5 Reasons to Invest in an Emergency Seed Bank

It’s not something that most of us like to think about, but we, as a society, are completely dependent upon a working infrastructure for our basic dietary needs. But what would happen should that infrastructure suddenly collapse? How would we survive if we couldn’t make our weekly trip to the supermarket? These are questions that many Americans have asked themselves, and one of the best solutions available is to simply cut out the middle man. By growing our own food, we can limit our dependence upon a fragile system, and provide for ourselves and our families in the event of an emergency. Thus, an emergency seed bank should be a necessary part of any well-stocked food storage. Here are five other reasons to invest in an emergency seed bank.

1. They store easily

Most of us don’t have a huge amount of space in which to keep our emergency food supply. At the same time, there are certain essentials, such as water, that tend to take up quite a bit of room. Seeds, on the other hand, can be kept easily in the smallest of areas. And although the seeds will last longer if refrigerated, doing so is not absolutely necessary.

2. They’re inexpensive

Given the potential amount of food that each seed could produce, and the ability of these foods to produce their own seeds for future use, there really isn’t any from of food storage that is more cost effective than a seed bank. In fact, if you’re thinking about starting your own emergency food supply, but are daunted by the prospective cost, then an emergency seed bank is a great first step to take. Check around online and with local suppliers so that you’re able to get the seeds you need, for the best possible price.

3. They’re healthy

Things like canned goods and dehydrated foods tend to be high in salt or other preservatives, so that they’ll last longer. At the same time, many emergency foods have been known to lose some of their nutrients over time. On the other hand, the produce that comes from your emergency seed bank will provide all of the benefits that you would expect from fresh fruit and vegetables, thus helping you keep yourself and your family healthy—because a healthy family is a happy one.

4. They taste great

There’s nothing quite like a piece of fresh produce when you’re feeling hungry. Basic food storage items are generally chosen for their ability to last a long time without spoiling, which means that they’re often lacking in the taste department. But when you’re faced with bland or stale emergency food, a fresh tomato or a mouthful of succulent corn can easily make all the difference.

5. They can be used right now

Why wait for an emergency? You can enjoy your seed bank right now by starting a garden, and simply saving the seeds from your crop. This will not only give you a jumpstart on getting things going (food takes some time to grow, you know), but will also allow you to reap the benefits of fresh grown fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and starches right now!

Sure, it’s important to have a variety of different foods in your food storage, and things such as canned goods, non-perishables, and dehydrated or freeze-dried meals are essential additions for any prepper, but as you stock up on flour and rice, don’t forget about your seeds. Set aside a portion of your yard (or design a portable potted garden), read up on the best gardening techniques, and get planting. An emergency seed bank may not only help you survive a potential disaster, but to actually do so in comfort and health.