When you go into a store or a deli and see fresh food, you know it is unlikely that all that food will be purchased and consumed before the day is done.
It is more likely that much of the food will be thrown out.
These days some stores are giving the left over food to shelters which feed the homeless.
However, there is still an enormous amount of waste in the fresh food industry.
Food storage is something which is suggested in order to be prepared for emergencies which may come up in one's life.
It could be a natural disaster or it could be a personal financial problem which could require usage of the food when money is not available to purchase food and supplies.
Emergency preparedness is an issue which has been given more credence lately with the seemingly increased numbers of huge natural disasters which have been occurring throughout the world.
Hardly a week goes by without some big problems being reported in the news.
It has become increasingly important to plan for the future.
A part of being prepared which has been recommended for decades by certain churches and community groups is food storage.
Not a lot of people worry about food storage or even become remotely involved with it.
However, it is gaining in popularity as it becomes more evident that being prepared for emergencies is a wise move.
Although a simple family storage plan for enough food may have little effect during enormous natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis, most people do not lose their homes when nature wrecks havoc.
If their homes are left intact, food storage could be a life saver for families during times of disaster.
When something really bad happens, it is said that it takes at least three days in most instances for agencies to arrive with needed food and supplies.
Most instances of needing to use stored food may arrive when personal disasters strike a family such as a health problem or the loss or a job.
Money may become scarce which will make purchasing food difficult.
Having a supply of food on hand can be a sense of security and may be a way of sustaining a family during hard times.
Just as fresh food is meant to be eaten, food meant for storage should be used on a regular basis.
Families should learn to use the food which is often dehydrated for longer shelf life.
It may take some study and practice to use the food for meals even when there is no disaster or need.
This way the family becomes familiar with the taste.
It is then not a shock if they do need to use the food storage items.
Food storage should be rotated and used regularly.
It is meant to be consumed and not just stored until it is thrown out.
Being involved in the emergency preparedness area with food as a home based business helps people learn about food and how to use it effectively.