Food storage gifts that make a difference

If you're looking for food storage gift ideas for Christmas or for birthdays, check out Leslie's article here.

Emergency Sanitation and Hygiene

Go to National Terror Response Center for important information about preventing the spread of disease after a disaster strikes, including how to deal with human waste when sewer mains are damaged or broken. EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THIS. Ideas are given for making temporary toilet provisions and waste disposal.

Disaster preparedness

Don’t be fooled by FEMA administrative difficulties during recent disasters…FEMA’s Are You Ready? book is an outstanding resource for individuals and families to prepare for disasters. Disaster preparedness information can be complicated to gather and remember. This concise information is laid out in easy- to- read bullets with a simple self-test at the end of each section. Order a free copy at www.fema.gov/areyouready or call 1-800-480-2520. Don’t forget to read the “After A Disaster” section at the back of the book…ahead of time.

FEMA also offers a children’s coloring book with simple information for teaching children about disasters. This is a great resource to help children remember what to do in case of a disaster.

Rice over 30 years

Even though stored in a container without oxygen, rice will develop a slightly yellow color and rancid smell. These will disappear when the rice is cooked. If rice has more that a slight rancid smell and a darker color, it should be discarded.

Shelf life of spices

When food storage becomes complicated, people become discouraged and give up. Keeping track of the age of spices is a complication!! Spices keep their flavor for many years. If the flavor of a spice seems to be fading, add a little more to recipes until it is used up.

Buying bouillon

When storing bouillon for food storage, it doesn’t have to be purchased in a #10 can. Store your favorite brand from the grocery store.

Some bouillon in #10 cans may have a less intense flavor, requiring more in a recipe. Be sure to ask for a taste before buying in bulk.

What if you have allergies?

You'll find some ideas for food storage here.