How do I Stock a Pantry?

A well-stocked and organized pantry can make cooking easier because commonly used ingredients will be readily accessible. Non-perishable food items that do not require refrigeration typically have a long shelf life, and may last for several months or years. When you stock a pantry, you should include a combination of ready-to-eat canned goods, as well as items that you are likely to use frequently for cooking. Broth, spices and seasonings, breadcrumbs, oils, flour, sugar, and other similar products are among the most common staple items typically found a kitchen pantry.

Ready-to-eat foods, like canned soup or stew, should probably be included in your shopping list when you stock a pantry. These items will be especially helpful to have on hand when you are feeling under-the-weather or simply too tired to cook a full meal. Other popular products that are easy to prepare may include pasta, rice, and packaged tuna. Snack foods — like potato chips, crackers, peanut butter, or nuts — are also common staple items in some kitchens.

One of the most important things to consider when you stock a pantry is to include food items that you and your family will use and enjoy. If you consume a lot of a particular product, you may want to take advantage of sales or purchase it in bulk. This way, you will have plenty of it available, and will need to shop for it less often. This practice can save you valuable time and money.

Organizing a pantry can be as important as the items it contains. If you have trouble finding what you are looking for because the space is cluttered, then you may find yourself spending a lot of money purchasing duplicate products when you do not actually need them. You should come up with a system that works best for you. Most people find it helpful to place frequently-consumed items at eye level, with labels facing outward. Keeping all of the cans on the same shelf and storing boxes or other packages on a separate shelf can make organization easier when you stock a pantry.

Usually, non-perishable items are completely safe to store and consume. Keep in mind, however, that even though they usually last a long time, most products do have expiration dates and should be checked regularly. If you notice any swollen cans in your pantry, you should throw them away. A bulging can is usually a sign that the food is contaminated with the clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can cause serious illness if consumed.