Staple Foods

Basic survival foods are the best solution for stocking up on energy during an expedition. These foods have multiple advantages for everyone, whether you practise outdoor activities or not. Looking to get some? On our FREEZEDRIED & CO website, you can discover a variety of staple foods for better expeditions and better experiences.

Basic survival foods

By "staple food", we mean "unprocessed foods". These include breads, dairy products, eggs, meats, vegetables, and much more. In other words, they are foods that make up a complete meal. We call them survival foods because they are the ideal solution for outdoor expeditions. In the event of a natural disaster leading to an emergency situation, expeditioners can always eat and stay hydrated without difficulty.

For a food to meet survival requirements, it needs to be freeze-dried. Logically, a freeze-dried food is one that has undergone the freeze-drying process.

Freeze-drying is a highly effective food preservation method. It involves first freezing the food, then dehydrating it to remove all its water content. It is considered a revolution in food preservation, as it is the only process that allows food to be kept for several decades. The foods are preserved and free from mould, retaining their natural flavours and nutritional values — everything an expeditioner needs.

It is worth noting that food loses its weight and shape when dehydrated. However, there is no need to worry — once rehydrated (with hot or cold water), the food regains its original shape and aroma.

This technology delivers the best results in food preservation (particularly for snacks).

What types of food can be freeze-dried?

If we consider the principle of freeze-drying, we can deduce that the higher a food's water content, the better suited it is to preservation by this method. Water is therefore the key factor in ensuring successful freeze-drying. As a result, virtually all foods can be freeze-dried, except those that are too sugary, too salty, or too fatty. Honey and oil, for example, contain no water and therefore cannot be freeze-dried.

Foods that frequently undergo this process include fruits (lightly sweetened), vegetables, meat, fish, coffee, cheese, and more.

We offer a wide range of freeze-dried products to broaden your horizons and introduce you to new experiences. We have something for every taste, at a price that suits your budget. Below, we detail a selection of freeze-dried foods.

Meat and eggs

In this range, you will find canned meat and powdered eggs. The latter can be rehydrated and are perfect for making breakfasts or baked goods. The meat will complement your savoury meals perfectly. These two nutrients provide a significant intake of fats and proteins — exactly what your body needs to power through an expedition.

We offer diced chicken from the brand Fuel Your Preparation. It comes in a tin of 24 servings with a 25-year shelf life, providing 491 kcal per 100 g. Also discover the Cooked Minced Beef, also available in 24 servings.

Starches and vegetables

This includes freeze-dried purees, carrots, cereals, and peas, packaged in pouches or tins. Foods packaged in pouches can be stored for up to 5 years. Those in tins, however, can be kept for between 15 and 25 years. It is worth noting that shelf life also varies depending on the brand.

Vegetables and starches are perfect for replenishing your vitamins. To enjoy these products and top up your energy levels, simply rehydrate them by adding hot or cold water. You can then savour delicious vegetable soups.

Dairy products

Packaged in pouches and tins, these freeze-dried products are essential food staples. Examples include powdered butter, milk, and grated parmesan. Their preparation method, as you may have guessed, is incredibly straightforward. Simply rehydrate with hot or cold water and they are ready to eat.

This type of food is very lightweight and easy to handle. Powdered butter and milk can be stored for 10 to 15 years. However, grated parmesan can only be stored for 2 years. That said, you can sprinkle it over your snacks to give them a perfect finishing touch.

Breads and biscuits

These are staple foods, packaged in vacuum-sealed tins, with a shelf life of up to 15 years. This range includes wholemeal breads, rye breads, honey sesame bars, cakes, and more. These foods do not need to be rehydrated or heated. They are ready to eat straight from the packaging.

Benefits of basic survival foods for athletes

Outdoor activities demand considerable energy from participants. To keep energy levels up, you need to eat well. The longer the expedition, the greater the food supplies required. freeze dried food is therefore an option that benefits you on multiple levels.

This type of food is virtually weightless and easy to pack in a travel bag. It also has a very long shelf life, depending on the production date. Simply make sure to keep the packaging hermetically sealed.

The nutritional value of the product is preserved and even enhanced. Your expedition requires foods that provide protein to combat muscle fatigue. Since freeze-drying causes minimal damage to food, its nutritional values are retained.

All these foods are designed to keep you self-sufficient, especially in an emergency. The tins contain multiple servings, keeping you and your group or family safe from hunger.