Another aspect of cost savings from stocking up is bulk purchase. This can take that percentage up even higher. With a stocked pantry I don't have to buy during shortages, whether due to actual shortage or from panic buying. When the next crop of rice hits the market and the price is stable I can buy again. Since I had a years supply before the rice "shortage" I don't need to buy right now. I can do the same with all of the staples and realize an investment gain on grocerys rather than a burden from shortages. I have done this for years and don't consider it "hoarding" but commodity investments!