Buying in bulk is a smart way to save money and reduce waste, especially when it comes to pantry must-haves and non-perishable items. Some foods are not only cost-effective when purchased in larger quantities but also last a long time, making them ideal for stocking up.
In this article, we highlight the ten foods you should always consider buying in bulk and tips on how to store them properly.
Rice
Rice is a versatile staple that can be used in countless recipes, from stir-fries to soups. It’s affordable, has a long shelf life, and is easy to store.
- Choose varieties like white rice, basmati, or jasmine, which can last for years when stored in an airtight container.
- For brown rice, store it in the freezer or fridge to prevent the natural oils from going rancid.
- Keep your rice in a cool, dry place to ensure freshness.
Pasta
Pasta is another pantry essential that’s worth stocking up on and buying in bulk. It’s quick to cook and pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings. Dry pasta can be stored in its original packaging or transferred to airtight containers to keep it fresh. Since it doesn’t spoil easily, you can stock up on multiple shapes and sizes to suit different recipes.
Dried Beans and Lentils
Dried beans and lentils are nutritious, versatile, and significantly cheaper than their canned counterparts when bought in bulk.
- Store them in airtight containers to keep them free from moisture and pests.
- They’re perfect for soups, stews, and salads, offering a healthy, protein-rich alternative to meat.
- Soaking and cooking dried beans may take more time, but the savings and nutritional value are worth it.
Oats
Oats are a versatile staple, popular as a breakfast option, and useful in a variety of recipes, including baking or as a topping for yogurt and smoothies. Whether you prefer rolled oats, steel-cut oats, or quick oats, they can be purchased in bulk and stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Keeping them in a cool, dry place helps preserve their quality over time and reduces wastage in your home.
Oats can be used to create classic oatmeal, homemade granola bars, or even inventive savory dishes like oat risotto, making them a practical and adaptable addition to your pantry.
Flour
Flour is a baking essential that’s easy to buy in large quantities, especially if you bake regularly.
- Store flour in airtight containers to prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors.
- For whole wheat or almond flour, refrigeration or freezing is best to extend shelf life.
- Sift flour before using if it’s been stored for a long time to ensure it’s light and clump-free.
Sugar
Sugar is an excellent item to buy in bulk due to its long shelf life and versatility in various recipes. Granulated, brown, and powdered sugars can all be stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent clumping.
To keep brown sugar soft and prevent it from hardening, include a small piece of bread or a sugar saver in the container.
With proper storage, sugar remains usable indefinitely, making it a cost-effective bulk purchase.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are nutrient-rich snacks that also work well in baking and cooking. Buying them in bulk can save money, but to maintain freshness and prevent their natural oils from turning rancid, store them in the freezer.
Options like almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds are excellent choices for bulk buying. For added convenience, portion them into smaller bags or containers to make snacking or meal preparation easier.
Spices
Spices, particularly household favorites like salt, pepper, and garlic powder, are another smart bulk-buy item. Store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and strength.
Whole spices, such as peppercorns or cinnamon sticks, have a longer shelf life compared to ground spices and can be freshly ground as needed, offering both cost efficiency and enhanced flavor in your dishes.
Canned Goods
Canned goods are versatile shelf-stable and perfect for buying in bulk, particularly when it comes to home staples like tomatoes, beans, and tuna.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place, and use a first-in, first-out system to rotate older cans to the front.
- Look for bulk discounts on multi-packs to save even more.
With proper storage and smart shopping habits, canned goods can become a cornerstone of your pantry, offering convenience, affordability, and peace of mind.
Frozen Fruits and Vegetables
If you have the storage space, buying frozen produce in bulk is a great way to save money and reduce food waste.
- Fruits like berries and vegetables like broccoli or spinach are ideal for smoothies, soups, and side dishes.
- Keep them in freezer-safe bags to maintain freshness and avoid freezer burn.
Buying these foods in bulk not only helps you save money but also ensures you always have pantry staples on hand. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy fresh-tasting, high-quality ingredients for months to come.
These essentials make bulk buying a smart and convenient choice for any household.