Have you ever wondered which items in your pantry have an almost eternal shelf life? In the pursuit of reducing food waste and making fewer trips to the grocery store, especially in uncertain times, it’s valuable to know which foods you can rely on to stay good almost indefinitely. This knowledge helps in planning meals and ensures you’re getting the most out of every grocery run. So, what food never goes bad? This article will explore the top 5 foods. 

What Food Never Goes Bad? 5 Popular Foods

1. Honey

Imagine discovering honey that’s over 3,000 years old and still edible. Archaeologists found that in Egyptian tombs. Thanks to bees, who use an enzyme to convert nectar into honey, this natural sweetener remains just 17% water. Its low water content and acidic pH of 3.9 create an inhospitable environment for microbes, allowing honey to maintain its quality over millennia. If honey crystallizes, which is common, simply warming it up will restore its smooth consistency.

Pixabay | Pexels | Honey’s low water content and acidic pH of 3.9 create an inhospitable environment for microbes, allowing it to maintain its quality over millennia.

2. Dried Beans

While canned beans have a few years of shelf life, dried beans tell a different story. Kept in a cool, dry place, these legumes can last for decades without losing their nutritional value. Research from Brigham Young University showed that dried pinto beans retained their protein content even after 32 years. Although older beans might need longer cooking times, soaking them overnight can reduce cooking duration and enhance digestibility without any health risks.

3. Vinegar

Vinegar’s high acidity, around a pH of 2.4, naturally preserves it, eliminating the need for refrigeration. This acidic property is also why vinegar is a popular choice for preserving other foods. While some vinegars might develop a haze or change color over time, these changes do not affect their safety or efficacy. For those who prefer their vinegar to remain pristine over the years, distilled white vinegar is recommended, as it remains clear for decades and can even be used to clean appliances.

Addilyn Ragsdill @clockworklemon.com | Unsplash | Vinegar’s high acidity, around a pH of 2.4, naturally preserves it, eliminating the need for refrigeration.

4. The Stability of Rice Varieties

Rice, particularly white, jasmine, basmati, and arborio varieties, has a commendable shelf life when stored properly in a cool, dark place. These grains can last up to five years under ideal conditions, and vacuum-sealed rice can remain good for up to 25 years. It’s worth noting that brown rice, which contains more oils and fiber, does not boast the same longevity due to its higher fat content, which can turn rancid.

MART PRODUCTION | Pexels | Rice has a commendable shelf life when stored properly in a cool, dark place.

5. Powdered Milk 

Scientists have noted that ultra-pasteurized shelf-stable milk last about 90 days unopened. However, nonfat powdered milk surpasses this by lasting over a decade if stored in a cool, dry environment and practically forever in the freezer. The secret to its longevity lies in removing the elements that cause spoilage – water and milk fats. Powdered milk can be rehydrated for drinking or used as a creamy addition to recipes, providing a versatile and long-lasting dairy option.

Stocking up on these durable staples ensures a well-prepared pantry and contributes to more sustainable eating habits.