my initial venture (this year) into long term food storage, was with the less expensive bulk staples...many were less than $1 per pound

rice
pinto and white beans
pasta
cocoa mix
salt
tea
instant mashed potatoes
pop corn
boullion cubes
dried spices

I plan on adding some higher cost, or more protein in the near future

honey
powdered milk
powdered eggs
possibly some TVP

I hope to get some through LDS's Provident Living outreach... already canned