A Mormon Guide to Storing Food for Times of Crisis

The Mormon Church, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, advises members to store a substantial amount of food and water at home to rely on in an emergency or crisis situation. This is intended to reduce fear and suffering during stressful situations, like natural disasters, war or even something relatively simple and common like a job loss. It allows Latter Day Saints to trust more completely in God, knowing their basic needs for food and water will be met during tough times.

The Church encourages members to build up a one year supply of food and water but some Mormon organizations like Provident Living suggest that a three month supply is sufficient. The Church recommends that families build up their food supply gradually over time and says families should not avoid paying other bills in order to gather a food supply.

Containers for Storing Food

Use glass or metal storage containers for food. Some people use heavy plastic containers but there are concerns about harmful chemicals in plastic containers leaching into the food. Use only containers with tight-fitting lids and make sure they seal well.

Conditions for Storing Food

Store food in a cool, dry area. Basements often work well for food storage, as long as there is no mustiness or moldiness in the area. Root cellars also work well. Of course, you can store food in a pantry off the kitchen, in a spare bedroom or anywhere else with a moderate temperature and low humidity. If temperatures rise above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, food may need to be replaced.

Store food on shelves or on wooden pallets to increase the ventilation around containers. Food stays fresh longer this way. Don't simply rest large containers of food and water on concrete basement floors.

Rotation of Food Products

For long-term storage, you'll need to choose non-perishable, shelf-stable foods, of course. If expiration dates are not easy to see, use a marker to print the date clearly on all product labels. Store items that expire first at the front of shelves and those that last longer at the back. As items come close to reaching their expiration dates, use them yourself or donate them to a local food pantry and buy new items to replace them.

Storing Water

While food can be stored in metal containers, it's recommended that water be kept in glass. Metal can corrode and the taste of the water will be affected. Plastic jugs are not recommended for storing water for the same reason plastic is not recommended for storing food; chemicals in the plastic can contaminate the food or water. Keep glass jugs of water in a dimly-lit area to preserve the freshness of the water as long as possible.

Sources:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=66b227cd3f37b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD. Home Storage.

Provident Living. http://providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,7533-1-4064-1,00.html. Storage Conditions.