Rice

Rice won’t truly last “forever,” but rice that has been stored in an airtight, dry container away from bugs, grain weevils, and other pests, can last for several years. Brown rice is the exception to the rule. Because of its high oil content, it will spoil much faster than other varieties, including white, arborio, jasmine, and basmati rices, according to Mother Nature Network.

To keep rice, either store it in a cool, dry area in its original packaging, or place it in an airtight container or in a heavy duty freezer bag, according to the site.

Dry Beans and Lentils

Dried beans are great bulk purchases because they are full of nutrients and inexpensive sources of protein. Like rice, dried beans can be stored for long periods of time when stored in airtight containers, in cool, dry places. If you freeze or refrigerate them, you will introduce moisture and the beans may lose flavor, but you can pre-soak and freeze beans for cooking convenience.

Rodale Organic News advises that you should soak the beans overnight, then boil them for 45 minutes to an hour, until they begin to soften. Once cooled, you can package the strained beans into freezer containers and they can be stored for a year or longer, ready for use in your next dish.

Instant Beverages

Instant coffee crystals, iced tea or lemonade, or even instant hot cocoa are all examples of instant drinks that, if kept sealed ,will last indefinitely. Once opened, these crystals will need to be kept away from moisture, either in an airtight container or in a heavy-duty zipper bag. These instant beverages are prone to clumping from humidity, so keep them in sealed containers away from moisture.