How We Preserve Rice & Beans for Catastrophic Preparedness

Using 5-Gallon Mylar Bags, Oxygen Absorbers & Vacuum Sealing for Long-Term Storage

In times of uncertainty, one of the most powerful things you can do is take control of your food security. On our homestead, that means growing our own produce, raising our own meat—but also having a well-stocked pantry of calorie-dense staples that can last for decades.

Our two go-to staples?
Rice and beans.
Here’s exactly how we preserve them for long-term storage—and why they matter.

🍚 Why Rice & Beans?

We didn’t choose rice and beans just because they’re affordable (though that’s a bonus). These two foods are nutritional cornerstones for real long-term preparedness:

• Beans = Protein + Fiber
  Essential for energy, digestion, and muscle repair when fresh meat may not be on hand.

• Rice = Clean Calories + Carbs
  High in calories and incredibly shelf-stable. Perfect for pairing with wild game or home-canned meat.

Together, they create a complete protein, which is vital for anyone trying to sustain energy and strength during a crisis.

And while we still value our vegetable garden, we know one freeze, drought, or pest wave can wipe out a season’s harvest. That’s why we also focus on hunting, fishing, and building deep pantry reserves that don’t rely on fragile growing systems.

🛡️ Our Method for Long-Term Preservation

We store rice and beans to last 20–30+ years, safely and affordably, using this method:

🪣 1. Use 5-Gallon Mylar Bags

These block light, moisture, and oxygen when sealed properly.

• Line a 5-gallon food-grade bucket with a Mylar bag.

• Fill with dry, clean rice or beans (do not use any that are cracked, dusty, or improperly dried).

🧼 2. Add Oxygen Absorbers

For every 5-gallon bag, we add:

• 2,000–2,500cc worth of oxygen absorbers

• This removes residual oxygen that could cause spoilage, mold, or insect activity.

🔒 3. Seal with a Heat Sealer or Iron

Fold the top of the bag and use a heat sealer or clothing iron on high to close the Mylar completely. Press until airtight.

🪶 4. Vacuum Seal Smaller Bags for Rotation

We also vacuum seal 1-2 lb portions in smaller bags for:

• Short-term use

• Bug-out bags

• Bartering or quick access

🪟 5. Label Everything Clearly

Include:

• Type of food

• Date of sealing

• Expected lifespan (we aim for 20–30 years under ideal conditions)

🕰️ Shelf Life Breakdown

When stored in cool, dark, dry conditions, here’s how long you can expect your food to last:

Food ItemStorage MethodShelf LifeWhite RiceMylar + O2 Absorbers25–30 yearsBrown RiceMylar + O2 Absorbers5–10 years (due to natural oils)Dry BeansMylar + O2 Absorbers25–30 years

Tip: If you store brown rice, rotate it annually and keep it cool to slow down spoilage.

🔥 The Big Picture: Calories, Protein & Fat

In a true grid-down situation, survival isn’t just about having food—it’s about having the right food:

• You need calories to keep moving.

• You need protein to stay strong and repair tissue.

• You need fat to support hormones, brain function, and energy.

That’s why we also prioritize:

• Hunting and fishing

• Canning homegrown meat

• Storing lard, tallow, and coconut oil

Rice and beans are the base. Protein and fat are the fuel.

🌱 Final Thoughts

Prepping doesn’t have to mean panic—it can mean peace. When you’ve taken the time to fill your shelves with reliable staples like rice and beans, you’re not just preparing for disaster—you’re preserving freedom.

You’re saying, “We’ll be okay—no matter what comes.”