Freeze Dried Beef for Emergency Prepping

In-Depth Review of Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can – Emergency Food Supply, Everyday Meals, 13 Servings

When it comes to emergency preparedness or stocking up on long-lasting pantry essentials, freeze-dried foods are among the most popular choices. These foods offer both convenience and longevity, two essential factors when you're planning for the future. Augason Farms is a brand that has been consistently delivering high-quality emergency food supplies, and their Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can is one of their standout products. It promises to provide a ready-to-go source of beef steak, packed with protein and nutrients for a variety of meal options. But how well does this product perform, especially when compared to other freeze-dried offerings on the market? Let’s dive in and see how it stacks up.

Overview of the Product

The Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can is a food supply item designed primarily for emergency preparedness, long-term storage, or just as a convenient pantry staple for everyday meals. The can contains 13 servings of precooked, freeze-dried beef steak dices, which are perfect for situations where fresh beef is unavailable or when you want an easy, protein-packed addition to your meals without the need for refrigeration or freezing.

Packaging and Shelf Life

One of the main selling points of Augason Farms' products is the packaging. The beef steak comes in a sturdy, sealed can that ensures a long shelf life—up to 25 years if stored properly. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to build an emergency food supply or simply reduce food waste by having long-lasting, ready-to-eat options available at any time.

The can itself is compact and easy to store, with clear labeling that makes it simple to identify and access when needed. Additionally, the can is lightweight compared to some of the bulkier emergency food storage solutions, which means you won’t have to sacrifice too much space if you're storing multiple cans.

Nutritional Value and Ingredients

Each serving of the Freeze Dried Beef Steak Dices provides approximately 20 grams of protein per serving, which makes it a great source of protein for a variety of meal options, including tacos, stews, salads, and stir-fries. The meat is precooked, which means you don’t need to worry about lengthy cooking times, just adding water to rehydrate the steak and incorporating it into your dishes.

As far as ingredients go, Augason Farms Freeze Dried Beef Steak Dices consists of beef, and some cans may include a small amount of seasoning to enhance the flavor. There are no preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors, making it a relatively clean and natural option for those who are looking for straightforward, simple ingredients. It's also gluten-free and suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, including people on keto or paleo diets, since it’s essentially just beef and seasoning.

Taste and Texture

A big question with freeze-dried meats is: how does it taste? The short answer is: surprisingly good. While it’s never going to taste exactly like fresh, seared steak, Augason Farms Freeze Dried Beef Steak Dices do a solid job of rehydrating and maintaining a satisfying texture. When you follow the directions and add the appropriate amount of water, the beef dices soften and take on a more “meaty” consistency. They don't become mushy or overly soft, which is a common issue with some lower-quality freeze-dried meats.

The flavor is also noteworthy. While it’s not exactly like fresh beef steak, it does have a rich, savory taste that is reminiscent of beef jerky or pre-cooked roast beef. The seasoning used is subtle but effective, providing just enough flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the beef itself.

Advantages of Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can

1. Long Shelf Life

   • One of the standout features of this product is its impressive shelf life of up to 25 years. For those looking to prepare for emergencies or uncertain times, this can is a reliable option that can be stored and forgotten about, only to be remembered when needed. Whether you’re using it for camping trips, a long-term emergency stash, or regular meal prep, the shelf life is unbeatable.

2. Convenience

   • Unlike fresh beef, which requires refrigeration, and unlike freeze-dried products that require complex preparation or cooking, Augason Farms' beef steak dices are ready to go with minimal effort. Simply rehydrate with hot water and you have a tasty protein option that can be incorporated into many meals. No cooking, no fuss.

3. High Protein Content

   • With 20 grams of protein per serving, this product is a good source of protein, which is essential in emergency or survival situations. Protein is vital for maintaining energy, muscle mass, and overall health, making this product a great option for anyone looking to increase their protein intake.

4. Versatile Use

   • The freeze-dried beef steak dices are versatile in terms of meal preparation. Whether you’re adding it to soups, salads, burritos, casseroles, or even just serving it as a quick snack, it integrates well into many recipes. For everyday use or during an emergency, this versatility can be a major benefit.

5. Quality and Taste

   • The product excels in its flavor and texture for a freeze-dried offering. While it's not the same as fresh beef steak, the rehydrated beef dices do a great job of maintaining a meaty consistency, with enough flavor to make them an enjoyable meal addition. The beef is tender, not rubbery or chewy, which is a common complaint with lower-quality freeze-dried meats.

6. Space-Saving and Easy to Store

   • The compact packaging makes this product easy to store in your pantry, a bug-out bag, or even in small spaces. It doesn't take up a lot of room, and the can is sturdy and not prone to puncturing, which helps protect the food inside.

7. Gluten-Free and Clean Ingredients

   • For individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences, the Augason Farms beef steak dices offer a gluten-free option that is made with clean, simple ingredients. It’s free of preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a relatively natural option compared to some other emergency food brands.

Disadvantages of Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can

1. Price

   • While Augason Farms products are generally considered affordable for long-term emergency food storage, the price per can for freeze-dried beef can be on the higher side. If you are looking to stock up on large quantities of meat, the cost could add up quickly, especially considering the amount of beef per can (13 servings). For larger families or those looking to build a significant supply, this might not be the most cost-effective option unless purchased in bulk.

2. Flavor May Not Appeal to Everyone

   • While the taste of the beef steak dices is generally well-received, it might not be to everyone's liking. Some people may prefer fresh beef or might find the flavor too different from what they are used to. Also, it’s important to note that the beef has a slightly jerky-like texture, which might not be suitable for all palates.

3. Limited Serving Size

   • The can provides 13 servings, which may not be sufficient for larger households or those who are looking to use the product as a main course for a family meal. For larger quantities or for feeding a crowd, you may need multiple cans. This could make it less practical for some people.

4. Not Fully Ready to Eat

   • While the product is precooked, it is still freeze-dried, which means it requires water and some time to rehydrate. For individuals in urgent situations where convenience is a must, this step may feel like a hindrance compared to fully cooked, ready-to-eat meals. However, this is a minor issue in most circumstances.

Common Questions About Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices

1. Can I eat this product without rehydrating it?

• No, the freeze-dried beef needs to be rehydrated with hot water before consumption. It is precooked, but it still requires rehydration to achieve the proper texture and flavor.

2. How much water should I add to rehydrate the beef?

• The instructions recommend adding about 1/2 cup of hot water per serving. However, depending on your preferred texture, you might want to adjust the amount slightly.

3. Is it safe for long-term storage?

• Yes, when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, the product can last up to 25 years. The can is sealed to protect it from moisture, pests, and air.

4. Does it contain any allergens?

• The beef itself is gluten-free and contains no preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors. However, as with any food product, it's always best to read the ingredient list and allergen information on the label to ensure it aligns with your specific dietary needs.

Conclusion

The Augason Farms Freeze Dried Precooked Beef Steak Dices Can is a reliable, convenient, and tasty option for those who need long-term food storage or simply want to add some variety to their pantry. With its long shelf life, ease of use, high protein content, and versatility in meal preparation, it's a solid choice for emergency food supplies, camping trips, or busy households. While it may not be the most cost-effective choice for everyone, especially if you need large quantities of meat, its quality and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for many.

In short, Augason Farms continues to deliver with this well-rounded product that balances taste, convenience, and nutritional value for both everyday use and emergency preparedness. Whether you're an experienced prepper or just looking to stock your pantry with some reliable, no-fuss protein, the Freeze Dried Beef Steak Dices can is worth considering.