Guidelines for Obtaining Long Term Food Storage

By Mike P Nelson

After creating a three-month supply of food, and storing a two-week supply of water for each person in your household, it is time to start working on long-term food storage.

The goal with long-term food storage is to get a one year supply of food items with a long shelf life. This food supply should begin with basic items that will sustain life in an emergency in case there is nothing else to eat. Items stored should be capable of having a shelf life of 25 to 30 years or more.

The following basic items might be considered for storage. Indicated with the item is the approximate amount of each needed to sustain an average person for one year in an emergency.

• 300 lbs. of Grains (Wheat, rice, or other cereals)
• 100 lbs. of Powdered Milk (non-fat)
• 100 lbs. of Sugar or Honey
• 150 lbs. of Beans and Legumes
• 100 lbs. of Flour
• 2 Gal. of Cooking Oil or Shortening
• 5 lbs. of Salt
• 1 lb. of Baking Powder

These items provide a diet that supplies approximately 2,300 calories per day. The above suggested items may be proportionately reduced as other foods are added. Those frequently chosen to be added to the above list are dried legumes (peas, beans, peanuts, and lentils) which are high in protein and store well. Vegetable oils, dried fruits and vegetables, and canned meats and fish would also make great additions.

As you can see from the above mentioned long-term food items, meals made from these ingredients would be very basic and probably wouldn't do much more than sustain life. I know, however, that there are many recipe books that show how to make great tasting meals out of these ingredients.

Ready-made freeze-dried and dehydrated foods may be included in your long-term food storage preparations. These tend to be slightly more expensive, but can be great tasting, easy to prepare, and tend to retain their vitamin content better. Ready-made freeze-dried and dehydrated foods will take your food supply beyond just sustaining life in an emergency to providing variety, good nutrition, and great taste during times of emergency.

When storing long-term food storage items the following items need to be considered:

1. Buy quality products. Obtain top grade whenever possible and store it away from other products that may affect the flavor of the food.
2. Use proper containers. Usually metal storage cans or heavy plastic containers with air-tight lids are the best.
3. Use easily accessible storage facilities.
4. Foods should be stored at cool temperatures (between 40 to 60 deg. F.).
5. Regularly rotate food storage items to prevent spoilage. Date food items when you purchase them and use the oldest items first.
6. Foods should be stored in a well-ventilated, cool, dry, dark, and clean area.
7. Do not place food storage containers on or against cement or dirt floors and walls. Place pieces of wood under and between the storage containers to provide ventilation and to protect from moisture.
8. Don't go into debt to obtain long-term food storage. Acquire food storage items gradually.

Hopefully these guidelines will give you some good ideas on how to get started on long-term food storage so that you are prepared in case there is some sort of emergency.

Mike Nelson is a Mechanical Engineer with a general interest in emergency preparedness, food storage, and gardening. Please visit his website at http://www.SmartChoiceFoodStorage.com to purchase freeze dried and dehydrated foods, survival kits, first aid kits, and water filtration products.

Healthy And Paleo Travel Snacks

By Jessica Drummond

While hanging out awaiting Hurricane Sandy, I decided to review some of my favorite staples to have when hunkering down for a storm, or packing up for a long journey. (And, FYI... the storm was rough on our Connecticut neighborhood, but we are recovering well. Thanks!)

What should you bring when you travel... even if it's just to escape an epic storm?

1. Sardines. I know that this sounds crazy that sardines would be the first thing on my escape list, but when having good protein sources is key to your hormone balance (aka calm moods!) it's tough to bring a roasted chicken or some grass fed beef burgers when you have no refrigeration or a working stove. (Air tight packs or easy-open cans of salmon or tuna work well too.)


2. Nut butter. I have learned the hard way that you can't bring full jars of natural nut butter on an airplane. The oil that rises to the top is a liquid red flag to the TSA crew. What you can bring is small packs of nut butter or make nut butter sandwiches on Ezekiel bread, or flaxseed crakers. Bags of nuts work too.


3. Fruit. Apples and pears don't need to be refrigerated and come in mother nature's edible wrapper.


4. Trail Mix or Raw Bars. Here are a few good options: Grain Free Paleo Trail Mix: basically any homemade combo of raw or soaked and sprouted nuts and seeds + dried fruit or coconut flakes, Homemade Granola Bars, Didi's Living Granola, Spirulina Energy Bars


5. A sleeping mask. It's tough to sleep with the light pollution of a hotel room. Your cozy sleep-giving hormones like complete darkness, not the light from the clock or that light-crack under the door.


6. Empty stainless steel water bottle. (Fill it when you get through security at the airport or arrive at your new location.)


7. Baby wipes. You know you'll need these for something.

Enjoy your travels. Hopefully your next trip will be to somewhere beautiful, full of adventure, or relaxing. When Tropical Storm Allison hit us in Houston we ran off to Paris. When Hurricane Rita hit Houston we had just moved to Ann Arbor. When Hurricane Ike hit we were in Disney World. This is the first time we didn't just miss the storm for a vacation or a recent move. So, keeping our fingers crossed that this turns out to be just another Drummond family adventure.

Do you want to learn more about naturally balancing your hormones? Hormone balance shows up as having great energy, sound sleep, a youthful sex drive, optimal fertility, and effortless weight loss. Sign up athttp://jessicadrummond.com/ for free guides to Harnessing Your Hormones and Getting Great Energy and to be the first to hear about all of our programs for hormone health and power for girls and women.

Support Your Local Bartender

By Kevin Cintro

There was once a guy who went into a bar with a racehorse. After boozing it up all evening, the bartender was expecting something in return for the impeccable service he had provided the guy all night. He didn't even complain that the steed was taking up three stools and never ordering anything but a sugar cube now-and-again.

At last call, the patron called over the barkeep, "You've been great all night!" The server nodded. That's when the drunk said to him, "I've got a tip for you. Bet on this stallion in the third at Pimlico."

Nice fella.

How to Tip

When you give your bartender a tip, you're showing one of two things: You have no class or you're a real stand-up guy. It's a test of character to leave behind something appropriate for the service. You have a high degree of social grooming even if you're popped off your butt. Since a show of monetary appreciation is a portion of what they get paid by the boss, you want to be a swell and not a swine.

• Tipping well makes you a friend with benefits. They might "conveniently forget" to bill you for a drink. Occasionally a generous server will comp you a little nosh, like some wings.

• It all depends where you are, but most bartenders make ends meet by their tips. Some of the bigger clubs even have bartenders working gratis just for the privilege of having the name of the place on their resume. Be fair.

• In most places all of the workers pool their tips into the nightly kitty, with the proceeds getting split among everyone. When you fail to show your appreciation to the servers, you're not hurting the boss. You're punching the folks who do a lion's share of the work. If you are getting bad service, not reason to splurge. Simply ask to see the manager in private, explaining your dissatisfaction. That will put the bad actor on the S-List of the manager. They will share words. Things will get better if you are ever stuck with the same lame player again.

• A buck a drink is fine, unless you order a monster like a Long Island Ice Tea. That's a pretty complicated cocktail to mix. The barkeep definitely deserves more than a dollar for this concoction. Mixed drinks should usually rank in the two-dollar range. But again, if you're ordering a Lemon Drop, don't be a cheapskate.

• Let's say you get comped for a couple of drinks? The tip should be based on what you would have paid for it if you didn't get it for free.

• Keep cool if it's your first drink at the bar. Things are going to take a touch longer, especially if there is a luxury liner full of other patrons. Same holds true for shift changes. Patience, please.

• The service sucks. Pay for your drink, leave a modest tip and find another establishment where the servers are not puking attitude all over the customers.

• Pay when the drink arrives. Have the money on the bar. Or a credit card. Want to ring-up a tab? Use the plastic.

• Over-tipping at a regular place will really make the help remember you. Anything over 10-bucks for a snack or a mixed drink indelibly etches your face in their mind. You have now made a best friend. One that controls the liquor cabinet.

• There are folks who tip at the beginning of the evening. Just make sure that it's not shift-change time or you'll need to engage in double-tipping. Going out with a bunch of people you hope to loan you some money so you can start-up a new business? Right off the bat, fold a 50-spot (or more) into the palm of your hand. Summon over the bartender, exchange a handshake and let the dinero go. That way, no matter who pays the bill, the server will know you're the best. Blow 'em a kiss, and say good night, Gracie.

Kevin Cintro has a history of billiards, darts and football, which is what lead him to writer for houston pool hall. With eighteen locations over two states, Fast Eddie's has become known as the ideal Sports Tavern and Social Club. After all at Fast Eddie's, "Life is Meant to Be Good"!

The Appeal of Organic Natural Foods

By Larry E Kierstead

Organic natural foods have been growing in popularity over the last few years as more and more Americans seek out healthier choices for their families. The methods used to grow, handle, and produce organic products are in themselves inherently natural. There are no synthetic chemicals used, no genetic modifications, and no hormones or antibiotics. For many individuals concerned about what their families are eating organic can seem tremendously appealing.

For consumers who are also eco-conscious, buying organic and natural foods relieves the stress of worrying about chemicals, pesticide residue, and their damaging effects on the environment. For others, a choice to make the move to organic is the first step towards a healthier lifestyle overall. These foods may be more expensive in the outset, but long-term benefits could far outweigh initial costs, considering the bill attached to modern medical treatments and prescription medication.

There is also some frightening evidence that conventional farming methods do cause physiological harm in individuals. Studies conducted by Columbia University, University of California, Berkley, and the Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan found some disturbing effects in pregnant women who were exposed to higher levels of organophosphates. The scientists identified the women then studied their children from birth through the first few years of school.

The children of these women were found to have, on average, a lower I. Q. than their peers. The potential that this study represents is terrifying. There is further evidence that organochlorides, another compound commonly found in pesticides, may cause thyroid problems such as hypoechogenicity and nodules. Buildup of the synthetic compounds used in these products are also believed to contain carcinogenic properties, and even have a pronounced neurotoxicity.

The EPA tests for the effects of the chemical compounds in pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers. However, their testing period is commonly only four days, which fails to take into account the accumulated effects these chemicals could have. Endosulfan, a pesticide allowed by EPA standards and commonly used in the United States, is a neurotoxin that has been banned entirely in several other countries.

Independent studies using amphibians, animals with a well-known sensitivity to changes in the environment, found the toxicity levels in endosulfan to be fatal in nearly every instance after the typical four day period used by the EPA. With alarming cases such as these becoming more widespread in association with conventional foods it is no wonder that the average consumer is finding organic natural foods more and more appealing.

Omakase Provides A Whole New Sushi Experience

By Warren Ransom

Japanese sushi has become quite popular in many areas of the US. Sushi consists of fresh pieces of (usually) raw sea food together with other ingredients such as rice and presented in unique and delicious ways. For people who have come to enjoy sushi, omakase can offer them an entirely unique sushi experience.

The word "omakase" means, quite literally, to entrust yourself to the chef. You are placing the choice of ingredients and presentation in the hand of the sushi chef, called an itamae. In some of the lesser quality sushi eating establishments, this could result in a mixed platter of recognizable items or items the itamae is actually trying to get out of his kitchen. Nonetheless, in the better sushi restaurants, one will certainly be presented with the freshest seasonal items that might have never been considered as well as traditional favorites featured in innovative and intriguing ways.

The sushi chef should be attentive to you when choosing the items and preparation. For instance, you may order a plate of omakase while specifying that no mackerel be used. You should still get a premium quality blend of different types of fish and varying presentations, but no mackerel should be on the plate. Some chefs who have gotten to know you will actually already understand your preferences and be able to adjust his presentation based on your likes and dislikes, so befriending your itamae is a great way to ensure you have the best experience.

Some individuals think that it is advisable to go to a sushi restaurant where they are known to the itamae. When this is the case, they feel that they will only be presented with items the chef knows they will appreciate. However, to honestly take pleasure in the experience, it does not matter if the particular person is known to the chef or not as he will still be utilizing fresh, distinct items that one might not have ever considered trying or might not have encountered at some point in the past.

It is very feasible that your plate will include items you have never considered trying or presentations which you do not find appealing. While it is deemed poor conduct to leave food on the plate, you are not being pressured to eat something unappetizing. However, in the event that you have requested this as a means to try something new and diverse, you might take into consideration at least trying each different variety of sushi offered. You could very well find some new favorites hiding there, as seasonal items may only be available for short periods of time.

Restaurants like it when customers order omakase often. They can charge a higher price for the dinner because it highlights not just the very best of ingredients available at that moment, but the skills of the itamae too. This also makes it easier for them to plan food expenses into their purchasing.

Itamaes enjoy preparing this because it gives them a chance to express their ingenuity. Creating an omakase meal is the same as creating a masterwork in the art world to the chef. He will work harder to ensure the diner gets an experience that will be unforgettable with his choices of ingredients and presentations. In fact, many diners have been inspired to take photographs of their meal before eating because the presentation was so beautiful.

It is a well recognized fact that the Japanese are a people who place high value on honor. When one puts his confidence in the itamae to select the meal and how it will be presented, one extends to him a great honor. Most will put only their best efforts into preparing a meal for patrons who have honored them in this fashion. Even familiar items will be handled with more care and a focus to detail.

Omakase is the greatest expression of trust to a sushi chef. It is also the opportunity for one who enjoys sushi to expand horizons and try new tastes. This may not be the meal choice for one who is set in his ways or does not like trying new things. However, it can heighten the experience for the ones who already enjoy sushi or entice some who have never tried sushi to consider it. Diners are assured they will be served the best and freshest of ingredients available, including seasonal offerings they might have never considered trying in the past. The presentation is certain to take the dining experience to a completely new level, with most itamaes putting additional effort into crafting a meal that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

If you are interested in omakase and other information about sushi and sashimi, please check out The Sushi FAQ at http://www.sushifaq.com.

Eating Tomatoes Can Help Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes

By Annalee Chambers

Heart disease and strokes are leading causes of death and permanent disability each year. They are responsible for hundreds of thousands of adults needlessly losing their lives each year. Thousands of adults also become partially or totally disabled after a having a heart attack or stroke. The risks of having a heart or stroke can be reduced by lifestyle changes. A few risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and circulation problems all of which diets play a major part. Consequently, many of these deaths and disabilities could be prevented or reduced by eliminating the consumption of foods which are known to increase the risks of any of these conditions and increasing the consumption of health promoting foods.

One food that excels in promoting heart health is tomatoes. Tomatoes are remarkable in their ability to positively affect heart health. They are among the most popular foods consumed which contain a wide range of health-promoting benefits. There are thousands of varieties of tomatoes available all over the world. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. They range from small cherry tomatoes to large beefsteak tomatoes. There are standard varieties and even heirloom tomatoes. They are available in various colors such as yellow, orange, green and red.

Tomatoes are acclaimed for the heart health benefits they provide. Tomatoes are known to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. They have also been shown to help prevent unwanted clumping together of the platelet cells in the blood. This is a very important factor in lowering the risk of heart problems like atherosclerosis. They have also been shown to reduce stroke risk.

Tomatoes are known for their high antioxidant content. They contain a very rich concentration of the potent antioxidant, lycopene which is the red pigment in tomatoes. Lycopene has the ability to neutralize free radicals that can damage cells in the body. Lycopene excels as the most effective antioxidant promoter of heart health. Lycopene may have specific properties that enable it to protect cells in a way other antioxidants may not. Sufficient levels of lycopene have been shown to lessen the chances of those suffering an ischemic stroke. This type of stroke is caused by a blood clot and it is the most common type of stroke. Tomatoes also contain phytonutrients which support heart health. Additionally, they also contain high amounts of vitamin C, potassium, iron, manganese, beta-carotene and vitamin E.

Those seeking to increase their chances of having a heart attack or stroke should include tomatoes or tomato products in their diets on a daily basis or at least several times each week. Choose from a wide variety of fresh tomatoes. canned tomatoes, tomato juice, tomato sauces, sundried tomatoes and other varieties of tomato products. You can see that by simply choosing to each heart healthy foods such as tomatoes on a regular basis you can significantly reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. This is the reason it is so important to include heart healthy foods in your diet.

Please go to Truckingsos.com to read more articles about healthy living and truck driver issues such as strokes and heart healthy foods.

Annalee Chambers is a trucking industry veteran. She is also knowledgeable about health and natural healing modalities.

(c)copyright- Annalee Chambers All Rights Reserved Worldwide

Halal Buffet Dinner - What You Need To Know

By Arnel Y Colar

Regardless of any event, the food served is important, and it should be taken into consideration. If most of the guests are Muslims, Halal buffet dinner is a must. Halal foods are allowed under the Islamic dietary guidelines. When it is not fit for dietary consumption, Muslims call it as Haram. Which means Muslim followers are not allowed to consume the following:

Pork
Pork and pork by-products are not allowed for Muslims to consume. In any buffet catering event, especially when there are Muslim guests, these guests should have plenty of options other than consuming pork-based dishes.

Animals that are dead before it is slaughtered 
According to the teachings of Allah dead meat is forbidden regardless if it is a sea or land animal. It is considered impure to their religion and should not be consumed at all costs.

Animals not slaughtered properly
When slaughtering animals, it should be done in a way that the four main arteries: jugular artery, jugular vein, food pipe, and windpipe are cut off completely. It's not enough if the arteries just split open, so it must cut off the neck.

Blood
Consuming blood is considered impure in Muslim, so ensure that the food is cleansed off any blood before cooking. Be certain that the foods are properly cooked because meats that are not cooked well enough can still have blood in it.

Alcoholic Drinks 
Alcoholic drinks are considered Haram because the process of fermentation is seen us unethical because it produces intoxicants. This is no exception to cuisines that were prepared with alcoholic drinks.

Selecting Halal Caterers 
Catering services facilitators should be well aware of the people attending the event and know the most common choice of food. Professional Halal caterers adhere to Islamic and Muslim dietary laws; therefore, it is important the buffet catering services provider is fully competent in dealing with Muslim laws to have a great Halal buffet dinner.

Ensure that the company is Halal-compliant. All meat should be in compliant with the Islamic law. The caterer is only allowed to buy meat that has been slaughtered by cutting the throat. Meats should not be carrion and should contain no blood when served.

Another important factor in selecting Halal caterers is that the foods should not contain any pork product. Other than pork meat, a Halal buffet diner should not contain pork fat when frying food. It is considered cross-contamination when tools and machines were previously used with pork products.

There is no point in hiring a caterer that does not adhere to Halal guidelines. Gather all the necessary information available in the chosen Halal caterers. Don't risk having food served with non-Halal caterers and those that do not offer the things needed for the event. It will only get expensive in the long run.

Check prices and compare it with the budget for the event. Some Halal buffet dinner may be too expensive others come very cheap. It is essential to narrow down the choices to get the ones that offer the right services at the right price.

When choosing a Halal caterer for a Halal buffet dinner, talk with these Halal catering providers and listen to their proposals. Most are happy to provide the things needed for a specific Halal buffet dinner that meets your taste and requirements. Ask for food samples to be sure that it is the right taste you need.