Frederic Melton
When preparing for survival situations, it is important to consider foods that are practical, nutritious, easy to prepare, and versatile. While cheese may not be the first food that comes to mind, it can actually be a valuable part of a survival food strategy. Cheese is a good source of fat, protein, calcium, minerals, omega-3, and proteins, making it a nutrient-dense option. In addition, certain types of cheese, such as hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss, can have a long shelf life, even without refrigeration if they are wax-sealed.
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What You'll Learn
Waxed cheese can last up to 25 years
Cheese is a great source of fat and protein, which are nutrients that tend to have a short shelf life. An unbroken waxed cheese wheel can last for 25 years or more if kept under the right conditions. The right temperature and humidity can be achieved in a cellar or basement, so year-round refrigeration is not necessary. However, once the cheese wheel is cut into, the remaining cheese will only last a few weeks in the refrigerator. To extend the shelf life, the remaining cheese can be re-waxed.
Waxed cheese is always ready to eat and requires no prep or special tools. It is keto-friendly and can be bought or made at home. However, cheese meant for refrigeration should not be waxed and stored at room temperature as it can cause foodborne illness.
Cheese is a good survival food as it has a long shelf life and can be easily stored. It can be used as a flavouring in dishes such as pasta or rice. It is also vegetarian-friendly and can be paired with wine and crackers.
Other good survival foods include canned or freeze-dried products, which can be stored for decades. Examples include canned meat and fish, freeze-dried eggs and bacon, and Wolf Brand Chili. Survival foods should ideally be diverse, nutritious, easy to prepare, and versatile.
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Freeze-dried cheese is perfect for everyday cooking
One of the main benefits of freeze-dried cheese is its long shelf life. When stored in a cool and dry place, unopened freeze-dried cheese can last up to 30 years. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to stock up on non-perishable food items. Additionally, freeze-dried cheese is a good source of fat and protein, providing essential nutrients that can be challenging to obtain in survival situations.
Freeze-dried cheese is also very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be rehydrated and used in macaroni and cheese, pizzas, quesadillas, tacos, casseroles, and more. It can also be sprinkled on top of dishes like scrambled eggs, chili, or potatoes to add a cheesy flavor. The convenience of having pre-shredded cheese that is ready to use without the risk of spoilage makes it a valuable addition to any pantry.
When it comes to survival food, it is important to consider the ease of preparation and versatility of ingredients. Freeze-dried cheese ticks both these boxes, as it can be easily rehydrated with room temperature or warm water and used in a variety of recipes. This makes it a practical option for those who may have limited access to resources or are looking for quick and nutritious meal options.
In conclusion, freeze-dried cheese is indeed perfect for everyday cooking, and its long shelf life, nutritional value, and versatility make it an ideal candidate for survival food as well. Whether you're stocking up for emergency situations or simply looking for a convenient and tasty ingredient, freeze-dried cheese is a great option to consider.
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Canned cheese is a good option for preppers
Canned cheese is a great option for preppers. It is a staple food that can be used to make comfort dishes like mac and cheese, grilled cheese, casseroles, and pizzas. It is also good on crackers, tacos, or pilot bread.
Canned cheese has a long shelf life, and it does not need to be refrigerated, making it ideal for emergency situations. For example, Bega canned cheese costs around $5 per 12 oz can and has a mild cheddar taste. Similarly, Cougar Gold sells large cans of refrigerated canned cheese for $25.
Freeze-dried cheese is another option for preppers. It does not require refrigeration and can be rehydrated and melted like regular cheese. Freeze-dried cheese is lightweight and ideal for camping and backpacking. Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese are popular options.
Saratoga Farms is a well-known brand among preppers for its freeze-dried cheese options. Their products come in #10 cans with a 300 cc oxygen absorber, giving them a 30-year shelf life. Each container has 99 servings, and it costs around $40 per can.
In addition to canned and freeze-dried cheese, preppers can also consider waxed cheese wheels, which can last for over 25 years if kept under the right conditions. However, once the wax seal is broken, the cheese must be vacuum-sealed and refrigerated, which can be challenging in emergency situations.
When choosing cheese for prepping, it is important to consider your unique needs and the potential conditions in which you may need to use your supplies. For example, if you are preparing for a long-term emergency, you may prioritize shelf-stable products that do not require refrigeration. On the other hand, if you are an outdoor enthusiast, lightweight and portable options like freeze-dried cheese may be more suitable.
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Cheese powder has a 10-year shelf life
Cheese is a great source of fat and protein, but it doesn't have a long shelf life. This is where cheese powder comes in. When made with the right blend of ingredients and packaged correctly, cheese powder can have a shelf life of 10 to 15 years.
Some cheese powders are packaged in Mylar pouches with an oxygen absorber and a nitrogen flush, allowing them to last for over a decade. This long shelf life makes cheese powder an excellent option for survival food. It can be used to add flavour to soups, casseroles, cheese sauces, dips, and salad dressings. You can even make homemade macaroni and cheese or sprinkle it on popcorn.
However, not all cheese powders are created equal. Some lose nutrients and taste through the drying process, so it's important to choose a brand that prioritises quality and preservation techniques. For example, the brand Augason Farms offers cheese powder with a 10-year shelf life, but they use yellow dyes, which may be a downside for some consumers.
If you're looking for a shorter-term option, Hoosier Hill Farm offers a one-pound resealable container of cheese powder that will stay fresh in your pantry for about a year. This option is more affordable and can be easily incorporated into various dishes.
Overall, cheese powder is a versatile and tasty option for survival food, especially if you opt for a high-quality brand with a long shelf life.
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Hard cheeses tend to last longer
When it comes to survival food, cheese is a great option to consider. It is a good source of fat and protein, and certain types of cheese can last a long time, making them ideal for emergency situations.
Hard cheeses, in particular, tend to have a longer shelf life compared to softer varieties. This is because hard cheeses have a lower moisture content, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and mould. Lower moisture content also means that hard cheeses can be stored for longer periods without refrigeration, making them a convenient option for survival scenarios where access to refrigeration may be limited or unreliable.
One popular choice for survivalists is waxed cheese. An unbroken waxed cheese wheel can last for over 25 years if stored under the right conditions. Waxing cheese helps to seal in moisture and protect it from contaminants, keeping it edible for extended periods. However, once the wax seal is broken, the cheese will only last a few weeks before spoiling, so proper storage and portioning are crucial.
In addition to waxed cheese wheels, there are other types of hard cheeses that are well-suited for survival situations. Sharp and extra sharp cheddar, for example, can survive pretty well. Canned cheese is another option that doesn't require refrigeration and has a long shelf life. Parmesan cheese, in particular, is a good choice as it can be easily stored and has a strong flavour that can enhance dishes.
While hard cheeses offer a longer shelf life, it is important to note that they may come with a higher price tag. However, their longevity and nutritional value make them a worthwhile investment for those preparing for emergency situations or looking to build a survival food stockpile.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, cheese is a good survival food as it is a good source of calcium, minerals, fats, omega 3, and proteins. An unbroken waxed cheese wheel can last for over 25 years if kept under the right conditions.
Hard cheeses tend to last longer than soft cheeses. Some good options include Babybel, sharp and extra sharp cheddar, swiss, and parmesan.
Cheese can be waxed to make it last longer. Alternatively, you can make your own cheese at home, which tends to have a longer shelf life than store-bought cheese.
