health.
You can use it in salads, sandwiches, or casseroles. Having canned salmon on hand means you have a nutritious option ready without worrying about spoilage.
Pasta (stored in glass jars)
You can extend the shelf life of pasta by storing it in glass jars with airtight lids. This keeps moisture and pests out, helping your pasta last several years.
Keep the jars in a cool, dark place away from heat sources like your stove. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the pasta from breaking down.
Using glass jars also makes it easy to see how much pasta you have, so your pantry stays organized and ready for your next meal.
Chia seeds
You can store chia seeds for several years if you keep them in a cool, dry place. Whole chia seeds typically last 2 to 5 years, depending on storage conditions.
If you freeze them, they can last even longer, up to 4 years or more. Just make sure to use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Ground chia seeds don’t last as long, usually around 2 to 4 years, so it’s best to keep them whole until you’re ready to use them.
Freeze-dried fruit
Freeze-dried fruit is a great option for your pantry because it lasts for years without refrigeration. It retains most of its nutrients and flavor, making it a convenient snack or addition to meals.
You can easily add it to cereals, yogurt, or trail mix. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid moisture. Freeze-dried fruit is lightweight and portable, perfect for emergencies or outdoor adventures.