Shelf Life and Food Storage Information

Discussion in 'General Survival and Preparedness' started by RightHand, Sep 23, 2006.


  1. RightHand

    RightHand Been There, Done That RIP 4/15/21 Moderator Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    Thanks to akfanatic over on the M14 Firing Line Forum

    Info thanks to jacketch over on the FAL Files...

    Shelf Life of Food
    Grocery product shelf life is based upon the Manufacturers Date Packaged code. Manufacturers encode the Date Packaged somewhere on the product in a form unique to their internal procedures. Remember that these times are the manufacturers recommendations for MAXIMUM freshness and nutrient value. Several vendors indicated their products are edible long beyond the published recommendation dates. The information presented here was retrieved from either the vendors website or via contact with the vendor consumer hotline. In order to maintain freshness within the suggested expiration dates, food should be stored in a dry, cool location. Discard any food product exhibiting changed color, odor, or taste. Storage temperature has a great influence on shelf life.

    Per Del Monte – a 15-degree change reduces expected shelf life by 50% (ideal temp is 65; if stored at 80, then shelf life is reduced by 50%). For maximum freshness, the product should remain on your shelf for a maximum of date packaged + 12 months. Once the product is opened, it should remain on your shelf for a maximum of 3 months OR less. Most Canned products will store a minimum of 1 year, most jarred products will store a minimum of 1 1/2 yrs.

    About Shelflife of Food Items

    What shelflife is:
    Shelf life is determined in many ways. Some are determined by manufacturers, others by groups. Shelf life is generally the window of time that a food item maintains quality taste, texture, and nutritional value. Shelflife is based on safety, quality, and nutrition. Many foods are still edible past the shelf life of the product if stored properly, although they may have lost nutritional value.

    I compare shelflife data:
    I'm no expert on shelflife; so I scour over charts, books, pamphlets, and Internet sites in search of shelflife data. Sometimes the figures offered from various sources are in disagreement. If they are close, I check further to see which is the most accurate, or give both (i.e. 12-24 months). The resources I use are in the links on this webpage, though it would take too much time to credit each source by each food item. Often the multiple sources provide exactly the same data anyway.

    Foods outlasting shelflife vary:
    Some foods just won't exceed the shellfire, like brown rice. You're really lucky if you keep it longer without it going rancid. Some foods hardly even need a shelflife, like wheat. If the wheat from the pyramids is not only still good; but also given us crops lost for millennia, I'm convinced that my wheat is going to be fine no matter how long I store it, as long as I store it properly. The shelf life of evaporated milk (as with most foods) varies with the fat content. According to Carnation, this has to do with the stability of the milk proteins and their expected performance in the recipes people use them for. They still have nutrition past the expected shelflife, but will fail performance tests in cakes, etc. The skimmed and low fat versions will also darken faster.

    Shelflife data provided:

    Shelflife data below gives specific foods and average shelflife assuming optimum storage conditions. Foods kept at lower temperatures extend their shelflife.

    Shelflife of Food Items
    * NOTE: Shelflife info from various sources. (See links below.)
    Conflicts are researched through multiple resources.
    Baby Food, canned - 12 months
    Baking Powder - 18 months (unopened)
    Baking Soda - 18-24 months
    Beans, Adzuki - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Blackeye - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Black Turtle - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Dried - 12-24 months ( in their original container)
    Beans, Dried - indefinitely (resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Beans, can, Baked, Bush - 24-36 months 1-423-509-2361
    Beans, can, Black, Progresso - 24 months 1-800-200-9377
    Beans, can, Bush Beans Brand - 26 months
    Beans, Garbanzo - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Great Northern - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Kidney - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Mung Beans - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Pink - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Pinto - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Refried - 5 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Small Red - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Beans, Soy - 8-10 years (at 70 degrees F.)
    Bouillon - 24 months (Keep dry and covered)
    Bouillon (Cubes) - 24 months
    Bouillon (Granules) - 12 months
    Bouillon, Herb Ox - 24 months
    Bouillon, Tone - 24 months
    Bread, Crackers - 3 months
    Bread, Crackers, Saltines - 8 months
    Bread, Crackers, Ritz - 8 months
    Bread, Crackers, Whole-wheat - 48 months
    Bread, Crumbs, dried - 6 months (Store dry and covered)
    Bread, fresh, store-bought (original container @ 70° F. basement) - 5 days
    Bread, frozen, store-bought (original container @ 0° F. freezer) - 6 months
    Bread, Mix, Biscuit Mixes (most) - 9 months
    Bread, Mix, Biscuit Mix, Krusteaze, any flavor except mix for bread machines - 24 months
    Bread, Mix, Hot-roll mix -18 months (If opened, store in airtight) container
    Bread, Rolls (commercial) - 3-5 days (frozen 2-3 months) Homemade breads may have shorter shelf life due to lack of preservatives.
    Bread, Tortillas, Corn - 1-2 weeks (refrigerated 2 weeks) May be frozen
    Bread, Tortillas, Flour - 1-2 weeks (refrigerated 2 weeks) May be frozen
    Bread, wheat, homemade (polyethelene bag @ 70° F. basement) - 3 days
    Bread, white, homemade (polyethelene bag @ 70° F. basement) - 5 days
    Butter, dehydrated - 5-8 years
    Butter (refrigerated) - 1-2 weeks (frozen 6-9 months) Wrap or cover tightly.
    Buttermilk Powder - 24-36 months
    Buttermilk (refrigerated) - 10-14 days Cover tightly. Flavor not affected if buttermilk separates.
    Cake Mix (most) - 9-12 months
    Cake Mix, Angel Food - 9 months
    Cake Mix, Betty Crocker - 8-12 months
    Cake Mix, Jiffy - 24 months
    Cake Mix, Pillsbury - 18 months
    Candy, hard - 24 months
    Casseroles, mix - 9-12 months (Keep cool and dry)
    Cereals, cooked - 6 months
    Cereal, Corn, dry Ready-to-eat - 12 months
    Cereal, Cream of Wheat - 12 months
    Cereal, Hominy Grits - 12 months
    Cereal, Oatmeal – 12 months
    Cereal, Processed (in a Box) - 6-12 months
    Cereal (Publix) - 12-18 months 1-800-242-1227
    Cereal, Quinoa Cereal - 1-3 months
    Cereals, Ready-to-cook, oatmeal, etc. - 12 months
    Cereals, Ready-to-eat (unopened) - 6-12 months (opened 2-3 months)
    Cereals, ready-to-eat (opened) - 2-3 months (Refold package tightly)
    Cereal, Rice cereal, dry Ready-to-eat - 12 months
    Cereal, Wheat, shredded, dry Ready-to-eat - 12 months
    Cheese, Brick (Hard and wax coated) (opened/refrigerated) - 2 months
    Cheese, Brick (Hard and wax coated) (unopened/refrigerated) - 3-6 months (frozen 6 months)
    Cheese, Cheddar (Hard and wax coated) (opened/refrigerated) - 2 months
    Cheese, Cheddar (Hard and wax coated) (unopened/refrigerated) - 3-6 months (frozen 6 months)
    Cheese, Cottage cheese (original container @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 10-15 days
    Cheese, Cream cheese (original container @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 21 days
    Cheese, Cream, Neufchatel (refrigerated) - 4 weeks
    Cheese, dehydrated - 5-8 years
    Cheese, Dry cheeses (original container @ 60 - 70° F. basement) - 3 months
    Cheese, Edam (Hard and wax coated) (opened/refrigerated) - 2 months
    Cheese, Edam (Hard and wax coated) (unopened/refrigerated) - 3-6 months (frozen 6 months)
    Cheese, Gouda (Hard and wax coated) (opened/refrigerated) - 2 months
    Cheese, Gouda (Hard and wax coated) (unopened/refrigerated) - 3-6 months (frozen 6 months)
    Cheese, natural (vacuum package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 6 months
    Cheese, Parmesan, grated - 12 months
    Cheese, Parmesan, Romano (opened/refrigerated) - 2-4 months
    Cheese, Parmesan, Romano (unopened) - 10 months
    Cheese, processed (vacuum package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 8 months
    Cheese, Powdered - 36 months
    Cheese, Processed Cheese Products (refrigerated) - 3-4 weeks (frozen 4 months)
    Cheese, Ricotta (refrigerated) - 5 days
    Cheese spreads/dips (original container @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 21 days
    Cheese, Swiss (Hard and wax coated) (opened/refrigerated) - 2 months
    Cheese, Swiss (Hard and wax coated) (unopened/refrigerated) - 3-6 months (frozen 6 months)
    Chocolate ( An Import ) - 12 months
    Chocolate, Hot Cocoa Mix, Nestles (Individually Wrapped) - 24 months
    Chocolate, Nestles Quick - 24 months
    Chocolate, Premelted - 12 months Keep cool.
    Chocolate, Semi-sweet - 18-24 months Keep cool.
    Chocolate syrup, (unopened) - 2 years
    Chocolate syrup, (opened) - 6 months (Refrigerate)
    Chocolate, Unsweetened - 18 months Keep cool.
    Chocolate syrup (opened) - 6 months
    Chocolate syrup (unopened) - 24 months
    Cocoa - 5 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Cocoa mixes - 8 months
    Condiments, Catsup - 12-24 months
    Condiments, Mustard, prepared yellow (opened) - 6-8 months
    Condiments, Mustard, prepared yellow (unopened) - 24 months
    Condiments, Mustard, French's (Jar) - 18 months
    Condiments, Mustard, French's (squeeze bottle) - 12 months
    Cookie Mix, Basic - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Corn Meal - 6-18 months (Keep tightly closed. Refrigeration may prolong shelf life.)
    Corn Starch - 18 months
    Corn Starch, Argo - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Cream, Half and Half, Light and Heavy (refrigerated) - 7-10 days (frozen 2 months)
    Cream, ultra pasteurized (unopened/refrigerated) - 21-30 days
    Cream, Sour (refrigerated) - 2 weeks
    Cream, Sour, Dips, commercial (refrigerated) - 2 weeks
    Creamer, non-dairy, Creamora - 24 months
    Creamer, Non-Dairy - 9-36 months
    Drink Mix, Country Time Lemonade - 24 months
    Drink Mix, Crystal Light - 24 months
    Drink Mix, Fruit, powdered - 10 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Drink Mix, Orange - 10+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Drink Mix, powdered, Kool Aid, Kraft Foods - 18-24 months 1-800-543-5335
    Drink Mix, Tang - 24 months
    Eggs, dehydrated or freeze-dried powdered - 5-8 years
    Eggs, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 120 days
    Eggs, pickled - 1-12 months (cool storage is recommended)
    Eggs, powdered - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Eggs, processed (original package @ 70° F. cool basement) - 15 months
    Extracts; i.e. Vanilla - 18 months
    Flour, Rice flour – 1-2 months
    Flour, White - 6-9 months (some sources say up to 5 years)
    Flour, White enriched - 12 months
    Flour, White - 5 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Flour, Whole-wheat - 6-9 months (some sources say up to 5 years)
    Flour, whole wheat graham - 2 weeks
    Frosting, canned (opened) - 3 months (Refrigerate)
    Frosting Mix - 8-9 months
    Fruit, Apples (can), Comstock - 24-36 months 1-800-270-2743
    Fruit, Apples, fresh (separated in boxes @ 32° F. mod. moist cellar) - 6 months
    Fruit, Apple Chips, dried - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Fruit, Apple Slices, Dried - 24 months [8 years (in Mylar pouch)]
    Fruit, Applesauce, Motts - 12 months
    Fruit, Bananas - 2-3 days (until ripened, then refrigerate)
    Fruit, Banana, Dried Chips - 8 months
    Fruit, Bananas, fresh (ventilated container @ 60 - 70° F. basement) - 1 week
    Fruit, Berries, fresh (ventilated container @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 1-2 weeks
    Fruit, Canned - 12-24 months (in the original container at 70 degrees F. in a dry basement)
    Fruit, Canned fruits (original container @ 70° F. dry basement) - 2 years
    Fruit, can, Del Monte - 18-26 months
    Fruit, can, Comstock - 18-26 months
    Fruit, can, Libby's - 36 months+ 1-888-884-7269
    Fruit, Citrus fruit, fresh ventilated container @ 32°F. mode. moist cellar) - 8 weeks
    Fruit Cocktail, Canned - 24 months
    Fruit, Cherries, Bottled - 24 months
    Fruit, Coconut, shredded, canned or packaged - 12 months
    Fruits, dried - 6-12 months (Keep cool, in airtight container; if possible)
    Fruit, Dehydrated - 6-8 months
    Fruit, Dehydrated - 5 years (Hermetically sealed in the absence of oxygen at a stable temperature of 70 degrees F. - They should keep proportionately longer if stored at cooler temperatures.)
    Fruit, Dehydrated fruits (air/moisture proof @ 70° F. dry basement) - 8 months
    Fruit, Frozen fruits (original container @ 0° F. freezer) - 12 months
    Fruit, Jams & Jellies (original container @ 70° F. dry basement) - 18 months
    Fruit, Peach, canned - 24 months
    Fruit, Peaches, Del Monte - 24-30 months 1-800-543-3090
    Fruit, Pear, canned - 24 months
    Fruit, Pear halves, Del Monte - 24-30 months 1-800-543-3090
    Fruit, Pears, fresh (ventilated container @ 32° F. mod. moist cellar) - 4 months
    Fruit, Pie Fillings, Comstock - 18-26 months
    Fruit, Pineapple, canned - 24 months
    Fruit Smoothie, Del Monte - 12 months
    Gelatin - 18 months
    Gelatin Mixes – 18 months
    Gelatin, flavored, Jello, Kraft Foods - 24 months
    Grain, Barley, Whole (a soft grain) - 5-8 years (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Barley, pearled - 12 months
    Grain, Buckwheat (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Buckwheat (kasha) - 6-12 months
    Grain, Corn, Whole, dry - 2-5 years (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum-sealed in a food grade bag)
    Grain, Corn, Whole, dry (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Flax (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Kamut® (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Lentils - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Grain, Millet (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Oat Groats (a soft grain) - 8 years (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Oats - 2-5 years (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Grain, Oats, Rolled (a soft grain) - 1-8 years (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Quinoa, Whole (a soft grain) - 5-8 years (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Rice - 24-48 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Grain, Rice, brown – 1-6 months
    Grain, Rice, white – 24-48 months
    Grain, Rice, white - 4 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Grain, Rice, wild – 24-36 months
    Grain, Spelt (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Triticale (a hard grain) - 5-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Grain, Wheat, Whole (a hard grain) - 10-12 years+ (at room temperature sealed without oxygen - possibly indefinitely)
    Granola - 1-3 months
    Herb, Garlic - 5-8 months (Keep in cool, dry, ventilated area.)
    Herbs, ground - 6-36 months (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Herbs, whole - 12-48 months (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Herb Leaves, flowers, roots, and other herb parts - 12 months after harvesting (in cool place)
    Herbs, Frozen (in freezer bags) - 6 months
    Herbs, Green, Leafy - 12-36 months
    Herbs, Whole Seeds - 3-4 years
    Herb or Spice Extracts - 4 years
    Herbs, Seasoning Blends - 12-24 months
    Herbal Essential oils - indefinitely
    Herbal Extracts (Commercially prepared) - expiration date
    Herbal Infusions - Make fresh daily. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
    Herbal Decoctions - Consume within 48 hours. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
    Herbal tablets or capsules (Commercially prepared) - expiration date
    Herbal Tea (comfrey leaf or root) - 24 hours
    Herbal Tinctures (Alcohol based) - 2-4 years
    Herbal Tinctures (Vinegar based) - 12-24 months
    Herbal Tinctures, syrups, and essential oils - Keep for several months or years. Store in dark glass bottles in a cool environment away from sunlight. Store syrup in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
    Herbal Ointments, creams, and capsules - Keep for several months. Store in dark glass jars (or plastic containers.)
    Honey - 12-24 months (Some sources say indefinitely. Gently heat to remove crystallization.)
    Honey - indefinitely (in an airtight container at room temperature) (Watch out for additives in the honey. It is possible to buy honey with water and sugar added. This honey generally doesn't crystallize like pure 100% honey does when stored for a long time. If there are additives, there is no saying how long it will last.)
    Hormel (all canned products) - indefinitely in original container
    Ice Cream (frozen) - 1-2 months
    Ice Milk (frozen) - 1-2 months
    Jams - 12-18 months
    Jellies - 12-18 months
    Juices, can - 12 months
    Juice, Apple, Motts - 12 months
    Juice, Apple (Whitehouse), Nat'l Fruit Prod. Co. - 24 months 1-800-551-5167
    Juice, can, Dole - 24-36 months (800) 232-5942
    Juice, Canned fruit juices (original container @ 70° F. dry basement) 24 months
    Juice, Dehydrated fruit juice (air/moisture proof @ 70° F. dry basement) - 12 months
    Juice, Frozen fruit juices (original container @ 0° F. freezer) - 12 months
    Juice, Fruit (canned) - 18-36 months (in a cool, dry place)
    Juice, Fruit, Dehydrated - 12 months
    Juice, Orange, Bluebird - 24 months 1-800-237-7805
    Juice, Pineapple, Del Monte - 18 months
    Juice, Snappy Tom Cocktail Juice, Del Monte - 18 months
    Juice, Tomato, Del Monte - 24 months 1-800-543-3090
    Ketchup (glass & plastic) - 24 months
    Legumes, bottled or canned - 24-36 months
    Marshmallows - 2-3 months
    Marshmallow Creme - 2-3 months
    Mayonnaise - 3-4 months
    Meat, Beef, canned (original package @ 70° F. cool basement) - 30 months
    Meat, Beef, canned (in chunks with natural juices) – 30 months
    Meat, Beef, Dried, canned - indefinitely
    Meat, Beef, dried (can @ 70° F. cool basement) - 18 months
    Meat, Beef, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 10-14 days
    Meat, Beef, frozen (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 10 months
    Meat, Beef, Roast, can - indefinitely (in original container)
    Meat, canned (most) - 12-36 months unopened (1-2 months opened, refrigerated)
    Meat, canned, Tyson - 36 months
    Meat, Chicken, canned - 12-36 months
    Meat, Chicken Breast, canned – 36 months
    Meat, Chicken Breast (can), Tyson - 36 months
    Meat, Chicken, canned, Tyson - 36 months
    Meat, Chili, canned – indefinitely
    Meat, Chili w/beans and without, can - indefinitely (in original container)
    Meat, Chili w/beans, Hormel - indefinite 1-800-523-4635
    Meat, Chili, Seafood Cocktail - 24 months
    Meat, Fish or shellfish, canned – 12-18 months
    Meat, Ham, canned (shelf stable, unopened) - 24 months
    Meat, Ham, Country style (unsliced) - 12 months
    Meat, Ham Chunks, canned - indefinitely
    Meat, Ham, Deviled, can - indefinitely in original container
    Meat, Lamb, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 7-10 days
    Meat, Lamb, frozen (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 8 months
    Meat, Pork, cured (vacuum package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 4 weeks
    Meat, Pork, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 4 days
    Meat, Pork, frozen (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 4-6 months
    Meat, Pork, sausage (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 4 days
    Meat, Poultry, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 5 days
    Meat, Poultry, frozen (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 8 months
    Meat, Seafood, canned – 48-60 months
    Meat, Spam, canned - indefinitely (in original container)
    Meat, Spam, Hormel - Indefinite 1-800-523-4635
    Meat substitutes (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 4 months
    Meat, Tuna, canned – 48-60 months
    Meat, Tuna, Starkist - 4-6 years 1-800-252-1587
    Meat Turkey, can - 12 months
    Meat, Turkey and Gravy canned dinners - indefinitely in original container
    Meat, Veal, fresh (original package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 6 days
    Meat, Veal, frozen (air & moisture proof @ 0° F. freezer) - 8 months
    Meat, Vienna Sausage, canned – 24 months
    Meat, Vienna Sausage, Libby's - 24 months 1-888-884-7269
    Milk Alternate, Morning Moo brand powdered - 5 years in original bag (7 years in bucket) Blue Chip Group, Inc.-Manufacturer Blue Chip Group, Inc. Home of the Morning Moo's
    Milk, aseptic packaging - Pkg. date
    Milk, Canned, Condensed - 12 months
    Milk, Canned, Sweetened Condensed - 24-36 months
    Milk, Canned, Evaporated - 12-36 months (Invert can every 2 months.)
    Milk, Evaporated, Publix - 18-24 months
    Milk, Powdered (Instant Non-fat) - 6-15 months
    Milk, Powdered (Nonfat dry) - 3 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Milk, Powdered (Non-Instant) - 24-48 months
    Mixes, Biscuit - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Bread Mix, White - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Brownie (most) - 9 months
    Mixes, Brownie - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Cookie mixes - 12 months
    Mixes, Cornbread - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Muffin Mix (most) - 9 months
    Mixes, Muffin, Blueberry - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Muffin Mix, Krusteaze, any flavor except mix for bread machines - 24 months
    Mixes, Pancake Mix (most) - 6-9 months
    Mixes, Pancake, Buttermilk - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Mixes, Pie Crust Mix - 8 months
    Mixes, Sweet Roll Mix - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Molasses (opened) - 6 months
    Molasses (unopened) - 12-24 months
    Mushrooms, Freeze Dried, Tone - 24 months
    Mushrooms, Green Giant - 48 months
    Nuts (in the shell) – 24 months
    Nutmeats (in vacuum can) – 3 months
    Oils (unopened) - 18 months Store in cool place away from heat
    Oils (opened) - 6-8 months Store in cool place away from heat
    Oil (some) - indefinitely (in original container)
    Oil, Canola, Best Foods - 18-24 months 1-800-338-8831
    Oil, Corn, Mazola (Best Foods) – 18 months from pkg. Date1-800-338-8831
    Oil, Olive - 24 months
    Oil, Salad - 6-9 months
    Olives (canned, unopened) - 1-3 months
    Pasta - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Pasta, American Beauty - 36 months (in original package)
    Pasta, Cup-O-Noodles - 24 months
    Pasta, Fusilli - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Pasta, Macaroni - 8 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Pasta, Macaroni & Cheese - 12 months
    Pasta Mixes – 6 months
    Pasta, Noodles & Sauce, Chicken Flavor, Lipton - 24 months
    Pasta, Noodles, Fettuccine, Montalcino - 18 months+
    Pasta, Penne - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Pasta & Sauce, Lipton - 12 months
    Pasta-Roni – Exp. Date
    Pasta Sauce - 24 months (unopened) (2 weeks opened, refrigerated)
    Pasta Sauce - Lipton 5 Brothers - 24 months
    Pasta Sauce (Ragu-Jar), Lipton - 24 months 1-800-328-7248
    Pasta, Shells - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Pasta, Spaghetti - 8 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Pasta, Spaghetti - 18-24 months
    Pasta, Spaghetti, Montalcino - 18 months+
    Peanut Butter (opened) - 2-3 months Refrigeration prolongs storage time
    Peanut Butter (unopened) - 6-24 months Refrigeration prolongs storage time
    Peanut Butter (Jif), Proctor & Gamble - 24 months 1-800-543-7276
    Peanut Butter, Jiffy - 24 months
    Peanut Butter, Skippy - 24 months
    Peanuts – 24-36 months
    Peanuts, Planter's - 24-36 months 1-800-622-4726
    Pectin, Dry - 3 years
    Pectin, Liquid - 12-18 months
    Pectin, liquid (opened) - 1 month (Refrigerate)
    Pickles (canned, unopened) - 1-3 months
    Popcorn - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Popcorn, both microwaveable and regular - 24 months
    Popcorn, whole kernels - 12-24 months
    Popcorn, Pops Rite - 24 months
    Potato chips (original container @ 70° F. basement) - 1 month
    Pudding Mixes – 12 months
    Pudding Mix, Chocolate or Vanilla - 5 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Ready Meals, Chicken and Dumplings, can - indefinitely in original container
    Ready Meals, Chicken & Dumplings, Sweet Sue - 24 months
    Ready Meals, Chicken & Noodles, Sweet Sue - 24 months
    Ready Meals, MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) – 3-10 years (stored at 80 degrees or cooler)
    Rice, flavored or herb mixes – 6 months
    Rice, Minute Rice, Kraft Foods - 18 months
    Rice Mixes - 6 months
    Rice, parboiled - 6-12 months (stored unopened in cool, dry place)
    Rice, White Emerald - 12 months+
    Rice & Sauce, Lipton - 12 months
    Rice-a-Roni – Exp. Date
    Rye (a soft grain) - 5-8 years (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Salad dressings, bottled (unopened) - 10-12 months (Store on shelf)
    Salad dressings, bottled (opened) - 3 months (Refrigerate after opening)
    Salad dressings, made from mix - 2 weeks (Refrigerate, after mixing)
    Salt - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Salt - indefinitely if stored free of moisture
    Sauce, Barbecue - 12 months
    Sauce, Chili - 12 months
    Sauces, Gravies, powdered mixes (most) - 12 months
    Sauce, Hot sauce (commercial) - 24 months
    Sauces, powdered mixes (most) - 12 months
    Sauce, Salsa (commercial) (unopened) - 12-18 months
    Sauces, Sloppy Joe Sauces - 24 months
    Sauces (steak, etc.) - 24 months (stored unpacked in cool, dry place)
    Sauce, Tabasco Sauce, McIInenny - 5 years
    Sauce, Worcesterhire (commercial) - 24 months
    Sherbet (frozen) - 1-2 months
    Shortenings, solid - 8 months
    Shortening, Crisco, Proctor & Gamble - Indefinite 1-800-543-7276
    Shortening, Crisco - indefinitely (in original container)
    Shortening, Powdered - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Soup Base, Tone - 10 years
    Soup, Bear Creek - 36 months (435) 654-2660
    Soup Broth, Chicken Broth, Swanson - 18 months
    Soup, Campbell - 18-24 months 1-800-871-0988
    Soup, canned - 3+ years
    Soup, Country Kitchen - 36 months
    Soup, Progresso - 36 months 1-800-200-9377
    Soup Mix, Chicken Noodle, Bear Creek - 18 months
    Soup mix (dry) (most) - 12 months
    Soup Mix, dry - 5 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Spaghetti Sauces - 24 months
    Spices - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Spices, ground - 6 months (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Spices, whole - 12-24 months (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Spice, Cinnamon sticks, whole - 24 months+ (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Spice, Cloves, whole - 24 months+ (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Spice, Nutmeg, whole - 24 months+ (in airtight container in dry place away from sunlight and heat)
    Stew, Beef, Dinty Moore - 24-36 months 1-800-523-4635 (some sources say indefinitely in original container)
    Sugar - 24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Sugar - indefinitely if stored free of moisture
    Sugar, Brown - 4-18 months
    Sugar, Confectioners - 18-48 months
    Sugar, Granulated – 24-48 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Sugar, Granulated - 20+ years (in Mylar pouch)
    Sweetener, Artificial - 24 months
    Syrups - 12 months (Refrigerate, after opening)
    Tapioca - 12 months (stored unopened in cool, dry place)
    Toaster pastries - 2-3 months (Keep in airtight package)
    TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) Meat substitute (bacon bits) - 4 months (Keep tightly closed)
    TVP, unflavored - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Vanilla Extract (opened) - 12-18 months
    Vanilla Extract (unopened) - 24 months
    Vegetables, Beets, fresh (ventilated box @ 32° F. moist pit or cellar) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Cabbage, fresh (ventilated box @ 32° F. mod. moist pit/cellar) - 6 months
    Vegetables, canned - 24-48 months (unopened)
    Vegetables, Canned veggies original container @ 70° F. dry basement) - 2 years
    Vegetables, can, Bush Beans Brand - 26 months
    Vegetables, can, Del Monte - 24 months
    Vegetables, can, Green Giant - 24 months
    Vegetables, can, Progresso - 24 months
    Vegetables, Carrots, fresh (ventilated boxes/bags @ 32° F. moist pit or cellar) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Carrots, dehydrated - 10 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Vegetables, Corn, canned – 24–36 months
    Vegetables, Corn, can, Green Giant - 36 months
    Vegetables, Corn, can (whole & creamed), Del Monte - 24 months 1-800-543-3090
    Vegetables, Dark green, fresh (flexible package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 7 days
    Vegetables, Dehydrated veggies (air/moisture proof @ 70° F. dry basement) - 8 months
    Vegetables, Dehydrated - 8-12 (at room temperature sealed without oxygen)
    Vegetables, dehydrated flakes - 6 months
    Vegetables, Green Beans, Del Monte - 24-30 months 1-800-543-3090
    Vegetables, Hominy - 12 months
    Vegetables, Libby's - 36 months+ 1-888-884-7269
    Vegetables, misc. fresh veggies (flexible package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 1-2 weeks
    Vegetables, Onions, dry - 2-4 weeks (Keep in cool, dry, ventilated area.)
    Vegetables, Onions, dehydrated - 8 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Vegetables, Onions, fresh, dry (net bag @ 32° F. cool, dry area) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Peas, dry - 12-24 months (indefinitely resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)
    Vegetables, Peas, dry - 8+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Vegetables, Pillsbury - 24 months 1-800-328-6787
    Vegetables, Potato, canned (original container 70° F. dry basement) - 30 months
    Vegetables, Potato, dehydrated (original package @ 70° F. dry basement) -30 months
    Vegetables, Potato Flakes - 3+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Vegetables, Potatoes, fresh – 4 weeks (Keep dry and away from sun. Keep about 50 degrees for longer storage.)
    Vegetables, Potato, fresh (ventilated boxes/bags @ 35 - 40° F. mod. moist pit/cellar) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Potato, frozen )original package @ 0° F. freezer) - 8 months
    Vegetables, Potatoes, sweet – 2 weeks (Don’t refrigerate sweet potatoes.)
    Vegetables, Potato, sweet, fresh (ventilated boxes/bags @ 55 - 60° F. dry) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Potatoes, Instant – 6-12 months
    Vegetables, Potatoes, Instant - 3 years (in Mylar pouch)
    Vegetables, Potatoes, Instant, Idahoan (in a can) - indefinitely (in original container)
    Vegetables, Pumpkin, fresh (ventilated box @ 55° F. mod. dry basement) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Squash, pumpkin - 6 months
    Vegetables, Squash, acorn - 6 months
    Vegetables, Squash, spaghetti - 6 months
    Vegetables, Squash, butter-nut - 6 months
    Vegetables, Squash, winter, fresh (ventilated box @ 55° F. mod. dry basement) - 6 months
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, canned – 30-36+ months (unopened) (2-3 days opened, refrigerated)
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, can, Crushed, Flavored Diced - 24 months
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, can, Diced, Wedge, Stewed, Whole - 30 months
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, can, No Salt Added Stewed - 18 months
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, fresh ripe (flexible package @ 38 - 40° F. refrigerator) - 2 weeks
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, green (flexible package @ 55 - 70° F. mod. dry basement) - 4 - 6 weeks
    Vegetables, Tomatoes, Libby's - 36 months+ 1-888-884-7269
    Vegetables, Tomato Paste - 30 months
    Vegetables, Tomato Powder - 5+ years (in #10 can with oxygen absorber)
    Vegetables, Tomato Sauce - 12-24 months (unopened) (3 days opened, refrigerated)
    Vinegar (opened) - 12 months
    Vinegar (unopened) - 24 months (some sources say indefinitely in original container)
    Yeast - 24 months (or expiration date on package)
    Yeast (Fleischman's), Freshlike - 24 months 1-800-435-5300
    Yeast, Fleischman’s (800) 777-4959 Date is stamped. If you use it past the stamped date, you must first "PROOF" it. Proof it by bringing ¼ cup of water to the temperature in the instructions on the back. Stir in 1 tsp. of sugar and one packet of yeast. After five minutes it should begin to bubble. At the end of 10 minutes, it should have a rounded crown of foam on it. If this happens, yeast is active. (Be sure to deduct ¼ cup of liquid from your recipe)

    Packaging Codes
    Fruit, Apples, can, Comstock - 24-36 months (800) 270-2743 CODE: On second line, first digit is plant, middle 3 are Julian day of year, next is year, then space, and military time.
    Fruit, Applesauce, Motts (Glass Jar) - 12 months (800) 426-4891
    CODE: After WA, first number is year, second two are month, next two are day.
    Fruit, Prunes, Mariani (Sold at B.J.’s club) - 12 months
    CODE: First number is year, next three are Julian calendar.

    Beans, black, can, Progresso - 24 months (800) 200-9377
    CODE: First letter is month, Next number is year, next letter is mfg plant, next two numbers, day of month. L7N26 = 12/16/97

    Beans, can, Green Giant - 24 months (800) 998-9996
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Beans, can, Joan of Arc - 24-36 months
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Drink Mix, powdered, Tang (sweetened only) - 24 months (800) 431-1002
    CODE: 8315K = 8 is year, 315 is Julian year of 365 days, so was pkg. in Nov "98.

    Flour, General Mills – 18 months 1-800-328-6787
    CODE: MYDDxx (Month code is A-M (skip I). A=June, B = Jul...

    Granola Bars, Nabisco, Snackwells - 6-8 months (800) 622-4726
    CODE: First number is year, next three are day,

    Juice, Apple, Motts - 12 months (800) 426-4891
    CODE: After WA, first number is year, second two are month, next two are day.

    Juice, Apple, Nat’l Fruit Product Co., Whitehouse - 24 months (800) 551-5167
    CODE: First letter is plant, Next # is year, Next letter is product, Next 2 are day, then shift.

    Juice, Apricot, nectar (can), Nestle, Libby - 24 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day Will send info
    Juice, Capri Sun (in pouches) - 18 months (800) 227-7478
    CODE: First digit is the year (8 = 1998). Next three digits is the day on Julian calendar

    Juice (Juicy Juice - most), Nestle - 14 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day

    Juice (Juicy Juice - Strawberry), Nestle - 8 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day

    Juice, Orange, canned, Bluebird - 24 months (800) 237-7805
    CODE: Write words "Chainstore". Under each letter, put a number starting with 1 and ending with a 0 under the "E". This deciphers the code. If Code reads ECCHO = 1/12/98.

    Juice, Papaya, nectar (can), Nestle, Libby - 12 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day. Will send info

    Juice, Peach, nectar (can), Nestle, Libby - 24 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day. Will send info

    Juice, Pear, nectar (can), Nestle, Libby - 24 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day. Will send info

    Juice, Strawberry, nectar (can), Nestle, Libby - 6 months (800) 637-8532
    CODE: First number is the year, next three are Julian calendar day. Will send info

    Juice, V-8, Campbell - 18 months (800) 871-0988
    CODE: Stamped with expiration date.

    Juice, Welches (plastic bottle) - 12 months (800) 240-6870
    CODE: First number is year, letter is mgt plant, next 2 numbers is day of month, next letter is month A=Jan, B=Feb, etc.

    Oil, Canola, American Fare (K-mart) - 12 months (800) 842-7886
    CODE: First 3 digits are Julian date. Last number is year. If kept longer, might be okay, but check for odor. Code 139C8

    Meat, Chili, can, Hormel, Dinty Moore - 5-8 years (800) 523-4635
    CODE: Second and third number is month, next two are day, last number is year.

    Meat, Spam, Hormel - 5-8 years (800) 523-4635
    CODE: Second and third number is month, next two are day, last number is year

    Meat, Tuna, can, Starkist - 4-6 years (800 ) 252-1587
    CODE: Last letter on second row is year, with G= 1998, F=1997, E=1996. Three numbers before that are Julian calendar day

    Mixes, Baking Mixes, Jiffy - 12-24 months
    CODE: L8234 = 8 is year, 234 is Julian year

    Mixes, Baking Mixes, Krusteaz - 18-24 months
    CODE: AB8543 = 8 is year, 543 are month and day

    Mushrooms, can, Green Giant - 48 months (800) 998-9996
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Nestle Carnation products
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Nestle Contadina products
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Oil, Canola, American Fare (K-mart) – 12 months (800) 842-7886
    CODE: First 3 digits are Julian date. Last number is year. If kept longer, might be okay, but check for odor. Code 139C8

    Oil – Crisco (Proctor & Gamble) – 24 months
    CODE: YJJJxxx

    Oil, Olive (Pompeian) – 24 months
    CODE: YMMDDx 410-276-6900

    Oil – Puritan (Proctor & Gamble) – 24 months
    CODE: YJJJxxx

    Pasta, oven ready, American Beauty (Hershey) – 12 months 1-800-468-1714
    CODE: YMMDDxxx

    Pasta, egg noodle, American Beauty (Hershey) – 24 months 1-800-468-1714
    CODE: YMMDDxxx

    Pasta, regular, American Beauty (Hershey) – 36 months 1-800-468-1714
    CODE: YMMDDxxx

    Pasta, canned, Chef Boyardee, International Home Foods in Ontario - 24 months
    CODE: B178 = 8 is year, B is month (A thru L) and 17 is day.

    Pasta, can - Healthy Choice - 24 months 714-680-1431
    CODE: 870T4 = 8 is year, 7 is month.

    Pasta, Ravioli, canned, Chef Boyardee, International Home Foods in Ontario - 24 months
    CODE: B178 = 8 is year, B is month (A thru L) and 17 is day.

    Pasta Sauce (jar) Lipton, Ragu - 24 months (800) 328-7248
    CODE: On first line the last four numbers are the julian day and last number is year.

    Peanut Butter, Skippy - 24 months
    CODE: First digit is month, next two the day, letter is mfg plant, and last number is year.

    Ready Meals, Chicken & Dumplings, can, Sweet Sue - 24 months (800) 633-3294
    CODE: On 1st line - last # is year. On 2nd line - first 2 numbers is the month, next 2 are day.

    Ready Meals, Chicken & Noodles, can, Sweet Sue - 24 months (800) 633-3294
    CODE: On 1st line - last # is year. On 2nd line - first 2 numbers is the month, next 2 are day.

    Shortening, Crisco, Proctor & Gamble - indefinite (Should be used within 12 months of opening) (800) 543-7276
    CODE: First number is year. Next three are Julian calendar

    Shortening, Butter flavor Crisco, Proctor & Gamble - 18 months (Should be used within 6-12 months of opening) (800) 543-7276
    CODE: First number is year. Next three are Julian calendar

    Soup - Campbell - 18-24 months (800) 871-0988
    CODE: Stamped with expiration date.

    Soup, can - Healthy Choice - 24 months 714-680-1431
    CODE: 870T4 = 8 is year, 7 is month.

    Soup, can, Progresso - 36 months (800) 200-9377
    CODE: First letter is month, Next number is year, next letter is mfg plant, next two numbers, day of month. L7N26 = 12/16/97

    Stew, can, Hormel, Dinty Moore - 5-8 years (800) 523-4635
    CODE: Second and third number is month, next two are day, last number is year.

    Vegetables, can, Del Monte - 24 months (800) 543-3090
    CODE: First number is year, next is Julian calendar day

    Vegetables, Green Beans, Canned Cut, Food Club - 24 months (847) 676-3030
    CODE: 29681721 = 8 is year, 9 is month, 6 is day

    Vegetables, can, Libby - 24 months (315) 926-3225 call collect
    CODE: 2nd dig is year, first letter is month, third dig is plant. Next 2 numbers is day of month

    Vegetables, Corn, can, Green Giant - 36 months (800) 998-9996
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Vegetables, Corn, Canned whole kernal, Food Club - 24 months (847) 676-3030
    CODE: 48318 = last 8 is year, first 8 is month, 31 is day

    Vegetables, Kraut, can, Libby - 18 months (315) 926-3225 call collect
    CODE: 2nd dig is year, first letter is month, third dig is plant. Next 2 numbers is day of month

    Vegetables, Peas, can, Green Giant - 36 months (800) 998-9996
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Vegetables, Potatoes, Instant, Hungry Jack - 18 months
    CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    Vegetables, Potatoes, instant, Idaho Spuds, Pillsbury - 18 months (800) 767-4466
    CODE: C8M16 = C is month (A thru L), 8 is year.

    Yeast, Fleischman’s (800) 777-4959
    CODE: Date is stamped. If you use it past the stamped date, you must first "PROOF" it. Proof it by bringing ¼ cup of water to the temperature in the instructions on the back. Stir in 1 tsp of sugar and one packet of yeast. After five minutes it should begin to bubble. At the end of 10 minutes, it should have a rounded crown of foam on it. If this happens, yeast is active. (Be sure to deduct ¼ cup of liquid from your recipe)

    Misc. Date Code Info:
    Del Monte:
    1st is Year, next is Day (Julian calendar which means "238" would be the 238th day of year)

    Libby's:
    YMDDx
    Y: 1 or A = 96
    2 or B = 97
    3 or C = 98
    4 or D = 99
    M: 1-9 = Jan - Sept
    O = Oct
    N = Nov
    D = Dec

    Nestle Carnation products = CODE: First letter is year, next is month, then year

    CODE DEFINITIONS:
    Y=Year Packaged
    MM or M= Month Packaged
    (if only one M then 1-9 = Jan-Sep, A = Oct, B = Nov, C = Dec unless otherwise noted)
    DD=Day Packaged
    JJJ=Julian Day Packaged (Jan 1 = 001, Dec 31 = 365 or 366)
    X= letter or number not significant to product shelf life
    Julian calendar - a calendar introduced in Rome in 46 B.C. establishing the 12-month year of 365 days with each fourth year having 366 days and the months each having 31 or 30 days except for February, which has 28, or in leap years 29 days.
    Julian date:
    1. The sequential day count reckoned consecutively beginning January 1, 4713 B.C. Note: The Julian date on January 1, 1990, was 2,446,892.
    2. The sequential day count of the days of a year, reckoned consecutively from the first day of January.
    The Julian date is the number of days that have passed since noon on January 1st, 4713 B.C. Julian days begin and end at noon, instead of midnight. By subtracting the Julian dates for two actual dates, you can get the number of days between those dates.
    Notes:
    1. Note: Noon is actually 12:00 PM. Midnight is 12:00 AM on the day that is just starting. For example, the midnight between January 1st and January 2nd is actually 12:00 AM January 2nd.
    2. In modern times, the definition of Julian date has been corrupted to use the first day of the year as the point of reference. To avoid ambiguity with the traditional meaning, "day of year" rather than "Julian date" should be used for this purpose.

    Shelflife of Sprouting Seeds
    Adzuki - 3 Years
    Alfalfa - 2 Years
    Almond - 4 Years
    Arugula - 4 Years
    Barley (hulled) - 18 Months
    Basil - 3 Years
    Black Turtle Bean - 4 Years
    Broccoli - 4 Years
    Buckwheat, in hull - 2 Years
    Buckwheat, hulled (Groats) - 2 Years
    Cabbage, Generic - 4 Years
    Cabbage, Green (Early Jersey Wakefield) - 4 Years
    Cabbage, Red - 4 Years
    Cauliflower, Snowball - 4 Years
    Celery - 5 Years
    Clover, Crimson - 2 Years
    Clover, Red - 2 Years
    Cress, Curly - 4 Years
    Dill - 3 Years
    Fennel (leaf) - 3 Years
    Fenugreek - 3 Years
    Flax, Brown - 2 Years
    Flax, Golden - 2 Years
    Garbanzo, Beige - 3 Years
    Garbanzo, Black - 3 Years
    Garbanzo, Brown - 3 Years
    Garlic (Chive) - 18 Months
    Hemp Seed - 3 Years
    Kale, Red Russian - 4 Years
    Kamut® - 18 Months
    Leek - 18 Months
    Lentil, Black - 5 Years
    Lentil, Crimson - 5 Years
    Lentil, French (blue) - 5 Years
    Lentil, Green (regular) - 5 Years
    Lentil, Green (small) - 5 Years
    Lentil, Red (in hull) - 5 Years
    Lentil, Red (hulled) - 5 Years
    Millet - 2 Years
    Mizuna - 4 Years
    Mung Bean - 2 Years
    Mustard, Oriental (yellow) - 4 Years
    Oats, in hull - 2 Years
    Oats, hulless - 18 Months
    Onion - 18 Months
    Pea, Bill Jump (small speckled) - 4 Years
    Pea, Bounty (sweet shelling) - 4 Years
    Pea, Green - 4 Years
    Pea, Snow - 4 Years
    Pea, Sweet Shoot (speckled) - 4 Years
    Pea, Yellow - 4 Years
    Peanut, Valencia - 5 Years
    Pinto Bean - 4 Years
    Popcorn, Red - 8 years
    Popcorn, White - 8 years
    Pumpkin, Naked Seed - 3 Years
    Quinoa - 3 Years
    Radish, China Rose - 4 Years
    Radish, Daikon - 4 Years
    Radish, Oil Seed (generic) - 4 Years
    Rice, Brown (short grain) - 2 Years
    Rye - 18 Months
    Sesame - 2 Years
    Soy Bean - 4 Years
    Spelt - 18 Months
    Sunflower, Black Oil (in hull) - 18 Months
    Sunflower, hulled - 2 Years
    Tatsoi - 4 Years
    Triticale - 2 Years
    Wheat, Hard Red Winter - 2 Years

    Shelflife of Non-Food Items
    Fuel, Coleman (unopened metal gallon container) - 5 years
    Fuel, Coleman (opened metal gallon container) - 8-10 months (to prolong the shelf life open infrequently and store in a cool place)
    Gasoline (oxygenated/treated) - 12 months
    Gasoline (oxygenated/untreated) - 1 month
    Gasoline (nonoxygenated) - 12 months (depending on the additives in it)
    Gasoline (nonoxygenated/treated) - 10 years

    Shelf Life Handouts
    (Books, Booklets, Pamphlets, etc.)
    Food Storage Cooking School Outstanding Publication! ***
    HANDOUT: Shelf Life of Groceries (pdf file)
    From Glitchproof File Archive
    See: http://st4.yahoo.com/lib/glitchproof/pn1202.pdf
    Grocery product shelf life is based upon the Manufacturer's Date Packaged (DP) code. ... Discard any food product exhibiting changed color, odor, or taste.

    General Food Storage Help:
    USAID Commodities Reference Guide - Section III: Storage/Shelf Life Specifications

    Companies Providing Shelflife Info Online:
    Del Monte Foods
    McCormick What is the shelf life of spices and herbs?
    Shelf Life - HeaterMeals

    Water Purification and Storage
    Drinking water is disinfected to kill disease-causing micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses and parasites) which may be in it.

    Many different diseases are spread by drinking water contaminated by micro-organisms, including Campylobacter, cholera, amoebic dysentery, beaver fever (Giardia) [Note: giardia is spread by any four-legged animal] and Cryptosporidia. These organisms usually get into drinking water supplies when source waters (i.e.. lakes, streams) or community water supply pipes or storage reservoirs are contaminated by animal wastes or human sewage.
    In general, surface waters such as streams and lakes are more likely to contain disease-causing organisms than groundwater. Deep wells are safer than shallow wells. In fact, shallow dug wells are often as contaminated as lakes or streams.

    You should disinfect your drinking water if:
    1. your community has been issued a boil water advisory;
    2. you are using water directly from a stream, lake or shallow well;
    3. lab tests of your water show that it contains "fecal coliforms";
    4. an earthquake or other disaster has disrupted your community water supply;
    5. you are traveling in an area where water is not well treated (third world countries); or
    6. you have a weakened immune system (in which case you should disinfect all of
    your drinking water).

    Methods for long term storage of tap water:

    1.) Boiling
    Bring water to a rolling boil for 5 to 10 minutes. Boiling is the best way to kill bacteria, viruses and parasites.

    NOTE: This is not appropriate for water that is obviously heavily polluted, or subject to chemical contamination.

    To remove the flat taste of boiled water, leave the boiled water in a clean covered container for a few hours or pour the cooled boiled water back and forth from one clean container to another.

    2.) Chlorine Bleach
    Household bleach can be used. This should contain a 5.25% solution of sodium hypochlorite without soap additives or phosphates.
    Use 1/8 teaspoon (about 5-8 drops) per gallon of water. Use only 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, such as Clorox bleach -- not scented or colorsafe.
    4 drops regular liquid bleach per quart of water
    16 drops regular liquid bleach per gallon of water
    1 teaspoon regular liquid bleach per 5 gallons of water.
    ( for you non-metrics out there, like my humble self ! )
    Amount of Water Amount of 5% Bleach to Add
    1 gal. (4.5 litres), 2 drops (0.18 mL)
    2-1/2 gal. (10 litres), 5 drops (0.4 mL)
    5 gal. (23 litres), 11 drops (0.9 mL)
    10 gal. (45 litres), 22 drops (1.8 mL)
    22 gal. (100 litres), 3/4 teaspoon (4 mL)
    45 gal. (205 litres), 1-1/2 teaspoons (8 mL)
    50 gal. (230 litres), 1-3/4 teaspoons (9 mL)
    100 gal. (450 litres), 3-1/2 teaspoons (18 mL)
    220 gal. (1000 litres), 8 teaspoons (40 mL)
    500 gal. (2200 litres), 6 tablespoons (90 mL)
    1000 gal. (4550 litres), 6-1/2 ounces or 12 tablespoons (180 mL)

    Mix well; wait 30 minutes. Water should have a slight bleach odor. If not, repeat and wait 15 more minutes. Disinfection using bleach works best with warm water. The disinfection action of bleach depends as much on the waiting time after mixing as to the amount used. The longer the water is left to stand after adding bleach, the more effective the disinfection process will be.

    CAUTION: Bleach does not work well in killing off beaver fever (Giardia) or Cryptosporidium parasites. When the water is not heavily polluted, or when beaver fever (Giardia) or cryptosporidiosis are not a concern the use of unscented household bleach (5% chlorine) is recommended. The amount of bleach needed to kill these parasites makes the water almost impossible to drink. If beaver fever (Giardia) or Cryptosporidium are in your water, boiling is the best way to ensure safe drinking water.

    CAUTION: If you are treating water from a lake, stream or shallow well, use twice as much household (5%) bleach as indicated in the chart below and wait twice as long before drinking it because it is more likely to contain chlorine-resistant parasites from animal droppings. Let the water stand for at least an hour after adding the bleach before you start drinking it.
    CAUTION: If the water is colder than 10°C or has a pH higher than 8, let the water stand for at least two hours before drinking.

    CAUTION: product must contain 5.25% sodium hypochlorite without soap or phosphates.

    CAUTION: If bleach is more than one year old, it loses approximately 50% strength. In this case, the amount of bleach should be doubled. After treating with chlorine, mix well and allow water to stand 30 minutes before using. Use this eyedropper for no other purpose. If the bleach is not dated, at time of purchase, note the date on the bottle with a permanent marker

    3.) Chlorine Tablets
    Follow the manufacturers' directions. When instructions are not available, One or two tablets will purify one quart or one litre of water depending on contamination of water and length of time allowed for treated water to stand. Follow instructions on the package. CAUTION: While economical and convenient, not every brand of purification tablet kills Giardia.

    4.) Granular Calcium Hypo-chlorite
    Add and dissolve one heaping teaspoon of high-test granular calcium hypochlorite (approximately 1/4 ounce) for each two gallons of water.
    To disinfect water, add the chlorine solution in the ratio of one part of chlorine solution to each 100 parts of water to be treated This is roughly equal to adding 1 pint (16 oz.) of stock chlorine to each 12.5 gallons of water to be disinfected To remove any objectionable chlorine odor, aerate the water by allowing the water to stand exposed to the air for a few hours or by pouring it from one clean container to another several times to make the taste more pleasing. Granular Calcium Hypo-chlorite has the added benefit of extended shelf life. Providing it is kept dry, cool and in an airtight container, it may be stored up to 10 years with minimal degradation. If one is wanting to keep chlorine in larger quantities, this is the item to store as is readily available at swimming pool supply stores and many hardware and grocery stores carrying pool items and requires less actual storing space than its liquid counterpart. . To make your own fresh bleach take 10 tablespoons of powdered 65% calcium hypochlorite (swimming pool "burn-out" or "shock treatment) must be pure hypochlorite - no algicides or fungicides to one gallon of water in a VERY well ventilated area (ie. outside AWAY from the house). That will give you the same concentration as fresh household bleach, approx. 5.25%. That gallon will treat 5,000 gallons of clear water or 2,500 gal. of cloudy water. Water should be stirred and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Use a 1:10 bleach/water solution for cleaning instruments and surfaces. Tuberculosis organisms are the only organism that chlorine will not kill (including you, so don't make bleach indoors unless you are trying to get rid of insects or rodents the hard way).

    Folks, powdered or granulated calcium hypochlorite is REALLY cheap, stock up on this and help save people's lives. A one gallon container of 65% CaCl will treat 125,000 gallons of clear water.

    5.) 2% Tincture of Iodine
    To use this add 12 drops per gallon of water. Whenever possible use warm water (20 °C) and let stand a minimum of 20 minutes after mixing and before drinking For cold water (5 - 15°C) increase the waiting time after mixing to 40 minutes. For cloudy water add ten drops and let the solution stand for at least 30 minutes.

    CAUTION: pregnant or nursing women or people with thyroid problems should not drink water with iodine as it may have an effect on the fetus.
    CAUTION: Iodine should not be used to disinfect water over long periods of time as prolonged use can cause thyroid problems.

    CAUTION: The use of iodine as a means of disinfection may not be effective in guarding against exposure to Giardia or Cryptosporidium. Therefore, iodine use should be limited to the disinfection of well water (as opposed to surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, and springs), because well water is unlikely to contain these disease causing organisms.

    6.) Iodine Tablets
    Use as stated. When instructions are not available, use one tablet for each quart of water to be purified. Generically known as halazone tablets.
    CAUTION: The use of iodine as a means of disinfection may not be effective in guarding against exposure to Giardia or Cryptosporidium. Therefore, iodine use should be limited to the disinfection of well water (as opposed to surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, and springs), because well water is unlikely to contain these disease causing organisms. Follow the manufacturer's directions.

    CAUTION: Iodine should not be used to disinfect water over long periods of time as prolonged use can cause thyroid problems. Whenever possible use warm water (20 °C) and let stand a minimum of 20 minutes after mixing and before drinking For cold water (5 - 15°C) increase the waiting time after mixing to 40 minutes.

    7.) Stabilized Oxygen
    To purify 8 oz. of Giardia-contaminated water, add 5 - 20 drops of stabilized oxygen. Stabilized oxygen is neither harmful nor has a taste. Conversely, it has a number of health benefits. Reports from people that have used this method feel it is more favorable than iodine and chlorine. Both iodine and chlorine have shown some side effects if used for an extended period of time and these treatments have a taste to them. Non-Toxic - tasteless, Approx. 1260 drops per 2 fl oz (70 ml) bottle, Removes harmful anaerobic bacteria, viruses and chlorine from water Usage: 5-20 drops per 8 oz of Giardia contaminated water. For long term water storage use 10 drops per chlorinated gallon and 20 drops per gallon non-chlorinated water. (Treats approx. 63 to 126 gallons of water at this rate.) To bacterially purify your drinking water, 5 - 20 drops per glass of water will control coliform bacteria. (Treats approx. 4 - 16 gallons of possible contaminated water at this rate.) Widely used in all of North America. United States FDA - Mexico and Guatemala approved for water purification. Kills anaerobic infectious bacteria like: Salmonella, Cholera, Achillea, Giardia Lamblia. Sustains aerobic organisms - Does not harm the beneficial bacteria needed for good health.

    Ionized or stabilized Oxygen: This is the most high tech way of purifying water that I know of in the field. It is also good for you! The others generally cause at least some stress on your system. Dollar for dollar, ionized water will purify the same amount of water as the water purification tablets. And something Key: In the event you have to leave your home, the 2 oz bottle is convenient to carry with you.

    To Order: I 50 WATER PURIFY Ion Stabilized Oxygen 2 oz dropper BOTTLE 14.98

    See Walton Feed - Rainy Day Foods for shipping costs or call 1-800-269-8563 Monday-Friday 7:30 am-5pm Mountain time. Mailing Address: Walton Feed 135 North 10th, P.O. Box 307 Montpelier, ID 83254 Voice 800-269-8563 Fax: 208-847-0467

    Storage
    Store three days' worth of water
    (one gallon per person per day)
    Water weighs approximately 14-15 pounds per gallon.
    If water is bacteria-free and is stored in clean containers it will stay safe for several years. It is a good idea, however, to periodically check your water for purity and taste. It's a good idea to change it every few years.

    Assuming clean and deodorized food-grade containers are used, untreated water straight from your tap should keep 6 months, but MUST be changed thereafter.

    Bacteria-free water, which means successful treatment by one of the accepted methods listed, will keep several years depending on heat, light, degradation of the container, etc.

    Listed Methods include:
    boiling, liquid chlorine bleach, dry chlorine, iodine, tablets,
    Store the water in a clean and sanitary glass or plastic container. Plastic containers are good because they are lightweight and unbreakable. Metal containers should be considered as a last resort because they may corrode and give water an unpleasant taste.. Rotate the water in storage tanks every year. Water should be stored in clean, sanitized containers with tight fitting screw-on caps. Commercial gallon bottles of filtered/purified spring water often carry expiration dates two years after the bottling date. A good rotation program is necessary to ensure your supply of water remains fresh and drinkable. Don't use milk cartons.; it's practically impossible to remove the milk residue. Bleach bottles are recommended by others,. . . apparently bleach manufacturers don't recommend it. Store water in thoroughly washed plastic, glass, fiberglass, or enamel-lined metal containers. Seal containers tightly, label them and store them in a cool dark place. Rotate water every 6 months Plastic containers, such as soft drink 3 Liter bottles, are best. You can also purchase food grade buckets or drums. Plastic juice and milk containers are less desirable as they tend to crack and leak more readily.

    CAUTION: Never use a container that has held toxic substances.

    Storage Areas
    Store your water away from paint and petroleum-based products, acids or anything releasing objectionable odors like fertilizer or household cleaners. While able to hold water, .... lower grade containers, such as plastic gallon containers, are permeable to certain gases. CAUTION: Avoid placing water containers in areas where toxic substances, such as gasoline and pesticides are present. These vapors penetrate the plastic after a time.

    Future Water Supply
    The Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems, Austin, Texas, publishes the Texas Guide to Rainwater Harvesting. They can be reached at 8604 F.M. 969, Austin, Texas 78724, telephone 512-928-4786.
    Shelf Life of Food
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Jan 26, 2015
    Alanaana, jim2, chelloveck and 16 others like this.
  2. ghrit

    ghrit Bad company Administrator Founding Member

    THAT is a keeper.
     
    Zimmy and Beano like this.
  3. ghostrider

    ghostrider Resident Poltergeist Founding Member

    Good stuff.
     
  4. Quigley_Sharps

    Quigley_Sharps The Badministrator Administrator Founding Member

    what he said^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
     
  5. poacher

    poacher Monkey+++ Founding Member

    Excellent post RH!!!
    I'm not sure about all of the contents of the post but I know a fair amount of that info is in my "Back to Basics" book. Either way it makes the ole brain cells work a little bit.
    Take care Be safe Poacher
     
  6. RightHand

    RightHand Been There, Done That RIP 4/15/21 Moderator Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    That's always the question from information obtained on the internet - how accurate is it when the original source is usually unknown. It is a good starting point for research though.
     
    DuxDawg likes this.
  7. ghostrider

    ghostrider Resident Poltergeist Founding Member

    I read most of it, only mistake I saw, water weighs 8.33 lb/gal + weight of container, of course.
     
    Zimmy and Falcon15 like this.
  8. poacher

    poacher Monkey+++ Founding Member

    Fourteen pounds per gallon is just a tad bit high in the weight department, lol. I especially liked the chlorine from the pool place. Talk about buying in bulk. Like I said good ideas and makes you work the brain cells.
    Take care Be safe Poacher.
     
  9. E.L.

    E.L. Moderator of Lead Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    Awesome! Use your mod powers and make this one a sticky.
     
    Zimmy likes this.
  10. monkeyman

    monkeyman Monkey+++ Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    Im useing it now to try to rotate stores on the boat. Good info, thanks.
     
  11. <exile>

    <exile> Padawan Learner

    This is an old thread but good one...keep up the good work.
     
  12. hacon1

    hacon1 Monkey+++

    Great info!!! Filed saved and printed to hard copy. Thank you very much!
     
  13. Hard candy and chocolate only around 2 years?!

    I’ve been munching on chocolate bars that are at least 3 years old.
    And I’ve eaten candy that’s been over 5 years old.

    I’ve eaten lots of things years after their expiration dates. ;D
     
  14. SLugomist

    SLugomist Monkey++


    Do you have antenna's? LOL jkin
    I've also heardthat hardcandy has an extremely long shelf life.

    Great post, worth printing.
     
  15. Brokor

    Brokor Live Free or Cry Moderator Site Supporter+++ Founding Member

    Beans, Dried - 12-24 months ( in their original container)
    Beans, Dried - indefinitely (resealed in a food grade container w/oxygen absorber or vacuum sealed in a food grade bag)

    Dried beans will last a whole lot longer than 12-24 months in many packages that they come in. What matters most is HOW they are stored. I haven't tested every brand in the whole world, but even a sack cloth bag of dried beans will last a few years longer than 12-24 months -and indefinitely IF they can be kept DRY. Of course, using a quality sealed container will extend shelf life indefinitely.
     
    Zimmy and Falcon15 like this.
  16. No, I’m your average early 21st century human. lol
     
  17. Buz

    Buz Monkey+++ Founding Member

    Much appreciated. Thanks.
     
  18. recon

    recon Senior Member Founding Member

    Wow! Great info there! Thanks! Going to copy this puppy!
     
  19. WestPointMAG

    WestPointMAG Monkey++

    pearlselby likes this.
  20. Buz

    Buz Monkey+++ Founding Member

    Meat, Spam, Hormel - Indefinite 1-800-523-4635

    Thanks for this great listing. I had doubts about the Spam lasting indefinitely, so I called Hormel and sure enough, "indefinitely".
    If you think Spam is nasty, try it fried after 4-5 days on the trail.
     
    Brokor and pearlselby like this.
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