There you are checking out your fridge and realize you have to throw away a whole bunch of produce that went bad again! Isn’t that the worst? You had every intention of eating really healthy and bought a ton of fresh vegetables the last time you were at the grocery store…-*yada yada yada…you had a really crazy week with Little Caesars thrown in the mix somewhere in there and here you are about to throw away a bunch of produce. We’ve all been there.

Well, here is a new idea. Next time you go shopping, stock up on these foods that naturally have a long shelf life. Heaven knows there are a ton of junky food options that can sit on the shelf forever—but we want healthy foods that are readily available. So next time you shop, stock up on these pantry staples and maybe buy a little less fresh produce if you have the same problem I do far too often.

Almonds

Almonds are filled with monosaturated fatty acids, and they're a great source of vitamin E and fiber. According to Fruit and Veggies More Matters, they can last for up to one year when stored in the refrigerator. Pack them for an afternoon snack or use them to make your own almond milk.

Brown Rice

Packed with fiber, vitamin E, and a variety of antioxidants, (unopened) brown rice can last for one year at room temperature. After it has been opened it should stay good for about six months.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are packed with fiber and calcium, and have been linked to lower blood pressure. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for up to one year.

Dates

The only naturally "dehydrated" fruit, fiber-rich dates are a nutritious way to enhance a savory recipe or sweeten up a smoothie. They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several months, or refrigerated for up to one year.

Nut Butters

Filled with protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, nut butters can last at room temperature for nine months unopened (once opened, they'll stay good for three months). Look for jars with short ingredient lists and zero added trans fats.

Dried Beans

Unlike canned beans, which are often stored in sodium, dried beans are free of additives and preservatives. They're also an excellent, cholesterol-free source of protein, and can last for up to two years in the pantry.

Oats

Oats are an excellent source of fiber, help to keep cholesterol in check, and contain vitamins, minerals, and even some protein. Unopened containers can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to four months, according to the Whole Grains Council.

Olive Oil

An excellent source of monounsaturated fats, olive oil is great drizzled onto toast, or used when roasting veggies. An unopened bottle will keep at room temperature for one year, and once it's been opened it will keep for six months.

Quinoa

Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, meaning it's a "complete protein," and it will keep for up to four months in the pantry. Pack the fiber-rich grain into a burrito or mix it into a salad.

Winter Squash

From acorn to butternut to delicata, winter squash (and pumpkins!) can stay fresh for up to three months when stored in a cool, dry area away from sunlight. A good source of vitamin C, try roasting wedges of squash or blending it into a soup.