Last Updated on November 7, 2022 by
While it’s true that many shelf-stable foods are often loaded with preservatives (think condiments, lunch meats, and bags of chips), there are a number of good-for-you foods thatlast for a long time, too—au naturel.
“In general, the more processed a food, the higher its content of fat, salt, sugar, calories, and/or cholesterol and the lower its content of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber,” says Elizabeth Somer, M.A., RD, and medical advisory board member for Persona Nutrition. “When shopping for healthier shelf-stable foods, try to choose minimally-processed products that contain whole grains, plain fruits and vegetables or frozen/canned versions packaged in their own juice, nuts, legumes, or frozen chicken or fish. Ignore the label claims and go straight to the nutrition information on the back.”
We recommend stocking up on these long-lasting staples whenever it’s convenient so they’ll be on hand when you’re ready to get cooking.
Healthy Food That Doesn’t Go Bad

- Nuts
With so many options to choose from, nuts are a great source of protein, fat, and fiber that offer a lot of variety.
Most types of nuts last for about a year — even longer if frozen.
- Canned meats and seafood
Canned meats and seafood can last for 2–5 years in many cases.
They’re an excellent source of protein and, in the case of canned fish, omega-3 fatty acids.
- Dried grains
Grains can typically be stored for years, as long as they’re kept dry and sealed tightly.
If you need to follow a gluten-free diet, consider rice, buckwheat, and gluten-free oats.
- Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate that’s stored in a cool, dry place can last 4–6 months past the “best by” date on its label.
It’s an excellent source of fiber, magnesium, and many other important nutrients.
- Canned fruits and veggies
Canned fruits and vegetables that have been fermented or pickled are sold in airtight containers.
Because they’re usually packaged in an acidic solution, they can last for years.
When buying canned fruits, be sure to choose a variety that doesn’t contain a lot of added sugar.
Watch More
- Dried fruit
Dried fruit is loaded with various nutrients, including fiber. However, it should only be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie contents.
The dehydration process prevents the fruit from molding easily.
- Canned coconut milk
Coconut milk is high in saturated fat, but this type of fat tends to be stable and doesn’t go rancid easily.
When canned coconut milk is sealed properly, it will resist spoiling for over a year.
- Dried beans
Beans are one of the easiest sources of protein to store long term. They have a naturally low moisture content and can last for years.
Additionally, beans are among the most nutritious foods you can eat. They’re loaded with protein, fiber, and various important minerals, such as magnesium.
- Jerky
Just like dried beans, jerky can be a great choice if you need high-protein options.
Pretty much any meat can be dried or dehydrated and stored for up to a year or more, as long as it’s stored in airtight packaging.
- Protein powders
Protein powders, including whey protein or vegan options, are easy-to-store protein sources that can last up to 5 years. - Dehydrated milk
Similar to protein powder, dehydrated milk powder stores easily and lasts even longer, or up to 10 years. - Honey
Honey is a natural antibiotic due to its high sugar and surprisingly low moisture contents.
Therefore, properly stored honey can last for years or even much longer. In fact, some people claim it never goes bad.
If you want to use a sweetener, honey is healthier than refined sugar. However, it should only be consumed in moderation.
- Hard cheese encased in wax
When hard cheese is sealed in a waxy outer coating, it can last up to 25 years before beginning to spoil. - Ghee
Ghee is clarified butter from which all the non-fat solids have been removed.
Because it consists largely of saturated fats, it can last a very long time at room temperature if it’s well sealed.
- Coconut oil
Similar to ghee, coconut oil is high in saturated fat and can last for years on a shelf at room temperature.
It’s also handy to keep around for a variety of health reasons.