3 Month Food Storage Calculator

3-Month Food Storage Calculator

Here’s a comprehensive 3-month food storage plan, focused on essential categories, quantities, and guidelines to ensure a balanced, versatile, and shelf-stable supply. I’ll break it down into the following categories: grains, proteins, dairy, fruits/vegetables, oils/fats, and miscellaneous items. Quantities are approximate and based on a family of four. Adjust quantities based on dietary needs, preferences, and family size.

3-Month Food Storage Plan for a Family of Four

Category	Item	Quantity Needed (3 Months)	Storage Tips
Grains	Rice	50 lbs	Store in airtight containers or mylar bags.
	Pasta	20 lbs	Keep in original packaging or airtight bins.
	Oats	15 lbs	Airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags.
	Flour (all-purpose/whole)	25 lbs	Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
	Quinoa, couscous, or barley	10 lbs	Airtight containers.
Proteins	Canned beans (assorted types)	36 cans	Store in a cool, dark area. Rotate frequently.
	Canned meat (chicken, tuna)	24 cans	Check expiration dates regularly.
	Dried lentils/beans	20 lbs	Store in mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
	Peanut butter or nut butter	6 jars	Shelf-stable jars are ideal for storage.
	Canned chili or stew	12 cans	Rotate to ensure freshness.
Dairy	Powdered milk	6 lbs	Keep in a dry, cool place.
	Shelf-stable milk (tetra-pak)	24 quarts	Use as needed; replace as expiry nears.
	Cheese powder	2 lbs	Airtight containers for longevity.
	Canned or freeze-dried cheese	12 cans	Rotate regularly.
Fruits & Vegetables	Canned vegetables	36 cans	Dark storage area to prevent vitamin loss.
	Canned fruit	24 cans	Opt for varieties with natural juice.
	Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, etc.)	6 lbs	Airtight containers.
	Freeze-dried vegetables	5 lbs	For added variety and nutrition.
	Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes	24 cans	Versatile for multiple dishes.
Oils & Fats	Cooking oil (olive, vegetable)	2 gallons	Store in a cool, dark place.
	Shortening or lard	1 lb	Use airtight containers, preferably glass.
	Coconut oil	1 lb	Shelf-stable and versatile.
Miscellaneous	Salt	2 lbs	Essential for seasoning and preservation.
	Sugar	10 lbs	Airtight containers to avoid clumping.
	Honey	3 lbs	Honey has an indefinite shelf life.
	Baking powder and baking soda	1 lb each	Store in original packaging or airtight jars.
	Spices & herbs (variety)	As desired	Keep in a cool, dry place.
	Tea/Coffee	3-month supply	Store in airtight containers.
	Multivitamins	3-month supply	To supplement any missing nutrients.
	Water	90 gallons (1 gal/person/day)	Rotate every 6 months.

Storage Tips & Best Practices

1. Airtight Containers: Use mylar bags with oxygen absorbers for grains, beans, and other dry goods to extend shelf life.
2. Cool, Dark Storage: Store foods in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent spoilage.
3. Rotate Regularly: Check expiration dates every 3–6 months and use or replace items accordingly.
4. Include Variety: This plan includes basic foods, but you can add spices, condiments, and baking supplies to increase variety.