Oils and Fats
Oils, both in liquid and solid form, are necessary for the stockpile. Why? You can’t cook anything without some fat or oil. Plus, oils can be used for more than cooking. Sometimes, you might need oil for your hair or skin, too.
When you buy oils, look for the word “virgin.” It means that the oil has only been single pressed and contains the highest nutritional value. Cooking oil might not last as long as some other items you stockpile, but if it does become rancid, you can use it for lighter fluid or fuel, lubricants, and much more.
Here are the top oils and fats you want to hoard:
• Butter – Freeze butter or buy it in a can. Butter powder is also available and has a longer shelf life.
• Coconut oil – You can use coconut oil for a number of things, including a shortening substitute. It doesn’t go rancid very fast (lasting up to two years), and it can be a fast form of energy.
• Lard – A great cooking fat that is highly versatile.
• Ghee – A melted and simmered butter that is mainly milk solids and less liquid. It has a long shelf life and is energy dense.
• Olive oil – Use this wonderful oil on salads, in cooking, and for other things. The only downside to keeping olive oil is that it can go rancid rather quickly., so change your olive oil out every 2 years or so.
• Organic shortening – Organic varieties are far healthier than other forms of shortening. Avoid the stuff with hydrogenated oils and opt for organic. It will last indefinitely and can be used for a number of applications.
• Corn oil – Another option for oils. It does deteriorate quickly once opened, so try to keep your stocked corn oil stored. Buy organic only.
• Avocado oil – Like coconut oil, avocado oil can be used for a variety of things from cooking to skincare. It lasts slightly longer than olive oil, as well.
