Prepping for the worst-case scenario can make all the difference in an emergency. Food and water are essential items for emergencies. But having a first aid and trauma kit could save you or someone else’s life.
You can assemble a set of supplies that will help you manage any emergency. Here’s a list of first aid and trauma kits to get started.
What is a Trauma Kit?
A trauma kit is also known as a bleeding kit. It is a supply of equipment and medications designed for life-threatening injuries. You will use it for gunshot or knife wounds and amputations. It’s used for any major bleeding that might result in death in minutes if treatment is not provided.
What is the Difference Between a Trauma Kit and First Aid Kit?
First aid kits can help treat minor injuries like scrapes and cuts. But trauma kits contain supplies and equipment necessary to stop serious bleeding.
To summarize, first-aid kits help treat minor injuries, and trauma kits help save lives.
Emergency Kit Items List
You must include these basic first aid supplies in any emergency preparedness kit. Keep the kits in a secure, accessible location, such as your car or home. Also, ensure that all supplies are up-to-date with fresh items. Learn how to use them, so you know what to do in an emergency.
Top 10 Items in A First Aid Kit
If you plan to design a small first aid kit for yourself and your family, here is a list of 10 essential items to include:
1. Antiseptic wipes or solutions to clean wounds.
2. Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.
3. Gauze pads and roller gauze to dress wounds.
4. Scissors, tweezers, and safety pins to aid in dressing wounds.
5. Disposable gloves to protect against infection and contamination.
6. Instant cold press for minor sprains and strains.
7. Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
8. Hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and inflammation.
9. Pain relievers to manage pain and discomfort.
10. A first aid manual to help guide you through treating minor injuries.
Top 20 Items In a First Aid Kit
If you want a complete first aid kit, here is a list of 20 essential items to include:
Sterile gauze pads to apply direct pressure on wounds.
Adhesive and roller bandages to cover minor wounds and secure gauze pads in place.
Triangle bandages to create a sling when tying off limbs.
Adhesive bandages to cover minor wounds.
Safety pins of different sizes for securing bandages or clothing.
Antiseptic wipes, saline solution, or hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds and prevent infection.
Cotton balls or iodized cotton swabs to apply antiseptic to wounds.
Tweezers to remove splinters, thorns, and other debris from wounds.
Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and help wounds heal.
Hydrocortisone cream to help relieve itching and reduce inflammation.
Instant cold press to reduce swelling and help relieve pain.
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and discomfort.
Medical scissors to cut bandages, tape, and clothing in an emergency.
Emergency blanket to keep the patient warm and protect from the elements.
Breathing barrier (with one-way valve) to prevent contamination during CPR.
Disposable gloves to help protect against contamination.
Digital thermometer to check a patient’s temperature in case of fever or other illness.
Emergency whistle to alert rescuers in case of emergency.
Flashlight to provide light in the dark and in emergencies.
First aid manual to help guide you through treating common injuries and illnesses.
Military Trauma Kit Contents
The trauma kit requires more advanced supplies than the first aid kit due to the nature of combat. Here is a trauma kit supplies list for military use:
Patient Assessment Tools
Without these instruments, you can’t test, visualize, and quantify important processes. Some examples of tools to include are:
Assorted standard dressings ranging from 4x4s and 5x9s to ABD
Airway/ Breathing Management Tools
These tools assist a patient’s airway, breathing, and ventilation.
Oral and nasal airways
Pocket mask
Manual suction device
Chest decompression supplies
Collapsible bag valve mask
Invasive airway control devices, like endotracheal intubation
Materials for Minor Trauma
Aside from trauma supplies, it’s important to include materials for minor wounds. Having different sizes of trauma dressings and gauze is essential. These are some of the items to include:
Antiseptic solution or wipes
Saline flush
Gauze pads
Tape
Adhesive bandages
Instant cold press
Antibiotic ointment
Hydrocortisone cream
Pain relievers
Forceps
Tweezers
Scissors
Ortho Supplies
Orthopedic trauma supplies help stabilize fractures and other injuries. These are some of the items to include:
Cold packs (These have come in handy on a number of occasions. We keep these stocked in our car and kids sports bags.)
Compression wraps
Sam splints
Cervical collars
Casts
Slings
Ortho traction devices
Routine Medicines
Having routine medicines for common illnesses and injuries is important. OTC medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and antihistamines are useful. You should have an assortment of common OTC drugs, such as:
Pain relievers
Cough and cold medicines
Antihistamines
Laxatives
Antacids
Decongestants
Antidiarrheal medicines
Eye drops
Various vitamins and minerals
Transport System/ Team
Trauma kits should include supplies to assist medical personnel in transporting a patient. Some of the items to include are:
Stretchers
Carrying bags
Spine boards with straps
Collapsible gurneys
Neck collars
Blankets
Head immobilizers
Other Emergency Items or Supplies
You should also have a list of the contact numbers of doctors, hospitals, and clinics in an emergency.
Also, having a portable phone charger is important in case you need to call for help.
Do You Need Training to Use a Trauma Kit?
Although a trauma kit is not a substitute for medical training, it has the tools to help save lives. It’s important to know how to use the tools and supplies in your kit and understand when you need to use them.
Those who want to prepare can enroll in First Aid for Severe Trauma (FAST). It’s a nationwide STOP THE BLEED® course where you may learn bleeding control techniques.
Also, training on using an AED and anaphylaxis injections and asthma may be helpful, should the need arise.
Conclusion: Trauma Kit Supplies List
Having a trauma kit with the necessary supplies is essential to prevent injuries from getting worse. Training to use them can save lives in an emergency.
Gather your supplies and design your trauma kits. Then, place them in accessible areas. Don’t wait until it’s too late — equip yourself with the proper tools and prepare for any situation.
Knowing if you can eat pine cones aka conifer cones in the wild is essential for survival. We both know what can happen when you eat the bad thing that looks like the safe thing…
But what about those prickly and seemingly inedible cones found on pine trees? Can you eat pine cones for survival in a pinch?
In short, yes, you can eat pine cones. But it depends on the species and if they are mature enough.
However, they are not a recommended food source for humans due to their tough texture and indigestibility. Read on to find out how a pine cone could be used in an emergency situation if nothing else is available.
What is a Pine Cone?
Pine cones are cone-shaped seed-bearing structures produced by coniferous trees. Examples are pine, fir, spruce, and cedar.
Pine cones refer to the fruit only found on pine trees. Pine trees produce male and female cones, though only the female cones are edible.
Female pine cones contain seeds larger than their male counterparts. They are usually found in clusters near the ends of branches.
They also have a smooth surface covered in woody scales, rather than the spiky scales found on male cones.
Male pine cones resemble thin cylinders and are smaller, resembling little corn cobs.
Pine cones might not look appealing, but they’re a good food source in survival situations.
You can easily spot a pine tree in most of North America and Europe. Pine trees have long, soft needles (up to three inches long) and scaly bark. They also have long, thin stems with branches that resemble an umbrella.
The most common edible pine cone is from the sugar pine tree, which produces the largest cone in the world. Other edible pine cones include those from the whitebark, bull, and Coulter pines.
The best way to identify an edible pinecone is by its shape and size. Large pine cones are more likely to be edible, and have smoother scales, fewer prickles, and a thicker texture.
Which Parts of a Pine Cone Can You Eat?
The edible parts of the pine cone include the seeds, nuts, and pollen.
Pine Nuts or Pine Seeds
Pine nuts are the little, edible seeds you will find at the center of pine cones. They are delicious whether eaten raw, roasted or made into flour.
You can easily extract pine nuts by cracking them open with a rock or hammer. Then, just use your fingers to remove the seeds from the pine cones.
You can save time by spreading the pine cones to dry on a flat surface. So we’re looking at a few weeks for this.
If the pine cone is very hard, you can roast it over an open flame to soften the scales and make it easier to remove the pine seeds.
Pine Pollen
Pine pollen is edible and has a high concentration of protein. Throughout the spring, male pine cones release yellow pollen, which is a cluster of yellow-brown tubes around a central stem.
Pine pollens are a great nutritious booster you can use in salads, flour, and smoothies.
Can You Eat Pine Needles?
Yes. You may eat pine needles. You can also eat needles from a spruce or fir tree. They are rich in vitamins A and C.
Pine needles often taste different. You should try different kinds of conifers to see which one you like best. You can eat them raw or use them to make tea or add to soups or stews.
To remove the needles from the tree, snap them close to the trunk. Choose bright, young needles less than two inches long to eat them raw. Older needles can be tough and fibrous.
The inner bark of pine trees is also edible. However, they’re hard to chew, so you must cook them to make them palatable.
To remove the bark, use a sharp knife to peel it away from the woody exterior. The innermost layer of the bark is the most tender and nutrient-rich.
Are Pine Cones Poisonous to Humans?
There are more than 120 different kinds of pine trees. Unfortunately, several pine trees and their different parts may harm humans and animals.
While pine cones often aren’t dangerous to people, there are always exceptions. The following species may harm animals, so you should not consume them.
Ponderosa pine. When consumed by cattle, it decreases blood flow and abortion. Evidence suggests that this pine tree and its products are poisonous to cattle. It’s best to stay away from them.
Lodgepole pine or Pinus contorta. It’s harmful to people and animals alike.
Jeffrey pine, Rocky Mountain juniper, and juniper pine. The cones of some pine species are toxic, so you shouldn’t consume them.
Norfolk Island pine and Yew trees. These red pine cones are not real pine trees. They are harmful and you should avoid them.
Before eating a pine cone, take caution when picking them off the ground. They can contain dirt, bacteria, and parasites that can make you ill.
How to Eat Pine Cones
Once you’ve harvested your pine cones, there are numerous ways to prepare them for consumption. Most people roast them at a low temperature in the oven until they are crisp and crunchy.
Another way to prepare them is by boiling them in water for 10-15 minutes. Then, add spices or sauces for a flavorful dish.
You can also grind the raw pine cone into a flour-like consistency and use them instead of regular flour in recipes for baked products, including bread, cakes, and cookies.
How to Make Pine Cone Jam
Pine cone jam is a traditional recipe used for centuries. It’s sweet and resinous, and you can serve them with toast or ice cream or eat it alone.
To make pine cone jam, heat 1 cup of water in a saucepan and add 3 cups of fresh green pine cones.
Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes. Do this until you can smell the aroma of cooked pine cones.
Add 1/2 cup of sugar and simmer for 5 minutes until it forms a thick syrup. If needed, add more sugar to taste.
Then remove from heat and let cool before transferring to jars.
Wrap Up: Can You Eat Pine Cones For Survival?
Pine cones are a great resource that can provide food if you need it. Knowing which pine cone to eat and how to cook it can be lifesaving.
Just remember: always clean your pine cone and prepare them properly. Grabbing a cone off the forest floor and chowing down is not a great idea and could make you sick when that’s the last thing you need in a survival situation. If you’ve ever eaten pine cones, share your experience below in the comments.
Paracord bracelet patterns are more than just decorative pieces; they’re functional belts, bracelets and keychains that can be an essential tool in an emergency situation.
Many of us remember the paracord bracelet craze that swept the prepper community back in the 2010s. Anybody and everybody was wearing them. It was almost like you weren’t a prepper unless you were rocking an OD green or camo paracord bracelet.
I remember seeing them in gas stations, Walmart, even clothing stores… It’s like they were everywhere. And there’s a simple reason why: they’re cool, unique, inexpensive, and easy to make. (And they’re a great addition for glove boxes and bug out bags).
Before we talk about different paracord bracelet patterns, let’s address one question: what is a paracord bracelet?
A paracord bracelet is a “survival bracelet,” made up of military grade 550 cord or parachute cord. It is lightweight and packs a big punch in any survival situation. The cordage from it can be used to build a shelter, make a splint or used as a tourniquet. You can even unravel the inner strands and use them to fish, the list goes on and on.
Let’s read on to learn how to make these bracelets and find out which pattern uses the most cord.
To get started on making your own paracord bracelets; you will need paracord, scissors, a lighter (to burn the ends) and a buckle if you choose to use one.
There are a variety of of strength types and different colored paracord to choose from. Be sure to choose a 550 cord or higher if you plan on creating a bracelet as a survival tool. The higher you go the stronger the cord.
A 550 cord is rated to handle a minimum of a static 550 lb. load making it a good choice for emergency use. See the chart below for reference.
Type
Strength
Internal Strands
Diameter
95 Paracord
180 lbs.
1
1.75 mm
275 Paracord
275 lbs.
4
2 mm
550 Paracord
550 lbs.
7
3.9 mm
750 Paracord
750 lbs.
11
3.9 mm
Paracord Comparison Chart
Pros of paracord bracelet buckles:
There are several benefits of using buckles in paracord bracelets. Buckles serve as a quick-release mechanism, making them indispensable for survival scenarios. Additionally, the aesthetic aspect of a well-designed buckle can elevate the entire bracelet, making it not just functional but also a fashion statement.
– Easier to take on and off without having to untie the paracord knot every time.
– Buckles are often more decorative and come in a wide range of colors, materials, and styles.
– Buckles hold paracord bracelets better on your wrist than paracord without buckles.
Cons of paracord bracelet buckles:
However, buckles on paracord bracelets or belts comes with some downsides. While they offer convenience, they can also be the weakest link in a paracord bracelet’s structure. A low-quality buckle could compromise the bracelet’s integrity, leading to potential failure in emergency situations.
– Some people are allergic to metal buckles, so if you’re making a paracord bracelet for someone with metal allergies, it’s best to use paracord without a buckle, or use a plastic buckle.
– The metal buckles can add weight to paracord bracelets, making them less comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
The most common paracord bracelet buckles are made of plastic or metal, and they come in a variety of sizes. Plastic paracord bracelet buckles are the most affordable option and are great for paracord projects that don’t need a lot of strength.
Metal paracord bracelet buckles provide more strength and durability, so they are better suited for paracord projects that require more strength and stability.
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to paracord bracelets with buckles or paracord bracelets without buckles. The best place to find buckles for bracelets and belt buckles is here on Amazon.
Photo of different colored paracord bracelets on a log.
Paracord Bracelet Patterns
Now, let’s dive into the heart of the topic—paracord bracelet patterns. These designs are more than just visual treats; they can actually influence the bracelet’s strength and usability.
From the popular Cobra pattern to the intricate King Cobra, each offers its own set of advantages and challenges.
Now, here is a list of some of the most popular paracord bracelet patterns.
1. Monkey’s Fist – Okay, this is technically not a bracelet but a simple and effective design. It’s super popular, and an easy way to create a paracord impact weapon or paracord key chain.
This paracord bracelet pattern uses two separate cord lengths to form a knot resembling a monkey’s fist.
H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video: How to Make a Monkey’s Fist with No Marble / Ball Bearing Tutorial
And here’s a great video showing how to make a Mini Monkey’s Fist Stinger Keychain Impact Tool
H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord
2. Cobra – The cobra paracord bracelet patterns are one of the most common. It uses one continuous cord to create an intertwined design.
The cobra stitch gives the paracord bracelet a unique look and can be used in various paracord projects.
TIP: You can also make a 2 color paracord bracelet using this technique, as shown in the video.
Here’s a video from Beadaholique showing the cobra paracord bracelet patterns:
3. Fishtail – The fishtail is a wide paracord bracelet pattern that is easy to make, and it’s great for uses where you want to wear something a bit wider.
It creates a woven paracord pattern that looks similar to a fishtail, hence the name. Like the Cobra, this can also be made into a 2 color bracelet, as shown in the video below.
Here’s a video from The Weavers of Eternity Paracord showing How to Tie a Fishtail Paracord Bracelt:
4. Quick Deploy Millipede – This is designed to be easily undone and deployed in an instant.
H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video A Quick Deploy Paracord Bracelet SO Simple That You Can Make and Unravel It In 1 MINUTE!:
5. Trilobite – This paracord bracelet pattern is similar to the quick deploy millipede, but it’s designed with a trilobite design. It is great for paracord projects that require a quick deployment paracord bracelet pattern.
H/T to Paracord Planet for their Easy Trilobite Paracord Bracelet video:
6. Conquistador – This is a WIDE paracord bracelet pattern. If you’ve got a big wrist or just want to rock a wide bracelet, this is for you.
H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video: How to Make a Conquistador Paracord Bracelet Tutorial
7. Easy Paracord Bracelet – If you just want something simple you can put together that uses one color and looks good… this is a great option.
H/T to KevinBrauer for his great video on Easy Paracord Bracelet Tutorial
Two Color Paracord Bracelet Patterns
Exploring 2-color paracord bracelet patterns opens up new dimensions in design and utility. By using two colors, you not only add visual appeal but also increase the ease of identification for different strands, which can be particularly helpful in emergency situations.
8. Chain Sinnet – The chain sinnet paracord bracelet pattern creates a unique design that resembles a chain. It’s best used for paracord projects that require a light, flexible paracord bracelet.
The video below uses two colors so it’s a good option if you’re looking for something with a little more pop.
Here’s a video from Paracord guild:
9. King Cobra – This paracord bracelet pattern is based off of the cobra stitch, but it’s more intricate and takes a bit longer to finish.
It’s best suited for paracord projects that require strong, durable paracord bracelets. If you like big watches or big bracelets, this is for you. The king cobra pattern uses the most cordage per bracelet making it great for survival situations. This single bracelet can give you 18-20 ft of paracord once taken apart.
I like this video from UniformWarrior showing How to make the King Cobra Paracord Bracelet:
10. Boa Knot – The boa knot paracord bracelet pattern is a bit more complex than some of the other paracord patterns, but it creates an elegant paracord bracelet with its intertwined design.
Here’s a video from BoredParacord showing how to Make the “Intertwined Boa” Paracord Survival Bracelet:
11. Basket Weave – This wide paracord bracelet pattern is perfect for paracord projects that need a wide and strong paracord bracelet.
The basket weave pattern creates a weaving design that looks like it came straight off of the loom. Honestly, I like the look of this one if you’re going for something wide. And this one does not require a buckle.
Here’s a video tutorial from CbyS Paracord and More:
12. Oat Spike Sinnet – This paracord bracelet pattern creates a unique woven design that you won’t see a lot of. Another good option for a 2 color paracord bracelet.
H/T to Paracord Crafts for their video: Oat Spike Sinnet Paracord Bracelet
13. Truck Tire – This is a beefy, wide paracord bracelet with a truck tire design, hence its name. It’s best suited for paracord projects that require a paracord bracelet with a strong and durable construction.
H/T to CbyS Paracord and More for their video: How to Make a „Truck Tires” Paracord Survival Bracelet
14. Katana Wrap – Ok, for all you TWD fans, this is how you would wrap your Katana to look like Michonne’s. It’s pretty cool. And a little finicky, so patience is required.
H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord Bracelet Tutorial (Michonne from the Walking Dead)
Three Color Paracord Bracelet Patterns
Similarly, 3-color paracord bracelet patterns bring additional layers of complexity and visual flair. They allow for creative expressions, like patriotic themes or personalized color combinations, while also offering the functional benefit of color-coded utility.
15. Mated Snake – This is definitely a wider bracelet so if you’re looking for something a big bigger, a bit unique and want to use 3 colors. And it’s pretty simple.
H/T to Paracord guild for their video: 3 color Mated snake knot paracord bracelet
16 Tri-Color Solomon – I wouldn’t necessarily call this a wide paracord bracelet, but it’s definitely not thin. Kind of in between. A great option for a middle of the road thickness if you want to use 3 colors.
H/T to Paracord 101 for their video: How to weave the Tri-Color Solomon Paracord Bracelet
Key Takeaways of Paracord Bracelet Patterns
In this guide, we have journeyed through the pros and cons of buckles, delved deep into the realm of paracord bracelet patterns, and explored the rich tapestry of colors and designs available.
All these elements, combined together, help you make an informed decision in your next paracord bracelet project.
No matter which paracord bracelet pattern you choose, it is important to make sure you have the correct bracelet buckle for your project.
The right bracelet buckles will ensure that your paracord projects look great and last for a long time. You can find the best assortment of buckles here on Amazon.
Did I miss one? Is there another design you really like that I forgot to mention? Leave a comment below.
Rice is one of the most universally accepted foods on the planet. And because it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to store long term, it’s a no-brainer for the dedicated prepper.
It seems like every other visit to Costco my wife and I are grabbing a bag of rice… So we decided to write this guide to help you and other prepper’s understand how to properly store rice long term.
Before we dive into the methods, it’s important to understand the basics of rice storage. Rice is susceptible to moisture, insects, and oxygen, affecting its quality and shelf life. To store rice long term, you need to protect it from these elements.
Rice preservation is about controlling temperature, air, and moisture to keep your rice fresh and flavorful. The key to successfully store rice long term begins with the following:
● Selecting the right type of rice
● Preparing it for storage
● Storing in appropriate containers
● Maintaining the environment where you will store rice long term.
Factors to Consider When Storing Rice Long-Term
Before talking about different rice storage techniques, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect rice storage. These factors include:
Types of Rice
Different types of rice have different storage requirements.
Rice Type
Shelf-life
Shelf-life When Stored Properly
White
2 years
30+ years
Brown/Black/Purple
6 months
1 – 1.5 years
Wild
10 years
30+ years
As you can see, different types of rice have different shelf lives. And how you store rice long term can make all the difference. So it’s crucial to consider the type of rice you want to store and adjust your storage plan accordingly.
Temperature
The best storage temperature for rice is between 40 – 70°F. Ideally, you should store your rice in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. It’s best to store rice long term in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a basement or root cellar.
Pests
If you’ve ever stored rice for a long period of time, you may have come across rice bugs, also known as weevils. These pests are small and reddish-brown and can easily infest rice, flour, and other grains. They can quickly reproduce and contaminate large quantities of stored food if left unchecked.
Fortunately, the presence of these bugs does not mean your rice is unsafe to eat. However, it does mean that you need to take steps to keep them away.
My family and I have experienced rice weevils first hand. They are much smaller than you might think to the naked eye and could easily be dismissed as specks of dirt or debris. My wife has always rinsed rice a few times before cooking it and on this one occasion she was greeted with some uninvited dinner guests.
As she started to rinse the rice, she noticed multiple tiny brown specks and realized “We Had Rice Weevils!” She immediately took the rest of our rice from the cabinet and put it in the freezer to kill in eggs & pests.
Then, she continued rinsing, stirring and discarding the water about 20 times until she got rid of most of the floating weevils. Next she cooked the rice as normal and it turned out great, no change in taste and it was delicious. You would never even know the difference.
I’m sure there was still a few rice weevils left that got cooked and added to our protein for the night, but we are fine with that. It makes for a good story our kids can tell their friends about the time we had bugs for dinner.
Some people might not rinse it at all & cook as normal knowing that the weevils and their eggs are harmless to humans. I know in an SHTF situation, we will not be wasting water to rinse weevils from our rice & the added protein is a benefit.
Although our bulk storage is in airtight containers, my wife liked to keep the rice we use frequently in a container with pop up lid for easy pouring. It was not air tight, the convenience was not worth it and we learned a valuable lesson.
Here’s how to kill rice weevils:
● Check the rice for bugs. It’s important to remove pests before storing rice long-term because if you aren’t aware and put in in storage they will continue to multiply.
● One way to kill rice bugs is to freeze the rice for several days. This will kill the bugs and their eggs, ensuring that they don’t return.
● Alternatively, you can heat the rice in the oven at 140°F for 30 minutes, killing the bugs and their eggs. It’s important to inspect your rice for signs of bugs before storing. After you’ve put in the effort to prepare your rice supply, the last thing you want is infestations of pesky insects.
Rinse Rice Weevils Away:
Simply rinse, stir, drain water & repeat until you can no longer see any floating on the top of the water. Then cook as normal. Use one of the steps above to kill any weevils or eggs remaining in your uncooked rice storage.
Check out our video on rinsing the rice weevils away:
Oxygen
Oxygen can also affect the shelf life of rice. When exposed to oxygen, rice can oxidize, resulting in rancidity and spoilage. Therefore, it’s crucial to store rice long term in airtight containers and use oxygen absorbers to remove any remaining oxygen.
Moisture
Moisture is one of the most critical factors to consider when storing rice long-term. Rice should be stored in a dry environment to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can cause spoilage. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the storage containers are airtight and moisture-proof.
What You’ll Need to Store Rice Long Term
Storage Containers
To store rice long term, you’ll need a storage container. Choose airtight, moisture-proof containers large enough to hold the amount of rice you want to store. Here are some examples:
Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are airtight, and if used with oxygen absorbers you can extend the shelf life of the rice significantly. These bags are an effective way to store rice long term to prevent bugs. However, you must seal them properly. You can vacuum seal mylar bags and add oxygen absorbers to remove all the air from the bag, preventing oxidation and spoilage.
Food-Grade Buckets
One of the most popular alternatives to Mylar bags for long-term rice storage is food-grade buckets. Food-grade buckets are made from high-density polyethylene and are designed specifically for food storage. They come with airtight lids that help to keep the rice fresh for a long time. These 5-gallon buckets are inexpensive and easy to find at hardware stores and online retailers. They come in various sizes, so you can choose the one that suits your storage needs. 5-gallon buckets are most common and are a staple for most prepper’s. In addition to food stores, these can be used to store all kinds of items.
Glass Jars
Glass jars are an excellent option for storing rice in small quantities. They are airtight and do not allow air or moisture to enter the jar. However, they are not the best option for storing large quantities of rice.
Oxygen Absorbers
Oxygen absorbers are small packets that contain iron powder. When placed in an airtight container with rice, they absorb the oxygen inside the container, creating an oxygen-free environment. This prevents oxidation and ensures that the rice stays fresh for a longer time.
Here’s a guide to how many oxygen absorbers you should use.
Container Volume
Recommended Amount ofOxygen Absorbers
½ gallon
200cc – 500cc
1 gallon
300cc – 600cc
1.5 gallon
1000cc
2 gallons
1000cc – 2000cc
5-6 gallons
2000cc
Chart showing amount of oxygen absorbers needed per gallon.
Labeling your rice storage containers with the type of rice and the expiration date is important. This way you not only stay organized, but ensure that all stored items remain fresh and edible for as long as possible.
How to Store Rice Long Term Using Mylar Bags
1. Gather your supplies: rice, Mylar bags, oxygen absorbers, measuring cups, iron, and a container to hold the rice bags.
2. Measure out the rice and add the recommended amount of oxygen absorbers.
3. Fill the Mylar bags with rice. Leave some space at the top for sealing and oxygen absorbers.
4. Add oxygen absorbers to the bag. Place the oxygen absorbers on top of the rice before sealing.
5. Use an iron set to medium-high heat to seal the top of the Mylar bag, leaving a 2-inch gap for the oxygen absorbers.
6. Drop the oxygen absorbers into the gap and immediately seal it closed with an iron or hair straightener.
7. Write the date and contents on the outside of the bag and place it in a container in a cool, dry place.
Tips on How to Store Rice Long Term Without Mylar Bags
If you’re looking for other ways to store rice long term, but don’t have access to Mylar bags, here’s what you need to know:
● Use food-grade containers like mason jars, plastic buckets with lids, and sealable bags are all good options. Make sure they’re clean and dry before use.
● Add oxygen absorbers. These small packets are available online or in stores. These will help remove any remaining oxygen from the container. Add one or two per container, depending on its size. When it comes to oxygen absorbers, err on the side of abundance — you can never use too many.
● Store your rice in a cool, dry place. Aim for temperatures between 40-70°F with low humidity. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Tips On How To Store Rice Long Term To Prevent Bugs
● Clean and inspect rice before storage. Make sure to choose high-quality rice that’s clean, dry, and free of insects or eggs.
● Use airtight containers to prevent bugs from entering.
● Add bay leaves, garlic, or pepper to repel insects. Replace them every few months to maintain their effectiveness.
● Store rice in cool, dry, and dark places to discourage insect growth.
● Use rice within its shelf life to avoid infestations.
● Rotate your rice supply. Use the oldest rice first and replace it with fresh rice as needed.
FAQs About Storing Rice Long Term
Why use rice for food supply?
Rice is an excellent choice for emergency food storage because it is affordable, easy to store, and has a long shelf life. It is also a great source of energy, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, making it a versatile and healthy option.
What is the best storage container to store rice long term?
Airtight containers are the best choice. These include food-grade buckets, mylar bags, and glass jars.
How much rice should I store?
It’s recommended to store 300 lbs of grains per person for a one-year supply. Depending on personal preference and dietary needs, you can store 25 to 60 lbs per person.
How long can you store rice in a Mylar bag?
You can store rice long term in a Mylar bag for up to 25 years if stored in optimal conditions.
How often should I rotate my rice storage?
Rotating your rice storage every 1-2 years is recommended to ensure freshness.
Do you need oxygen absorbers for rice storage?
Yes, oxygen absorbers are recommended for rice storage. Rice contains natural oils that can become rancid over time, and oxygen can accelerate this process. Oxygen absorbers are necessary for rice storage because they help remove oxygen from the storage container, which reduces the growth of bacteria and prevents insects from breeding, thereby extending the shelf-life of the rice.
How do I know if my rice has gone bad?
To determine if rice has gone bad, look for signs of discoloration, unusual odors, or insect activity. Additionally, you can perform a simple taste and smell test before consuming.
Conclusion
Following the rice storage tips above ensures that your rice stays safe and edible long-term. You need to plan and execute properly to keep your rice supply safe and edible. A proper storage plan for rice is vital for any prepper’s pantry, and knowing how to store rice long term can be a game-changer in emergencies.
Pro tips:
After our rice weevil infestation, my wife started adding a few bay leaves to our long term storage preps because we don’t know if the rice we bought already contained weevils or eggs. We assume we got a bad bag. Just looking at the rice before rinsing it you couldn’t see any signs of weevils and once we rinsed it as you can see in the video, they are clearly evident.
Keep a dozen or so mason jars with rice stored away. These are great for barter should SHTF and you need to make a trade. They’re also handy for the one-off situation where you need some rice but don’t want to break into a larger, long-term storage container.
Have you ever experienced rice weevils? Let us know in the comments below.
