Some foods are famous for their incredibly long shelf life. Under the right conditions, these foods can last indefinitely, making them ideal for long-term storage. Here are 10 foods that never expire:
- Honey – Due to its low moisture content and acidic pH, honey can last forever. Archaeologists have even found edible honey in ancient tombs.
- Salt – Salt, especially sea salt or Himalayan salt, doesn’t spoil or expire and can remain safe to use for an unlimited amount of time.
- Sugar – Like salt, sugar doesn’t spoil. If stored in a cool, dry place, it can last indefinitely, though it may clump over time.
- White rice – If stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, white rice can last for decades or even longer, sometimes indefinitely.
- Dried beans – Beans can last indefinitely if kept in a cool, dry environment. They may lose some nutritional value over time but still remain safe to eat.
- Vinegar – Vinegar, due to its acidity, has a shelf life that can extend indefinitely. It may lose some flavor over time, but it won’t spoil.
- Soy sauce – With its high salt content, soy sauce doesn’t spoil and can last indefinitely when stored properly.
- Hardtack – A type of biscuit made from flour, water, and salt, hardtack was historically used for long sea voyages and expeditions because it doesn’t spoil.
- Pemmican – A mixture of dried meat and fat, often with added berries, pemmican was used by Indigenous peoples of North America and explorers. It can last indefinitely when kept in the right conditions.
- Canned goods – If stored properly, canned foods like vegetables, fruits, and meats can last a very long time, even up to 10-20 years or longer. The seal is crucial to preserving the food inside.
These foods are all shelf-stable when stored properly, though for some, the taste, texture, or nutritional value might decrease over time.
