Having the right protein sources on hand can make all the difference in an emergency situation — especially when meat is unavailable. Most people understand that protein helps build muscle.Did you know it also boosts alertness, improves productivity, and helps your body heal after an injury? When stockpiling your food supply, be sure to add in these survival protein sources.
1. Canned Fish
Canned tuna and sardines have a shelf life of up to five years after the best by date if stored properly. First, check cans for any signs of damage. Denting, swelling, or rusting, are signs the fish may be contaminated. Store cans in a dark, dry place at no more than 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Beans
Beans have a lot of protein. They also have lots of iron, fiber, calcium, and vitamins. Canned beans can last up to five years after the best-by date when undamaged and stored in a cool, dry pantry.
Dried beans last a long time — more or less forever, as long as they are kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. While they are the most shelf-stable option, be sure they pass a mold, bug, and smell test before eating.
Another option is to pressure can your dried beans. They’re less expensive than grocery store canned beans. You can make them in large batches and then keep them in storage for meals. Lima beans, navy beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas can all be pressure canned.
3. Oatmeal
There are about 6g of protein in just one cup of oats. Rolled oats can last up to two years when stored properly. Leave oats unopened in original packaging or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Adding an oxygen absorber (small packets of iron) to the container can maximize the shelf life. Top your oatmeal with freeze-dried strawberries or blueberries for a well-rounded breakfast with the vitamins and minerals you need.
4. Eggs
Eggs are a good source of protein (as well as B12 and Vitamin D), but fresh eggs don’t last more than a few weeks. Fortunately, 4Patriots Deluxe Scrambled Egg Mix is designed to last up to 10 years.* They taste just as good as farm-fresh eggs and provide the nutrients you need.
5. Peanut Butter
The right peanut butter can last up to two years unopened because of its high moisture and fat content. Natural peanut butter has a shorter shelf life. Powdered peanut butter can last 10 to 12 months unopened, sometimes longer. Spread peanut butter on pancakes, add it to oatmeal, mix it into a protein shake, or eat it with fruit.
6. Meat
Red meat, pork, and poultry are survival protein sources you want to have on hand. Emergency canned meat products can last approximately two to five years past the expiration date if undamaged. Keep in mind the nutritional value decreases over time, though. Vienna sausage, chicken, corned beef, ham, and Keystone ground beef are some of the best survival meats. 4Patriots Freeze Dried Beef is another great choice. It is packed with protein and designed to last up to 30 years.* If you’re a vegetarian, try plant-based survival food.
7. Raw Nuts
Nuts have tons of protein but are tricky to keep fresh. With proper food storage, they can be an excellent source of protein in your short-term stockpile. Almonds, cashews, and peanuts are the best bet for a longer shelf life. They turn rancid quickly in warm environments, so be sure to seal them tightly and store them in a cool, dry place. In fact, they can last up to two years past the best by date when frozen.
Each type of nut should be stored separately and frozen immediately. Whole nuts will last longer than chopped. Shelled nuts last longer than those with the shell on if the package is unopened. You can tell that nuts have gone bad if they smell like paint.
8. Powders & Bars
It’s important to have a simple, ready-to-eat option on hand. The best and easiest options are meal-replacement and protein bars. Protein powders also provide a quick way to get your daily protein. An unflavored survival protein powder can be mixed into almost anything from oatmeal to shakes to broth.
When your body needs it most, stay strong and healthy by filling your stockpile with 4Patriots’ Meat & Protein Deluxe Survival Food Kits. With real beef, authentic chicken, and three different kinds of beans, it’ll be the perfect protein boost for your stockpile. Order online today, and grab a kit for everyone in your household!
*4Patriots Freeze-Dried Beef is designed to last 30 years on the shelf and 4Patriots Deluxe Scrambled Egg Mix is designed to last 10 years on the shelf. Storage conditions impact the shelf life of your food. For best results, always protect your food from heat, air and moisture. Avoid prolonged exposure to temps above 75 °F. Keep food sealed until ready to eat. Shelf life will vary based on storage conditions.
