Food

• 32 Long Shelf Life Foods to Keep In Your Pantry

  Long shelf life foods are pantry staples. Keep these on hand for years (or even decades!).

  Don’t you just hate reaching into the cupboard and realizing that box of cake mix has expired or your favorite snack is past its prime? Certain pantry items just don’t seem to last as long as we like. However, there are plenty of long shelf life foods perfect for filling your cupboards. Foods like these are great to have on hand for everyday cooking, of course, but also times when you just can’t get out of the house.

  Many foods with long shelf lives are the basics—think rice, grains and salt—but others can last for a long time because they’re dried or canned. These techniques can extend the usefulness of all kinds of foods.

• 6 TOP Crops to Grow at Home to Save You From STARVING

  Here is a great video from Self Sufficient Me's channel. It's not only very informative, it's also quite humorous.

  12.5 minutes that are well worth the time.

   

   

• Barter and Trade Essentials After SHTF

  I. Introduction

  In an ever-changing world, the concept of preparedness has taken on new dimensions. The unpredictable nature of disasters and societal disruptions has led many to consider alternative strategies for survival beyond the conventional. One such strategy that has gained traction among preppers and survivalists is the utilization of bug-out sailboats. These seaworthy vessels not only provide a means of escape and mobility in times of crisis but also serve as a unique platform for one of the most critical aspects of survival: barter and trade.

  A New Dawn of Exchange

  When disaster strikes and the delicate threads of modern society unravel, the value of traditional currency can swiftly diminish. As supply chains crumble and the availability of goods becomes uncertain, communities are forced to rediscover age-old methods of trade and exchange. In this brave new world, bartering is resurrected as a cornerstone of survival. Items that were once taken for granted – food, water, shelter, and even knowledge – take on new significance as the currency of this changed landscape.

  Navigating the Barter Seas

  Enter the bug-out sailboat, a vessel uniquely poised to navigate the uncharted waters of post-SHTF (S**it Hits The Fan) scenarios. These sailboats offer more than just a means of escape – they provide a versatile platform for barter and trade. With the ability to move swiftly along coastlines and between isolated communities, sailboats become the lifeblood of commerce in a world where overland travel might be treacherous or impractical.

• Easy Homemade Ginger Beer - The Old Fashioned Way

  Ginger is a spice perfect for any time of year. Its fragrance can perk up everything from chai tea to apple pie. This humble root can also add a gentle kick of heat to stir-fries or soups.

  The natural yeasts in the root can also be used to kick start a bubbly ginger beer. Give it a try!

  Here is the recipe we use on our catamaran to make fresh Homemade Ginger Beer

• Essential Survival Skills for a Collapse: Beyond Guns and Self-Defense

  When we imagine a world thrown into chaos by an economic collapse or social anarchy, it’s tempting to think that guns and self-defense would be the most important tools for survival. However, history, particularly the experience of the Great Depression, teaches us that while security is important, the skills needed to survive—and even thrive—are much broader. Practical, everyday survival skills, such as cooking, sewing, and agriculture, were essential in the 1930s, and would be just as valuable today in the event of a societal breakdown.

  In this article, we’ll explore the most important skills you would need to sustain yourself and your community if modern conveniences disappeared.

• Handline Fishing Tips for Offshore Sailors

  Handline fishing is a skill that all other cruising sailors should acquaint themselves with.

  Don't be put off by the word 'handline' - you don't have to hold it all the time. Just wait until a hooked fish announces its predicament, then haul it in.

  We're not talking about sport fishing here - sailboat fishing is all about catching fish to eat.

  And there's more good news...

  You won't need any expensive rods and reels.

  Handline fishing gear is simple, robust and inexpensive.

  Once you've tasted your first handline-caught fish - whether caught while sailing offshore or at anchor - I'm pretty sure you'll agree that the investment was cheap indeed.

• Here's How to Clean a Fish Quickly and Thoroughly

  Knowing how to clean a fish properly is essential for anyone wishing to cook their catch, because if the gut isn't fully removed any bacteria left in it will rapidly cause the flesh to deteriorate.

  And this could be really bad news, because if you eat the contaminated flesh you risk getting a dose of stromboid poisoning - which is not something you'll forget in a hurry.

  OK, so you've killed the fish humanely and it now lies lifeless on your chopping board.

  Now we're ready to commence the finning, scaling and gutting process.

  Got all your equipment to hand?

• Low Cost Food Storage Ideas for New Preppers. Here’s How To Do It Yourself and Save!

  Guest article by Ben W

  In today’s economic climate, finances are a major concern for everyone, but doubly so for the prepper or survivalist. Not only are we trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy in our everyday lives, we are also attempting to put together a “kit” for another lifestyle altogether, a kit that will keep us alive when everything falls apart.

  Generally, the first items purchased by a prepper are foodstuffs, and these preps can be made slowly and relatively inexpensively, over a long period of time, or one can bite the bullet and spend a fortune to “prep” quickly, and in today’s socio-economic climate, quickly is the byword.

  This usually involves purchasing ready made and assembled food packs from some company offering a 5-gallon survival pail sufficient to feed you for anywhere from 3 weeks to six months, or by buying surplus MRE’s. Both of these are good options, but you are paying for convenience and there is a better and much less expensive option.

  Having been a long time prepper, 25+ years, I was into long term food storage at a time when options were few: Foods packaged for campers, very expensive, and MRE’s, always surplus and also fairly expensive.

• Make Cleaning Fish Easy by Using the Right Tools and the Best Methods

   

  Cleaning fish is probably the least enjoyable part of the catch-clean-cook-eat process, but it must be done.

  If you learn the best methods and use the right tools, cleaning fish is much easier than it might otherwise be.

  And it's important to get it right - after all, you’re going to eat it.

  So here we'll take a look not just at the cleaning and gutting techniques, but also at the preparation for cooking.

  First though, the fish must be killed quickly to avoid any unnecessary suffering.

• Prepping on a Budget: Tips for Economical Disaster Preparedness

  In today’s uncertain world, being prepared is crucial, especially when it comes to disasters and emergencies. Whether you're a seasoned prepper or just beginning your journey toward disaster readiness, the cost of supplies can sometimes be prohibitive. However, with careful planning and strategic budgeting, you can significantly reduce expenses while still ensuring that you have the necessary resources for survival. This article provides practical tips for prepping on a budget, helping you to create a robust emergency kit without breaking the bank.

  Assess Your Needs

  The first step in any preparedness plan is assessing your specific needs. What are the essentials? For most people, this includes water, food, medical supplies, and basic shelter items. Start by listing these essential items based on your family size and health requirements. This will help you focus your efforts and avoid unnecessary expenditures.

  • Water: Look for large bottles or jugs that come at a reduced price per liter.
  • Canned Goods: Dried beans, pasta, rice, tuna, and other non-perishable foods are great choices. Always check the expiration date to ensure you're not buying expired items.
  • Dried Fruits and Nuts: These can be added to your diet as a healthy snack or used in recipes.

  Buy in Bulk

  One of the most effective ways to save money while prepping is by buying essential items in bulk. Many stores offer discounts when purchasing larger quantities, and over time, these savings can add up significantly. Additionally, buying in bulk allows you to reduce packaging waste, which is environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

  Grow Your Own Food

  If you have the space and time, growing your own food is one of the best ways to reduce costs while increasing self-sufficiency. Start by selecting easy-to-grow vegetables that are nutritious and require minimal resources.

  • Tomatoes: These require full sun but produce large yields.
  • Carrots: They grow well in containers and provide high nutritional value.
  • Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce): These plants grow quickly and can be harvested multiple times per season.

  Utilize Free Resources

  There are numerous free resources available that can help you save money on your prepping journey:

  • Community Gardens: Check if there's an existing community garden in your area. Many local governments sponsor these as a way to encourage sustainable living.
  • Food Banks: Many communities have food banks where you can obtain non-perishable items for free.
  • Homesteading Forums and Websites: These platforms often offer tips on how to reduce expenses while building up your survival skills.

  DIY Projects

  Making use of DIY projects is another great way to stretch your budget further. There are countless tutorials available online for crafting everything from water storage tanks to solar-powered lights. Not only does this help you save money, but it also gives you the satisfaction of creating something yourself.

  • Water Storage Tanks: You can convert empty plastic jugs into makeshift containers by drilling holes and attaching spigots.
  • Emergency Lighting: Make use of inexpensive LED bulbs that last longer than traditional incandescent ones. You can even build your own emergency flashlights out of simple components.

  Practice Smart Shopping

  Even when you're buying supplies, there are ways to cut costs:

  • Shop Seasonally: Buy fruits and vegetables at their peak season when they’re cheaper and fresher.
  • Compare Prices: Always check for deals or coupons before making a purchase.
  • Use Multiple Suppliers: Sometimes local suppliers will offer better prices than large retailers.

  Educate Yourself

  Knowledge is one of the greatest tools you can have as a prepper. Attend workshops, read books, and participate in online forums to learn about various aspects of preparedness. Many resources are free or low-cost, so take advantage of any opportunity available. Understanding how different systems work—whether it's water filtration methods or building shelters—can also help you make informed decisions that could save money.

  Build Long-Term Relationships

  Building relationships within your community can be incredibly beneficial for prepping purposes. By joining groups focused on survival skills, sharing resources becomes much easier and more efficient. Whether it's trading seeds with neighbors during a gardening exchange or pooling together to buy large quantities of food at once, working together reduces overall costs.

• Sailboat Pantry: Maximizing Stored Foods for Long-Term Bug-Out Sailboat Prep

  Introduction

  Bug-out sailboat prep is a way to be prepared for any emergency scenarios that might arise. Every boat owner should have enough food and water stored on their vessel to sustain them if needed. But long-term boat storage presents a unique challenge — how can you maintain a good store of non-perishable food items for extended periods that won’t spoil or take up too much space? The key is to make use of the sailboat pantry.

  In this article, we’ll explore the concept of a sailboat pantry and its importance in long-term bug-out boat prepping. We’ll look at the types of food to store, long-term food storage techniques, and how to maximize the amount of food stored in limited space. Read on to get the scoop on sailboat food storage and see how you can be ready to go in case of emergencies.

  Importance of Storing Food on a Boat

  Having enough food on board is one of the most important things to prepare for emergencies. Not only can you keep yourself and your crew nourished and fueled, but you can ensure the safety of your boat and prevent any fires or explosions. On a bug-out boat, food storage can also make it easier to get out of a dangerous situation quickly and with minimal resources.

• Seaweed: The Ultimate Survival Superfood for Nuclear Winter

  Could seaweed help us survive a nuclear winter? A new study says yes.

  In an era fraught with geopolitical tensions and environmental uncertainty, the prospect of nuclear conflict looms as a persistent threat. As preppers and survivalists seek refuge from potential cataclysms, one often-overlooked resource emerges as a beacon of hope: seaweed. Recent research published in Earth's Future highlights the remarkable resilience and nutritional richness of seaweed, positioning it as a crucial component of survival strategies in the face of nuclear winter.

  The Study: Seaweed's Resilience and Food Potential

  The study, conducted by researchers and published earlier this month, underscores seaweed's capacity to withstand the harsh conditions of nuclear winter. Drawing upon simulations and models, scientists found that seaweed not only survives but thrives in environments characterized by reduced sunlight and altered climate patterns. This resilience, coupled with its rapid growth and nutritional value, marks seaweed as a promising food source in post-apocalyptic scenarios.

  Surviving Nuclear Winter with Seaweed

  Imagine a world plunged into darkness, with temperatures plummeting and traditional food sources dwindling. In such dire circumstances, survivors of nuclear conflict may find solace in the abundance of seaweed lining coastal waters. Unlike conventional crops that falter in the absence of sunlight, seaweed's ability to photosynthesize efficiently under varying light conditions ensures a stable food supply even in the bleakest of environments.

  Harvesting Seaweed: A Practical Solution for Preppers

  For those contemplating survival strategies, the simplicity of harvesting seaweed presents an attractive proposition. Live-aboard sailboats, often touted as bug-out vessels for navigating post-apocalyptic landscapes, offer an ideal platform for seaweed cultivation. With minimal equipment and expertise required, preppers can cultivate and harvest seaweed directly from the ocean, supplementing their provisions with this nutrient-rich superfood.

  The Global Impact of Seaweed Farming

  Beyond individual survival scenarios, seaweed farming holds immense potential for addressing broader issues of global food security. The study suggests that within a relatively short timeframe of nine to 14 months, seaweed cultivation could make a significant contribution to meeting the world's nutritional needs. This aligns with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations' recognition of seaweed as a valuable addition to the global food supply chain.

  Seaweed: Nutrient-Rich and Sustainable

  What makes seaweed such a formidable contender in the realm of survival foods? The answer lies in its nutritional richness and sustainable cultivation practices. Seaweed boasts an impressive array of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, iodine, potassium, and selenium, making it a powerhouse of essential nutrients. Furthermore, seaweed cultivation requires minimal inputs and does not contribute to land degradation or deforestation, aligning with principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

  Seaweed's Versatility Across Industries

  While seaweed's potential as a food source garners significant attention, its versatility extends far beyond the realm of nutrition. Across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics, seaweed finds myriad applications, further bolstering its appeal as a multipurpose resource. Whether utilized in skincare products, pharmaceutical formulations, or animal feed supplements, seaweed offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional ingredients.

  Understanding Seaweed Growth Dynamics

  To fully harness seaweed's potential in survival scenarios, it's essential to grasp the intricacies of its growth dynamics, particularly in the context of nuclear winter. Contrary to expectations, seaweed exhibits accelerated growth rates under conditions of heightened environmental stress, peaking within the initial years of cultivation. This phenomenon, attributed to enhanced nutrient availability resulting from disruptions in oceanic circulation patterns, underscores seaweed's adaptability to fluctuating conditions.

  Investing in Seaweed Farming Infrastructure

  As the specter of nuclear conflict looms ever larger, proactive measures must be taken to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Investing in seaweed farming infrastructure represents a proactive step towards enhancing global resilience and mitigating the potential impacts of nuclear winter-induced food shortages. By cultivating seaweed on a large scale, communities can bolster their food security and reduce reliance on conventional agricultural practices vulnerable to environmental disruption.

  Conclusion: Embracing Seaweed as a Survival Solution

  In the face of unprecedented challenges posed by nuclear conflict and environmental instability, seaweed emerges as a beacon of hope for survivalists and preppers alike. Its resilience, nutritional richness, and versatility position it as a formidable ally in the quest for sustainable living amidst adversity. By harnessing the potential of seaweed farming, humanity can fortify its resilience and ensure a brighter, more sustainable future in the wake of nuclear winter.

• Self-sustainable farming on a sailboat

  Found a great article about a sailor who grows their own food onboard.

  Three hulls, one planet: Neel 51 owner explains how he went self-sustainable (opens in a new window)

  As an experienced live-aboard cruiser, I disagree with a few points in his article. A few examples:

  • He states "Desalination puts brine back into the sea, which contributes to the eutrophication of the marine environment". First off, evaporation from the ocean surface removes much more water than a sailboat would. Second, the water you take from your watermaker will all end up going back into the ocean, thereby diluting the salt content back to normal. I also have rain catchers on our boat, but while Wolf uses them as his primary source, and watermaker as secondary, we use the watermaker as primary and raincatchers as secondary.
  • Re-using grey water is needed if you are relying on rain catching. While I am not opposed to having a grey-water system, we found it was easier just to use potable water for everything. The amount of waste from a single boat is minimal, and the ocean naturally bio-degrades it.
    Our reliance on potable water may partly be because we have excess electrical power, and so can "waste" the energy to use our watermaker as we please. Wolf has 3kw of solar and a 10kwh battery bank, compared to our 4.5kw solar and 29kwh battery bank.

  Generally, however, he has some great ideas, and it's good to see other people making the switch to a cruising lifestyle. Definitely worth the read.

• Taking a Peek at The Parts of a Fish

  Just how do the various parts of a fish's anatomy work together to keep these fascinating creatures at home in their hazardous environment?

  And what a risky life it is, with every fish species up to the Great White Shark himself being an item on someone else's lunch menu.

  To survive, a fish must be able to attack, defend, run (well, swim as fast as he can) or hide - and sometimes all of these in quick succession.

  Fortunately, all fish have evolved to master at least one of these attributes to give itself a sporting chance of success.

• Top 10 Favourite Kitchen Items for Cruisers

  A few things of note:

  • We have a pretty large solar array with lithium batteries. This means we can run some electrical appliances that others may not be able to, depending on the setup.
  • Our boat, a 15m catamaran, is roomier than some, which provides more space for storing bulkier appliances.
  • We do not monetize our page and we do not earn any money from the links below. I included them merely for reference. Anything you see on our pages comes from us sharing our experiences only.

  Now, without further ado...

• Using An Oven As A Food Dehydrator

  Dehydration and Why It's Useful

  Dehydration is the process of removing water from food to extend its shelf life and preserve its nutrients. Water is an essential ingredient for the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage, so by removing it from food, we can prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. Dehydrating food also makes it more portable and convenient for storage and transport.

  Dehydration is useful because it allows you to store food for longer periods of time without the need for refrigeration or freezing. This is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and campers who need lightweight, non-perishable food options. Additionally, dehydrated food is a great option for emergency preparedness kits or for those who live in areas prone to natural disasters where power outages can disrupt the food supply chain.

  In addition to the practical benefits, dehydrated foods are also packed with nutrients. The dehydration process preserves the vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in food, making it a healthy and nutritious option. Dehydrated fruits and vegetables, for example, are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients.

  Overall, dehydration is a useful and practical way to preserve food while maintaining its nutritional value, making it an increasingly popular choice for home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

• Vertical Gardening: The Future of Food Cultivation

  Gardening is a pastime that has been enjoyed by millions of people for generations, but with growing populations and limited space, the traditional way of gardening is becoming less and less viable. However, there is a solution that has been gaining popularity in recent years: Vertical Gardening.

  Vertical gardening involves growing plants in a vertical tower, allowing for more plants to be grown in a smaller space. This solution is perfect for people living in urban areas where outdoor space is limited, or for those looking to grow more food in their backyard.

  Hydroponic gardening is a popular method used in vertical gardening. This method involves growing plants in water, instead of soil. This method is not only space-saving but also eliminates the need for soil-based nutrients, as the plants are fed a nutrient-rich solution directly.

  Building a hydroponic garden can seem like a daunting task, but with some basic knowledge, anyone can do it. There are many tutorials and videos available online that will help you get started, and you can even find detailed plans and drawings to help guide you. However, it's important to remember that a hydroponic system requires power and requires you to add nutrients to the water.

• Warning Americans: A Dire Future Looms Large

  In recent months, the world has been distracted by other pressing concerns—but right under our noses, two North American neighbors have quietly shifted their economic and political landscapes in ways that could fundamentally alter the future for Americans. This isn’t just a trade war; it’s an all-out challenge to U.S. dominance in global markets, supply chains, and energy security.

  What happens next could change everything. The article below warns of potential dire consequences and encourages preparedness for preppers and survivalists.

  Critical Developments

  • Economic Realignment: Canada and Mexico are quietly drawing up blueprints for true economic realignment, diversifying supply chains by strengthening trade ties with Europe and Asia.
  • Economic Reckoning: Tariffs imposed by President Trump are driving up grocery prices, disrupting energy supplies, and creating a full-blown supply chain crisis in the U.S. Canadian consumers are enacting a near-total boycott of U.S. products and companies.
  • Supply Chain Disruption: American exports to Canada are plummeting as U.S. stores like Walmart are vacant, while Canadian-owned retailers thrive.
  • Grocery Store Impact: In grocery stores across Canada, Canadian-made foods are selling out as American products sit on shelves like pariahs. American goods are left unsold while Canadian-owned retailers are thriving.

  Canadian Consumer Boycott

  Canadian consumers are enacting a near-total boycott of U.S. products and companies. This boycott encompasses all sectors, with the biggest visible impact seen in grocery stores. Canadian-made foods are selling out rapidly as American products sit unsold on shelves.

  • Grocery Stores: In Canada, grocery stores are witnessing a dramatic shift. Canadian consumers are purchasing Canadian-made goods exclusively. The U.S. products are filling the warehouses as nobody pruchases them.
  • Walmart: Even stores like Walmart, which are predominantly American-owned, are facing empty stores as Canadian consumers avoid U.S. brands.

  Current Level of US Exports to Canada

  The level of U.S. exports to Canada is substantial and has a significant economic impact. According to recent data:

  • Food and Beverages: The U.S. exported $13 billion worth of food and beverages to Canada in 2020.
  • Petroleum Products: The U.S. exported $96 billion worth of petroleum products to Canada in 2020.
  • Vehicles and Parts: The U.S. exported $75 billion worth of vehicles and parts to Canada in 2020.
  • Total Exports to Canada: In 2020, the U.S. exported approximately $416 billion worth of goods to Canada. More than a billion dollars a day is being lost.

  Forseeable Outcome: Supply Chain Crisis and Economic Impact

  The current level of U.S. exports to Canada is plummeting due to the boycott by Canadian consumers. This has led to a full-blown supply chain crisis:

  • Supply Chains: Factories in both countries are stalling as critical parts from Canada and Mexico aren't moving, leading to shutdowns across the U.S.
  • Automotive Industry: The auto industry is particularly affected, with car manufacturers facing massive delays due to missing single parts. This highlights how supply chain disruptions can be caused by even small components.
  • Tech Companies: Shortages of key materials are driving up costs and slowing down innovation. The longer this crisis drags on, the deeper the financial wounds become.

  Economic Impact of the Boycott

  The economic impact is widespread and deepening. Key sectors are being hit hard:

  • Food and Agriculture: The agricultural sector is feeling the squeeze as rising prices for staples like milk, bread, and eggs affect ordinary people’s wallets.
  • Energy Sector: Energy supplies from Canada are being redirected to other markets, leading to higher fuel costs and grid strain in parts of the U.S.
  • Fuel Prices: Oil prices have spiked due to key exports re-rooting by Canada, creating supply gaps that drive up fuel costs. Grid strain is also a major issue as Mexico redirects energy supplies away from the U.S.

  Long-Term Consequences and Global Shifts

  The longer this crisis drags on, the harder it becomes to restart supply chains. The world isn’t waiting for the U.S.:

  • New Trade Alliances: Countries in Europe, Asia, and South America are forming new trade alliances, bypassing the U.S. altogether. Global supply chains are shifting, reducing U.S. influence.
  • International Investors: International investors are pulling out of U.S. markets faster than they arrived, looking for more predictable returns elsewhere.

  The Next Chapter

  What’s next? Does Canada and Mexico keep pushing? Will the U.S. double down? Or has the world already moved on without waiting for an answer?

  Drop your thoughts in the comments: How do you think this ends?