Beginner's Guide to Stocking a Working Prepper Pantry

[@itsnotthesamething]

Heads up! All those empty canning jars behind you can be filled with water, till you're ready to use them for canning. If for some reason you lose water, that is extra for drinking or cleaning. Just a prepper tip.

[@MelLockcuff]

That's a really great tip! Thank you!

[@vivianp5962]

Good one ! 👍

[@dianashelton1371]

itsnotthesamething Love that idea. Do you reuse the lids? Or use 2nd time around lids for the water?

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

You can also fill them with water and can them when you have an open spot in the canner. Voila! Sterile water for medical purposes. Drinkable, but will be flat. Aerate it by pouring from one container into another container for a couple of minutes and it will taste better!

[@sdkemm]

Thank you for that tip. Excellent idea

[@redeemedbygrace9236]

My husband asked his DR. to write a prescription for ONE YEAR of thyroid med. Amazingly, the good Dr.did it. We took the RX to Walmart & without insurance, it cost only $4.00. FOR A YEARS WORTH!!

[@MelLockcuff]

That's amazing!

[@cherylT321]

Redeemed by Grace. Wow, that’s great. I just asked my doctor for additional thyroid meds yesterday. I’m not sure yet how much l’m getting because it’s pending. I’m hoping that she at least gave me a three month supply!

[@alexismaribel8440]

Thats what o need ,my thyroid pills for a year.

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

I did the same.

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

Mine does 3 months at a time, but be sure to store dark, cool & dry, since it's heat, sun 🌞, & moisture sensitive.

[@ghostiiiekun6636]

Her : “ a little bit of space” Me:”that looks huge”

[@dampsomsatan]

imagine if everyone did this. Then noone would be punching eachother over toiletpaper right now Good job

[@MelLockcuff]

It would be ideal if everyone could, but I know it's really difficult for some. Sad that it's come to this... over toilet paper no less.

[@nicolelistsit6717]

My grandparents grew up using out houses when they were children. They would use Sears catalog pages to wipe or corn cobs old pieces of fabric etc.. People might have to prepare to return to old ways of living. You cannot eat toilet paper so don't fret if stores run out. It might sound gross... but you can always just wash yourself off. If God forbid something happened to the production of toilet paper. But I think we're okay just stock up when you can. Don't put yourself in debt like so many others using their credit cards. Just do what you can. 🙂

[@ashleyswshr]

I guess if they run out of food they’re going to be eating the toilet paper. I feel bad for them though because they were not prepared and don’t even know what to buy. I suppose having enough TP gives them comfort. I got mine before the rush and I had no problem.

[@MelLockcuff]

@@nicolelistsit6717 yes, my mom was telling me all about the sears roebuck catalog in the outhouse when she was growing up. I do have a pretty good stockpile of magazines, so I guess we could get by if we needed to. lol

[@SherryEllesson]

@@MelLockcuff Sears catalogs back then were not made of the kind of slick, thick paper used in magazines now. They were thin newsprint and if scrunched and then flattened, were a decent substitute. It was a whole different world.

[@michelleapple1214]

Thank you for taking the time to film this video, I hope you wake people up. You have people who need to prep not just for times like this. You may lose your job, sick family members, Hurricanes. There's a lot of emergencies that are starting to come more and more now a days. So I pray people wake up and protect their families not just for this time but forever.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! Yes, I agree. We all need to be prepared for hard times.

[@fsgromad]

I want to be helpful and friendly at giving some advice. I have a dietetic (advanced nutrition) degree and a diabetic husband that we also control through diet. Diabetics can have grains just low to moderate glycemic (means to release sugars slowly over time). The grains I have my husband/family eat are basmati and black rice mix, oats, and ancient grains. I soak and parboil the grains to help remove starch. These are cheap and easy to stock up on.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much. This is very good to know.

[@bobmchenry2315]

My diabetic husband felt more satiated when ate oatmeal, beans. Counting carbs is tough.

[@fsgromad]

@@bobmchenry2315 I never had my husband count his carbs, I felt that would not work for him. I changed his diet and helped him to lose weight 100lbs so far. His A1cs went from13 to 5.6 in one year. He is cured, but I still catch him cheating sometimes.

[@compticny888]

For those who do not cook from scratch you can have some of the following on hand; rice (already mentioned) and rice noodles, creamed soup, mac & cheese, boxed rice and/or pasta. "Dilute" the mac & cheese with your own pasta allows you to stretch the meal and seasoned. The rice and rice noodles we add to soups again to stretch it. Creamed soups can be added to your rice for flavoring.

[@MelLockcuff]

Awesome tips, Jamie. Thank you so much!

[@deemueller6470]

Quick and easiest recipe for a filling dinner- a can of chicken and instant rice. Add the liquid to the boiling rice water, add the meat but the end. You can add beans and/or soups to make bigger meals!

[@ruthm4749]

Ive started to learn how to dry can my dry goods, rice, beans, flour, pasta etc. It heats and kills any insects and makes it storable for years.

[@dagneytaggart7707]

Turned my hall coat closet into pantry storage.

[@MelLockcuff]

Such a great idea, Karen!

[@cathyann6835]

Yes, that is a great idea. I was just thinking I needed more space and we have a coat closet that we store games we never play, coats we never wear, my vacuum and carpet shampooer. I think I just found a spot! Thanks so much. I can move my vacuum and shampooer and get rid of the rest. ❤

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

Under beds in sealed totes & hidden in all the out of sight nooks n crannies. Just write down on paper where you put everything, lol.

[@kokolatte825]

@@MelLockcuff I like that you made this video right before the pandemic hit. In the beginning when you were naming reasons to start a pantry and you were pondering 🤔🤣

[@cindys6845]

Alot of my friends think I am crazy for stocking up... BUT they will be the ones crying when they are not prepared!

[@MelLockcuff]

I wish everyone would slowly and gradually stock over time, so they could be prepared. Even if just a little bit. It definitely makes a difference.

[@pralinechocolates1]

We laid down the final side of concrete in our basement yesterday. Last week we (are with two) received 4 cans of gourmet freeze dried food in massive cans that I’m really happy about. I’m a little late getting started but that’s alright we have a plan in place.

[@MelLockcuff]

Better late than never, right? :) Sounds like you're off to a great start!

[@tinageer3759]

Wish more people would do this as well. I have recently started "dry canning" all my products that can get "buggy" such as pasta, rice, crackers, oatmeal, barley, pancake mixes, ect.

[@MelLockcuff]

I do too. I'm wanting to learn how to dry can; it's a concept I've been introduced to by making this video, so it's on my list of things to learn.

[@leal536]

Great video. I have always said - stock what you eat and eat what you stock. So, having information out there that says the same thing is of benefit to those just starting out with getting prepared. I just hope and pray that it is not too late for a lot of people - especially those who are out of work right now and wondering when business will reopen.

[@11B30Inf]

Those who failed to stock up for emergencies, are the first ones to suffer.

[@preppingmama]

They're the ones who call us hoarders

[@michelleapple1214]

and they are the ones who want to fight...so sad. They rather spend their money on Starbucks, nails and hair and shopping for stupid stuff instead of taking care of their family. People have extra money they just chose to use it unwisely.

[@michelleapple1214]

@@preppingmama ..I hope this virus will wake people up now. Since so many people have no pay checks coming in. When things get back to normal (if it ) gets back to normal. Better buy extra cans when they go food shopping..including personal hygiene products and vitamins. People for get about these items.

[@rneedham667]

@@preppingmama i don't think so.some people barely make ends meet.

[@preppingmama]

@@rneedham667 You don't think so, what? I said, "Those are the folks who call us hoarders." Were you hoping to reply to someone else? I agree with Michelle above. We are all responsible for ourselves. That means you plan ahead to take care of your family the best way you can on the budget you have. It is not impossible. All kinds of people on all kinds of budgets practice preparedness. It takes planning and hard work and sacrifice, but it is doable.

[@Eurynomea]

FYI; bread flour is simply "sifted" all-purpose flour. I sift mine 3x to be as fluffy as cake & bread flour.

[@MelLockcuff]

True. Bread flour can also have a slightly higher protein level, helping with both the texture and crumb of the finished loaf.

[@KatyInNH]

@@MelLockcuff You can add vital wheat gluten to AP flour to achieve bread flour - King Arthur has it on their website

[@kimo2327]

Every grocery trip (I shop weekly) I buy replenishments for my pantry. We are in August now and my mind starts feeling like preparing for autumn, so soups, chili in the crockpot,etc. This weeks grocery trip I added several large cans of tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Next week I may add lots of canned spinach and broths. I only put things in my pantry that we like to eat and will get used and rotated. Beans, rice, pasta, pasta sauces, canned fruit and vegetables, even ramen noodles, broths, powdered milk. I think I have a good solid 2 month supply of food. I store most in my linen closet downstairs and every nook and cranny that is not being used in my kitchen cupboards lol. I feel a lot better knowing I have the extra food and am prepared. We can get some snowstorms where we live in the Rocky Mountains and have been stuck in for a few days before, not too long. The pandemic freaked me out initially and I am concerned about lockdowns this fall so prepare people, you just never know.

[@MelLockcuff]

Great tips, Kim! Thank you so much. I like the seasonal stocking and have sorta started to do that myself just a bit. I'm already thinking ahead to what we might want or need at Christmas.

[@thefirstnoob5577]

I live in a hurricane prone area. I am not rich. I am more on the poor side. I started adding the forever foods. Rice, beans, pasta, sugar, salt, honey, wheat berries, oats, dry corn and other grains. These you do not have to worry about rotating so much. Just learn how to store them the right way. Next is your long term foods. You always can sale shop and add regular pantry items just buy a few extra when they are on sale. Buy what you eat. Rotate it. The best by date is not an expiration date. Use a sharpie to mark food containers with the best by date. A gamma lid will seal the bucket but most grains have larva in it and it can hatch as long as it has oxygen. That is why preppers seal food in bags with oxygen absorbers in it.

[@MelLockcuff]

All great tips! Thank you so much. Yes, we like to freeze our flour after we buy it too, just to help with this. I am considering buying some of those bags to seal some foods in. We're just getting started, so I'm definitely taking note of all your tips.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

I live in a hurricane / ice storm area, too. Living on a limited income, I know what you mean! I do a several "forever foods", too. Over the years, I've found it's best to do a combination of storage methods. Thus, I can, dehydrate and to a lesser extent, freeze foods. The bulk of what I do is canning for long term. These are heat and eat with a minimum of prep work, water and fuel. Things that are often in limited supply when the grid goes down. If you don't already, for each thing that goes into long term storage, practice (where applicable) how to prepare it. Store the resources needed to prepare it, too. Many grains need a way to manually grind them. Pasta needs adequate water. Beans need water and a heat source to cook them. Both are nearly worthless without the means to prepare them is a disaster situation. Since I do a lot of canning, usually have extra jars on hand. I use a FoodSaver to vacuum seal many things in mason jars. Acquired a goodly amount of 1/2 gal, a few years ago. Using vacuum sealed mason jars, of all sizes, protects the contents from mice, insects and air which aids in prolonging shelf life. Dehydrating bell peppers and celery, for example, produces a compact shelf stable ingredient to go into a sauce or soup made from canned meats & veggies. Agree 110% that Best By is NOT Expiration! I had vanilla wafers, in their original packaging, on my pantry shelf. Bought for a special project & never used. A year beyond their "Best By", decided it was time to toss. Opened, tasted, and enjoyed both boxes! Frankly I was surprised.

[@ciannacoleman5125]

We don’t have an issue with food thankfully, but this entire situation has made my desire to plant a fruit/veggie/herb garden and to can/ferment all the stronger. I have a list going for a systematic gathering and stocking of useful emergency supplies to keep normal life running if this (or worse) ever happens again

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, same here. There are a few things we just can't get, but for the most part, we're ok here. But yes, I want to can ALL the things, and I'm keeping a running list, as well, so we can keep a steady stock in our pantry.

[@eileenroberts1952]

you said you had a " little bit" of space, but that is alot ot me. My pantry is just a 4 ft shelf in the garage. Thats all I got. Yours looks HUGE

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, I'm very thankful for this space. We've been in that spot before... In our old house, we had a couple of shelves above the washer and dryer and that's all we had.

[@vivianp5962]

I live in a 600 ft sq apartment. I have 1 cabinet which holds my spices everything including dry goods ( cans, rice,beans,etc.) Has to be stored in the fridge/freezer. So, i have no pantry or cabinets to store anything. My water sits in the open by my couch.

[@itsnotthesamething]

I am storing food in my utility closet, and under my bed. You can fit a ton of stuff under the bed. I live in a 600 sq ft cabin. Utilize whatever empty space you can.

[@carmenwheatley7316]

True I have my bed on risers and can slide things under the bed. I have a friend who has a large walk in pantry with shelves on all three walls that is about the size of my bathroom and walk in closet. She keeps most of her stuff in there, but also has a basement.

[@marge3863]

As a ranch wife in the BFE, I learned 24 years ago,to keep a full pantry. If I get unexpected company I can feed an army well for days.

[@Michelle-qd9gm]

We’ve got a pantry started 👍👍

[@MelLockcuff]

Awesome! Great job.

[@carolmckinney3004]

I think a lot of people forget about spices

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, they're easy to forget, but just a couple of spices can make all the difference.

[@keithconnell8460]

Got mine! Used to work at a health food store where we do bulk spices. They come in to the store in mylar bags. Long story short, the empty mylar bags became mine. Add some O2 absorbers and it's all good. Just opened a package the other day to check it out and it was as good as brand new. Package was over 5 years old. Potatoes and corn and such are great, but without spices....why bother?

[@MelLockcuff]

Keith, I agree! Spices are essential in my book.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

Good information on what works for you, especially with your special needs. Many people have those or similar situations they have to address. Sodium is a big problem here. Thus, we have to look for alternatives to the typical processed foods found at the grocery store. Canning, dehydrating and vacuum sealing are good DIY alternatives to same. For example, cooking white rice and dehydrating it yields "Instant" rice that's ready in a 2 minutes in the microwave. Storing oatmeal in bulk, means that I can use it, along with a few other ingredients and make Instant Oatmeal packets with a variety of flavors. I make 12 "servings" (equivalent to 24 packets) at a time & store in reusable 1/2 pt mason jars. No sodium in them! Nor anything else that I don't want. A FWIW.... Don't use disposable plastic milk jugs for food or water storage. It is almost impossible to remove the milk fats from the plastic inside the jug. Next, those jugs are biodegradable. Designed to quickly breakdown in landfills. Thus, they are pone to leaking rather quickly. I learned that the hard way when I stored gallons of water purchased in disposable gallon jugs from the grocery store. Within a few months they began to leak. I had floor damage when I discovered the problem. Alternatives are canning water in unused mason jars. (Can as if it were broth.) If you need the jars, use the water for canning purposes. Storing water in sanitized 2-liter soda bottles. Since these must contain/control carbonized beverages, they are stronger. AquaTainer (camping dept Walmart) has jerry cans and cubes for water storage. I keep 2 of the cubes to use when preparing for a hurricane. There are a number of larger options. Instead of storing more than a minimum of drinking water (2-3 cases of bottled here), consider the means to turn raw water (if available) into potable water. I have Sawyer water filters, chlorine dioxide tablets, and containers for SODIS (solar disinfection) along with several ways to boil water. Also keep plain Clorox bleach (rotated routinely to keep at full strength) to disinfect water from a nearby small stream. Hope these thoughts are useful.

[@Lisawhatshersname]

We live in Florida - very good point concerning the water! I have a stock of water in soda bottles for times like hurricanes (we're on well water, and when the electricity is knocked out, we won't have water). Thanks.

[@MelLockcuff]

So many good tips here. I did not know this about gallon jugs. We do keep some 5-gallon jugs for camping, and we tend to keep those filled and stored. I forgot to mention that in the video. I also had no idea you could make instant rice and oatmeal like this. So much to learn and implement. Thank you so much. You've given us several things to add to our to do list.

[@Lisawhatshersname]

Oldtimer Lee, I wonder if might share your recipe for the oatmeal? It might just change my teens' minds about oats! It would certainly be more cost effective, and hubby and I are on a low sodium diet also.

[@merryfreeman3474]

Wow that is an amazing pantry. Especially when you have budgetary constraints!

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much, Merry!

[@patriciagraham4786]

Thank you for sharing your working prepper pantry with us. I've always bought an extra can or 2 of goods for "just in case". So we're ok for a few weeks. One thing I didn't see in yours is anti diarrhea medication. I make sure i always have some on hand. It's saved me several times from trying to find someone to fill in for me on my job. I used to drive a contract box truck for the USPS, and we weren't allowed to stop while on our routes, except at our delivery destinations. Great video. I'd like to add, that several years ago I purchased long term storage items, such as dehydrated veggies in #10 cans. So i have a few of those. But, since coronavirus, all online companies that sell these items are out of stock of almost EVERYTHING! So happy I was able to get them, no problem, a few years ago. Also, this coronavirus situation is a good wake up call for those who thought we were crazy to have stocked up. Thanks again for the video.

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes! Great tip on the medication. We actually do have some of that in our medicine cabinet.

[@rayanvelasquez6713]

Charcoal capcels is good to keep on hand

[@jeaniejbutler4911]

@@rayanvelasquez6713 May I ask what they are used for? I have never heard of them before.

[@redeemedbygrace9236]

Your voice is soothing.

[@mamashanshan2772]

I’ve also been splitting prices with my kids and their families. They’re sure asking me a lot now about gardening and food shelf life, storage, canning!! I grew up on a farm, we canned a lot of veggies, fruits, meats. Also raised our own beef, pigs, sheep, turkeys , chickens, went hunting! It’s good to know survival, & money saving ways of living, it’s been a blessing.

[@MelLockcuff]

That's awesome, Shannon! And so wonderful that you all can help to support one another during this time. I grew up similarly on a farm, and my mom taught me how to can some things. I value my upbringing and all of that so, so much.

[@cathyann6835]

That's good information to know. Maybe you can set up your own website, gain followers and make a little money teaching others.

[@TheTidyhome]

Keep in mind, black beans and rice are a complete protein, meaning they have the nine essential amino acids that make up protein that is needed for almost our entire body. Meat alternatives that include all essential amino acids (amino acids your body cannot convert from other sources) are really a good idea to have. Choose brown rice instead of white and beans. Make sure to have seasonings or bouillon to flavor both of them when cooking.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

Agree that brown rice is better in terms of nutrition. Please also keep in mind that brown rice does not have a long shelf life. It will turn rancid because of the fats it contains. White rice, properly stored, has a shelf life of 30+ years. I've personally stored it for 10 years. Ate some of it as reconstituted DIY "Instant" rice for supper last night. About a year is all I can get with storing brown rice.

[@MelLockcuff]

Great tips. Thank you!

[@MelLockcuff]

@@oldtimerlee8820 thank you so much for the tips!

[@wytchyprepper3370]

Again, prep the parboiled rice. It has the 30 year shelf life and lower glycemic index than brown rice. As for the corn tortillas, we buy in bulk and break into 18 or or 24 packs and vacuum pack and store in the fridge. We're eating tortillas from last year! These will last at least a year. Brown rice will freeze for up to two years if you want to go that route, I just can't deal with the texture or taste. Been prepping and storing for over four years and have really been able to see what works and what doesn't. Great video!

[@allthingselderly]

Hi. Prepping in Boston. We all have to help one another. Prep for food shortages. Prices are going up. Be encouraged. Prep for the long term. Keep making videos.

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes! I totally agree. Thank you!

[@allthingselderly]

@@MelLockcuff Be well!

[@melanierife1378]

You are on the right track when you said you want to can your own meat. Hamburger, roasts (chunked), and chicken are great things to can. Do a raw pack for meat or you are cooking it twice and it can be tough. Raw packed meat will be pressure cooked during the 90-minute processing time for meat (it MUST BE PRESSURE CANNED).

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much for the great tips. Yes, my sister cans a lot of meat, and I believe she does it this way. I need to get her to teach me her ways. :)

[@insomniacmuffin4787]

I buy grape or other juices too, and when I am trying to save money (or calories) I water it down 50/50 and it still tastes great, and lasts longer. I find that now straight juice tastes just too strong for my taste.

[@melindaedwards4474]

We water down everthing...Waste nothing and Stretch everthing...

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, I find that it's just too sweet, so I'll do this too. Great tip!

[@robertalee2]

Insomniac Muffin .... Me too.

[@beegee1960]

Insomniac Muffin When I was growing up we had wild mustang grapes on our farm. My mother would make a lot of grape jelly and Jam. But she would also put up dozens of quart jars of concentrated grape juice. In the summer we would drink ice cold grape juice, as much as we drank tea. Although my Dad really liked his iced tea. Just add water, sugar and ice. If we ran out of Jelly during the next year, Mother would take the concentrated grape juice and make some more. The best thing was that the grapes were free. The grew wild. And there were tons of them. We also picked wild dewberries. They made great jelly. But they were not as plentiful and were harder to pick, because they usually grew along the ground.

[@cherylT321]

Insomniac Muffin. That’s what I do. I also find the grape juice too strong if I don’t water it down!

[@AdenBae]

Great video! My mother had a working pantry and rotated, I am doing the same! It’s also good to store dry goods that last years! God bless 😊

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much! My mom did too; it's just something I learned to do growing up.

[@marshallmom1962]

My church has a very strong self reliance program. Being raised in the church since a kid, its ingrained in me. I like your example! I have saved some plastic bags too, u never know..tin foil is important to have on hand. Any of those empty jars can be used to store beans in. **please be aware that water saved in milk containers is really only good for abt 6 months. Plstic breaks down into the water. Older can be used for bathing..just not consumption. Love your channel!

[@crystalmac7069]

I used to have the Snoopy snow one maker! How cute!

[@MelLockcuff]

I always wanted one as a kid, so when I got the chance as a grown adult, of course, I had to get it. lol

[@victoriamuir8988]

You are proud of your pantry...as you should be.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you, Victoria!

[@debm7417]

Thank you!!! This is one of the best KZbin presentations I have seen!!!

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much, Deb! I'm so glad it was helpful.

[@debbiegilbert1961]

I agree!

[@ruthm4749]

I like to use the spinach in my soups, like ham and potato , gives you more vitamins without the spinach taste.ive also learned how to dry can using my oven, for rice and flour to keep it for years.really easy

[@MelLockcuff]

Ah, I love this tip, Ruth! That's a great idea to use the spinach in soups. We like to add fresh spinach, but I hadn't thought to use canned. I need to learn how to dry can because that sounds like a great way to preserve those dry ingredients better.

[@ruthm4749]

@@MelLockcuff . I watched several videos on you tube, and determined the best way to dry can for my purposes. Works great. I've even canned ground coffee in small jars so it's air tight. But if you use a vacuum sealer on flour it may not help prevent bug activity, which defeats the purpose for long term storage. Canning in the oven helps destroy larve that may be present and also builds a vacuum seal all at once. Mylar bags are a nice idea, but mice can still chew thru the packages, even buckets are suseptible. Glass jars with vacuum seal are best.

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

Nice pantry tour. I can most of my necessities, but recently increased my herb & seasoning blends. My dehydrator has been a God send.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! Yes, we've been working on increasing our spices and seasonings, and we're planning to grow some more herbs this year.

[@jeaniejbutler4911]

I just got a dehydrater as a gift from my ex roommate...I am still trying to learn how to tell when the items are done, since it came with no instructions. Can anyone help me with that or tell me of a site i can go to that will tell me how long to dehydrate what?

[@camm8832]

Jeaniej Butler What a great gift! Try to see if there is a brand name anywhere on it so you can look it up on the web as most companies have their booklets online. Otherwise there may be the same Info. that would be helpful enough even if it’s another brand. There are probably videos out there about dehydrating and times for different items. I watched one the other day of a woman making fruit leather. Good luck!

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

@@jeaniejbutler4911 There's a book on dehydrating. Dehydrators with an adjustable temp is best (herbs & leafy greens need lower temp). Also check playlist of Bev Volfie @ ourhalfacrehomestead. She has recipes too!

[@SimplyBeautiful516]

My pantry is a set of cupboards in our kitchen. But, I’m still amazed at how much I can store.

[@MelLockcuff]

It's amazing what you can fit when you need to.

[@cheryl1205]

Seems like good info, but after only 7.5 minutes in I've had to adjust my speaker volume 3 times. Will check on this channel again later and see if that issue has been resolved.

[@cindymeyer838]

Looks beautiful! Do yourself a favor and secure your shelves to protect what you 've collected by placing a bar along the bottom edge of the shelf to prevent it from falling onto the floor during an earthquake. Make everything stable .

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks for the tip, Cindy!

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us. When researching and gathering tips about food storage and general prepping, it is easy to get overwhelmed in the process of prioritizing and shopping for the best deals. Seeing someone's actual working pantry puts it all into a perspective that makes it seem more manageable and practical as well as balanced. It's better to have a months supply of everything than a years worth of certain items but only a weeks worth of others. The working pantry being just an expanded or larger version of things you already use and buy now is a great approach to being prepared and in a way that ensures you will actually use the items you stock. I'm taking an approach now of just buying more of my regular things rather than focusing on just things that store well for a long time with no refrigeration. Once you have the essentials covered than adding in all these other more common items is the difference between a survival rationing excursion and just living like we do now, and pretty well I might add.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! I wish you the best in stocking your working pantry.

[@Kathyrawhide]

Thank you for your tips. My husband newly diabetic & very skinny hes picky everything we stocked is now being donated. & changing our pantry

[@MelLockcuff]

Kathy, I'm glad to be of assistance.

[@helencherry9133]

Nice video! I added notes to my ever growing list of things "not to forget".

[@angelikabertrand4045]

Oh boy I feel for you. Because at one time my dr thought I was celiac. I used to get very sick after my gall bladder surgery. It took a few tests later that we finally found out I was not celiac. So glad. Feel for you.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you, Angelika. I am learning to live with it. Once I realized gluten was causing a problem, dropping it made such a huge difference.

[@benjamindrew9232]

@@MelLockcuff I've heard if you grind your own spelt berries and use wild yeast (Look up sour dough starter) it makes a very tolerable grain product for "Some" not all to consume. 🙂

[@robertalee2]

Angelika Bertrand .... It was true for me too. You gallbladder helps to digest some foods. When it is removed some people lose their ability to eat certain foods. You just have to find out what they are the hard way.

[@MelLockcuff]

@@benjamindrew9232 would spelt berries be the same as wheat berries? My son makes sourdough, and he's ground up his own wheat berries in the past.

[@MelLockcuff]

@Cyndi Rothrock Ah, I did not know this. Good to know. It's really opened my eyes watching ingredients because it's in so many things.

[@ninablanco2645]

I think what you have done is great!! I have started doing mine but it takes time to have it ready and functional. I like the shelves.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much, Nina! It does take time and a lot of careful planning.

[@karenroberton3290]

Beans are a low gkycemic food your diabetic could enjoy them. Just a smaller portion.

[@mashroob]

I LOVE watching these!! The colors alone just brighten my day. Thanks for the eye-candy! ^_^

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much! So glad you enjoyed.

[@tiggywinkle7522]

It's important to store home canned jars with bands off and unstacked. The stacking can compromise seals, and better safe than sorry. Saw another video that mentioned it, just wanted to pass it on. Bands need to come off so that if a seal is compromised the band won't hold it on! Thanks for the information! This is just where I'm at.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much for the information! I didn't realize this until it was mentioned recently, so I'm hurriedly unstacking my jars and checking seals.

[@servicedogchopper7613]

Use your empty jars to stock water. Fill them with water and/or can it until you need them. Just see a lot of empty canning jars upside down. Those can be used to store a good amount of water. Use the oldest stored ones to them empty and can. Clean out, sterilize the ones you empty to can more water. Use empty spaces in a manner to can water. Or just fill them with water without canning. It's a great way to store empty canning jars to them also be useful.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! This is a great tip.

[@ashleyswshr]

Love that Everything Bagel seasoning. I have to have my tea as well.

[@MelLockcuff]

I am anxious to try that seasoning; I still have not tried it yet, but have heard so many good things. Yes, my oldest loves his tea.

[@catherinefrasier4051]

I love Young Living! Thanks for the Pantry info. I'm just getting started. You gave me a lot of great tips.

[@MelLockcuff]

That's great, Catherine! Yes, we use Young Living a lot.

[@MyTableofThree]

This was so helpful! I’m new at food storage and building a working pantry for our family too. I also use that same vanilla. Thanks for sharing!

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! I wish you all the best in building your pantry too. Isn't that vanilla wonderful? I just love it.

[@lauranewman7606]

Same here. Working slowly adding a safety pantry. I realize if I buy something extra each shopping trip I make, we will be in good shape. Also, if can and available, watch for international food stores. In our city we have a large Indian population, so you can get a 10lbs of rice for only 5.99! Now, that's a steal. Regular Publix or Krogers don't have deals like this even with their sales promotions.

[@rayanvelasquez6713]

You are balanced ! The way a pantry should look like , a lot of pantries I've viewed look like mini groceries stores , I learned more from you than anything out there , what your doing is doable and reasonable ! Thank you !

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much, Rayan! I'm glad we could help.

[@Staceypellas1322]

You should can the flour over time it will get bugs even in that container . If the flour has any egg in it when it gets hot out the eggs could still hatch and the flour will go bad still . The bucket may keep bugs out but it will keep the ones in that may already be in there already . There are videos on KZbin that showed you how to can dry foods like flour and sugar . And you can freeze your soft taco shells

[@MelLockcuff]

Great tips. Yes, we are working on better dry goods storage, so we can keep the bugs away.

[@Staceypellas1322]

You can dry can it or freeze it and it would be better .

[@Staceypellas1322]

Just a thought

[@angelaramseyrobinson4407]

Stacey pellas I’ve heard if you freeze it for three days it kills any eggs.

[@texas-red538]

I use a lot of oils to as a therapist- love thieves!!! Awesome vid!! I have projects to work on for my pantry!! Thank u for the inspiration!!!! Better to be WELL stocked than not!!!!

[@MelLockcuff]

That's very interesting. Yes, it is better to be stocked than not, better to be safe than sorry. Thanks for watching!

[@heartofdixieprepping4797]

Vinegar is a great for cleaning. Does a great job on glass or mirrors. I add some to laundry too.

[@MelLockcuff]

Sherry, agreed. I love using vinegar for so many things around the house.

[@dannyscobee6530]

You should look into dry canning for things like rice, beans, pasta. Better for storage vs just the bags they come in.

[@wytchyprepper3370]

Parboiled rice has a very low glycemic index, even better than brown rice and stores for up to 30 yrs. Beans are worth the carbs as they have a high protein content and break down at a steady rate. Controlled diabetic Prepper here as well :-)

[@MelLockcuff]

Great to know about the rice and beans. Thank you!

[@nandinibandhini]

Hi Mel. Well done! Really inspiring. Thanks.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you!

[@heidiwalker8807]

Thanks for this video. I’ve just recently started storing food but it has been hard because I like you have a type 1 diabetic and a glutton intolerant in our house so most of the foods I buy have to work with them in mind. It makes for a pretty bland stash but at least we have it. You are the first video I have come across that has addressed these food issues.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much, Heidie. I'm glad we could help. I know exactly how you feel, though we've thankfully been able to find ways to help with the bland (gluten-free spices are my friends).

[@ms.fortune2957]

How are u going to do all of that BAKING if ur POWER is out doll? OMG I MISS MY SNOOPY SNOW CONE MACHINE😮u took me back to my childhood..LOL😂😂😂😂😂🌸 Thanks for sharing

[@MelLockcuff]

We do a lot of baking over the fire or on the grill too. I always wanted a Snoopy snow cone machine when I was little, so I couldn't resist it when I found it. 🤣 Thank you for watching!

[@ms.fortune2957]

@@MelLockcuff My Grandmother bakes cornbread on top the stove, the grill is a GREAT IDEA💕🏆

[@laylahalgharib1892]

Solar power. Jackery. Amazon

[@BeTrue05]

@@MelLockcuff how do you bake over fire and grill?

[@royalrayne8948]

Great tour!!! Thanks!!😊😊😊

[@patschneider5671]

I am new to ‘prep’. I’d keep those games, one person mentioned. Staying inside I’d want some other type of entertainment, for a change. These big pantries give me a great goal! Thanks for your terrific info! A Colorado Shopper and future Prepper

[@CoolTaxiDriver]

Add more rice and beans. It makes a complete protein. The one thing that might be more difficult to get will be meat and canned goods. For an emergency, you may want to make sure that diabetic food will last for the one who needs it.

[@benjamindrew9232]

Great cheap recipes? Get the Aldi's egg noodles and dump a can of cream of chicken or mushroom in per half a bag and maybe some veggies of choice. That can make a huge meal for under 3 bucks! 🙂

[@MelLockcuff]

Sounds delicious! And very filling too.

[@davidbown2707]

And canned chicken

[@susantaylor8507]

I was just looking at that brand today I was going to get some for my pantry I guess I should get some

[@selove-sc8zx]

You are my sister! I've been nodding along the whole way.

[@rosaloving9106]

If you’re diabetic I see a lot of foods that are high in fructose, sugar and processed-can fruit, pasta. One can get rid of diabetes by going low carb and no sugar. It’s an easy lifestyle to sustain.

[@MelLockcuff]

I am not diabetic. My husband is, so we stock the right kinds of foods for him, as well.

[@loli_d]

Loced ypu spices and oils. On the spices, I don't feel so lonely anymore. LOL As to the oils, that's very interesting!

[@edwinabbel3783]

You are doing a great job!! Keep it up!! Greetings from the Netherlands! E.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! So nice to "meet" you!

[@edwinabbel3783]

@@MelLockcuff you are welcome! Lots of luck in this pandemic!

[@1sttimemom76]

Best thing in the video. Snoopy snow cone machine. Lol. Haven't seen 1 in a while.

[@MelLockcuff]

I always wanted one as a kid. When I saw this one, I just had to get it.

[@nvc9060]

Ah...you also have my circa 1968 lazy susan in your cabinet😀

[@paulm4875]

This is first video than I saw from you. Your voice so amazing! Good bless to you and all your family! Btw, buy the bulk more cheap if you will order from food distributor, who works with restaurants and deli.

[@MelLockcuff]

Great tips! Thank you!

[@angelpurcell3156]

Look for Homstead Tessie on KZbin she is amazing on canning and she can meats too

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much, Angel! Will do.

[@tinahammond4438]

I follow homestead tessie, she's such a sweet hard working woman...and knows how to keep her bills down!!!

[@gypsylife7822]

Also ourhalfacrehomestead has great canning videos!

[@ciannacoleman5125]

I like that you are making a video taking food issues into account. I fell like so many say to heck with diet restrictions since it is a “emergency” stock but often you can’t just disregard that without problems

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you! Yeah, it's a real issue here, especially for my husband, who really could not survive on rice and beans.

[@jeaniejbutler4911]

you came up in my recommend, love the video, I always say well i no . my neighbor gave me your site

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you!

[@jeronnamoe]

i thought abt doing this but then i stopped thinking abt it....now i'm going to start to try and do it again. I lost my job and food is tight. I think if i do this i can stay ahead of things.

[@MelLockcuff]

You can do it! I wish you all the best.

[@susandarling1457]

Nice storage!

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much, Susan!

[@fnmag6809]

Bravo. Keep it up

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you very much!

[@beverlysantillano]

Please link where you get the bulk gluten free flour. Love Badia seasonings too! Where did you get your big jar vanilla.? Great video

[@plankpoop1]

Good job! Thank you for sharing with us!

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you, Patricia!

[@shirleydrake1602]

Very nice pantry.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much!

[@Kay-oz2tk]

I got those same beets from Aldi's recently. I normally buy my beets from the produce section but I have been leery about buying fresh fruit & vegetables since the pandemic especially now that I've heard a couple stories about these jack-o'-lanterns sneezing all over the produce section. I love beets though. I think that we've all gotten an accidental mouth full of dirt as kids and beets taste like the best dirt ever. I totally get the chocolate thing too. Spices too? Yes girl. Red wine is good to have as well. I drink about 8 ounces just before bed to take the edge off. Dry milk yes. You just confirmed what I'm doing. Thank you 👏

[@MelLockcuff]

Awesome! Thank you! Yeah, my guys love their beets. The taste of them takes me back to childhood too; we grew them in the garden, and my mom just loved them. Red wine is another great addition, yes!

[@margritpiepes8242]

Yes I go Aldi at least 2x a week they have really good stuff.some items are too much in price so I go Dollar tree

[@susantaylor8507]

Yes we lost our job 6 years ago I know we scrambled to pay Bill's and get food my husband is diabetic to I been stocking since 3 months before this very start in the USA

[@hollywyvill5015]

Great job! Thank you for sharing with us. I LOVE seeing this type of information on peepers pantry. I too have a diabetic in the household, and he doesn’t always like to cooperate within his dietary restrictions. He calls me the food nazi. 😂I too stock up on the baking chocolate/chocolate/ By the way, Lindt Seasalt chocolate is beautifully sinful. That would be my weakness. Thanks again for the video.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thank you so much, Holly! LOL Yes, Lindt Sea Salt is the absolute best! That and Ghirardelli Dark Sea Salt Caramel are my weaknesses for sure.

[@ericsgranny8933]

Thanks for this great advice!

[@amiradeshon5501]

Nice work on this stock pile !! Great video. New subscriber

[@lakore1201]

If you run out of your jelly you can take the juice you have and turn it into homemade jelly. It works great!

[@MelLockcuff]

We have not tried this yet, but we want to.

[@robertalee2]

Good idea. This is basically the way you make jelly.

[@greenlady43]

Search KZbin for canned chicken. I just watched a video the other day. Looks fairly easy

[@TheTidyhome]

If you think you have a gluten intolerance, make sure its not an additive or a genetically modified part of the gluten foods that are causing an issue, or else you will be fighting an uphill battle. Try for a food sensitivity test and an allergy test at a doctors office to get more health information to take care of you.

[@hannahleigh2899]

T Williams there’s 2 types of gluten allergies, an intolerance also known as celiac disease. The testing for that is extremely painful for someone with celiac or a gluten intolerance. It’s 3 weeks of eating what your allergic to so most physicians will just assume you have it because the effects are damaging to your body and the symptoms are very prominent . Then there is an actual allergy to gluten that will give you more “normal” allergic reactions symptoms and possibly anaphylaxis. I do agree it may be something else but avoiding what you know makes you sick is the best option in my opinion.

[@hannahleigh2899]

This is me being friendly just so you know! The testing is hard on the body and pricy so I’m just letting you know why she may have said that :) and she may have had some done but at least In the US HIPPA is a privacy law and it’s not my place to ask lol

[@benjamindrew9232]

I can meats. I have found with whole meats "Not ground" that after cubing it up, boil it in a pot of water and skim as much of the junk of the top as possible and the drain the rest of the water. Fill the pot up again with hot tap water, do a stir and drain again. It's more work but the end product is much better and not one big clump of meat. And it makes the jars easier to clean. But, if you're in a hurry it can just simply be cubed and stuffed tightly in a jar to the proper headspace (I do it tight, but for safety reasons you may pack it a little looser). No need to add water if packing tight. Also, the jars will be a bit cool stuffing raw meat into them, so the canner water should just be room temperature with this method. At least that's how I do it.

[@MelLockcuff]

Thanks so much for the tips! We are really wanting to learn how to do this, so I'm looking forward to putting some of these tips to good use. I especially want to can some chicken. Beef would be good too because we do eat a lot of ground beef.

[@benjamindrew9232]

@@MelLockcuff I'll warn you though. Home canning meat isn't the same as store bought canned meat. Home canning alters the flavor and the texture. You may have to get used to it. Especially ground beef. I don't care for the flavor of home canned ground beef by it self. But for me it lends itself very well for spaghetti and taco meat. The texture is almost like taco bell taco meat! Lol I would say just do a small run. Like one pint of precooked ground beef, chicken cubed and uncubed and some cubed or uncubed beef. What ever you choose I understand we're supposed to can a minimum of four jars per the safety guidelines. Then the next day, crack em open and see what you think. 🙂

[@oldtimerlee8820]

@@MelLockcuff Canning plain meat is relatively easy. If you don't have one, pick up a Ball Blue Book (about $10) and follow their instructions for meats. (I prefer hard copy when I'm in the kitchen.) Ball, Presto canning, USDA and a number of university websites are online sources for tested procedures for safely putting meat into jars. I can beef, chicken, pork, turkey and venison (when I can get it), too. Depending on the meat and what I'm using it for, I raw pack or hot pack. Each method has its pros & cons. I usually use hot pack for meat chunks that will be used for salads, casseroles, soups and stews. Hot packing also yields additional broths that can be canned separately. I also can ground meats, as directed, using the applicable broth for the liquid. This is for pasta sauce, and other recipes that can benefit from pre-cooked ground beef. Great addition to soups, for example. As a general rule, I don't can "recipes". I can "ingredients".And, I leave out the salt suggestion. Canning meats and vegetables, as is, gives the ability to use these in many different ways. Season, to taste, when these ingredients are added to a dish during meal prep. Tip: During holidays, take advantage of the meat specials that go along with them. Buy in bulk and freeze, if you have to, until you have time to can them. Buy frozen turkeys on Thanksgiving sales. Can them in January. Buy hams at Easter and can when the opportunity presents itself. Backyard cooking is the next one. Watch for meat sales for things that go on the grill or in the smoker. Hamburger, pork loin, chicken halves....

[@JohnDoe-do3fm]

What was in the glass jars next to the canned chicken and concord grape jelly?

[@MelLockcuff]

John, that would be homemade apple jelly. Thanks for watching!

[@wesleydavis5406]

Need to store your stuff in Mylar bags with o 2 absorbers

[@MelLockcuff]

I’ll look into that, Wesley. Thanks for the tip.

[@kathyscrazylife]

Thanks for this info.

[@dianenugent3666]

You also have to check expiration dates on everything you want to store.

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, you do. I like to store the new behind the old.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

Diane, while it is best to use the principle of "First In, First Out", as a general rule those "Best Buy" and "Sell By" dates are NOT expiration dates. The only exception that I know of is for baby food that's covered by regulations. "Best By" is the date the food processor chose to put on their product. It simply means the contents of the can or jar is "Best" , in their opinion, during the time period indicated. *Properly canned, both home canned and commercially canned food is safe to eat, as long as the seal is not broken.* If the seal is intact, nothing can get into the container to cause spoilage. Yes, there can be some nutrition loss and color/flavor changes over time. Those don't affect safety. An example: White rice has a 30+ year shelf life, if properly stored. Yet, a bag of rice from the grocery store carries a "Best By" date about 2 years out. Personal experience: I stored white rice in sanitized 2 liter soda bottles in Feb 2010. I ate some of that rice for supper last night - April 2020. If I had used the processor's "Best By" as an EXPIRATION date that rice would have been in a landfill many years ago! Don't take my word for it. Do research for yourself. You'll save time, money and reduce waste by re-evaluating those how those dates are to be understood. Hope this helps.

[@Lisawhatshersname]

@@oldtimerlee8820 another good point! The "best by" dates are indicators for the grocery to rotate stock. Also the original plastic containers will break down quicker than glass or the food safe canisters with gamma lids.

[@yannist368]

Im Vegan and i have Diabetes i eat tons of beans and rice and veggies My A1C when from 12.2 now its 8.6 and im losing weight i dont eat no meat. I pre all my food

[@MelLockcuff]

That's great! Thanks for sharing!

[@kan-zee]

do you take into account...the expiry / best buy date, with your canned goods ?? Your video show and tell...has given me a ton of things, that I am missing...I got some update shopping to do...thanks for this video. Very helpful

[@MelLockcuff]

Yes, I do. I want to make sure we're not wasting anything and that we're able to consume before it expires. That's one reason I recommend shelving new behind the old, and move the old forward or up, so they get used quicker.

[@benjamindrew9232]

Those are merely best by dates. Canned goods last a very long time. I have soup and meats I canned in 2016 I'm eating on and it's just fine. Tomatoes might not have as long as a life unless you can them yourself.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

"Best By" dates are NOT expiration dates. It's the date the food processor determines to be for the "best" quality of their product. Last time I checked, other than baby foods, there are no regulations on the use of "Best By", "Sell By" or "Use By" dates. For properly home canned or commercially canned foods, the food is safe to eat, as long as the seal isn't broken. Nothing can get into the container to spoil the food! Over time there can be some nutrition loss, along with flavor and color changes which do not affect safety. Some signs that the seal has been broken are bulging and/or leaking cans, foul odor, excessive foaming, unusual color changes and/or evidence of mold. If in doubt, throw it out. Don't throw it out simply because of a date stamped on the can. I'd rather have 85% of the original nutrition than to have nothing to eat.

[@oldtimerlee8820]

@@benjamindrew9232 They do last a very long time! With canned foods, those with high acid content usually have the shortest shelf life. Tomatoes, as you mentioned, especially in metal cans are subject to corrosion. Pineapple is another one. Even if the seal isn't broken, each can take on a metallic flavor from the can. Home canning, indeed, is the best way to preserve acidic foods for long term. Glass is inert and lids are coated and there's minimal contact between the lid and the contents of the jar. I have tomatoes on my pantry shelf to prove it! Canned a number of years ago, during a bountiful harvest, I save those few remaining jars for a soup I make for family gatherings.

[@Lisawhatshersname]

Also please do be careful of those "pop-top" cans. I didn't see any in your rotation, but I have some pop top pineapple, and one of them "popped" and leaked juice all over the rest of my stock! Just FYI

[@taraqueen58]

I just can't believe how much Americans stock up being from England this is like a corner shop not a pantry

[@MelLockcuff]

Haha, it's definitely different over here, Tara. Thanks for watching the video!

[@lisabevans8107]

Well I did not Read all of the Comments I would be curious if you keep a list a running list of food in your pantry and what you need I've just started a pantry and I'm doing what I can but I'm sure I'm Forgetting things

[@MelLockcuff]

This is something I need to do, and I may do a future video about this. It'd definitely make it easier to keep track.

[@Michelle-oz1jc]

Ha - I feel the same about your spinach!

[@MelLockcuff]

It's just yucky. But my husband and my oldest love it, so...

[@carmenwheatley7316]

I love spinach, cooked or raw. We had a garden when we were growing up, so we had a taste for vegetables at a young age. I remember the summer months or blistering heat while canning was done. But eventually my parents bought a huge chest freezer and started freezing most of the produce.