The Best Foods to Stockpile for an Emergency

The best foods to stock to prepare for a natural disaster is a useful list, because it will help people know what they need to buy and what they should avoid.

Some common misconceptions about food stockpiles are that you need to stockpile cans of food, but most canned foods expire after a year or two. 

Organic foods are more expensive than regular groceries, which is why some people may think that organic food is not worth the cost. However, organic food will last much longer than its counterpart and have less preservatives inside. That means when an emergency happens and the power goes out for days or weeks at a time, you won't have anything spoiled in your cupboards to eat.

Why Eat Differently During an Emergency?

Fueling your body during an emergency or survival situation is very different from a normal diet. To make your emergency plan work, you should get most of your energy from high-protein foods that are rich in fat and carbohydrates. When emergencies happen and it's difficult to eat healthily and take care of yourself, you should know that some foods will help you regain your strength faster. For example, if the emergency is disease-related, it's important to eat foods that will maintain good health or keep you in better shape. With a limited supply of food in your emergency preparedness kit, the more high-quality food you eat (and less of it), the better.

In a disaster or emergency, people will want to eat anything. This includes calories, nutrients, and fiber. Though it might not be your ideal mealtime, these nutrients and fiber help to maintain an average diet.

What to Always Keep in Your Kitchen

Listed below are some food items that are perfect for hurricanes or other natural disasters. Items like these can be stored away safely and hidden, whether it is hurricane season. And make sure you buy an opener to get those jars open.

Peanut butter

For a healthy breakfast, there's a lot to love about peanut butter. It's full of good fats and protein, so you don't need to worry about refrigerating it afterwards. It is is an essential item to always have in your kitchen. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast to dinner. Peanut butter is also a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal snack or meal accompaniment. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something to add flavor to your meals, peanut butter should always be on hand. Keep it stocked in your kitchen so you’ll never be without this delicious and nutritious staple!

Whole-wheat crackers

Crackers are a great replacement for bread and are perfect for making sandwiches. Whole-wheat & whole grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than other types of crackers, but the extra fiber is worth it! Have you ever thought about vacuum-packing crackers to prolong their freshness?

For added value, consider purchasing a family-sized pack of 100% whole grain Wheat Thins. These toasted crackers give a bit more of a healthful kick and they're also made without high fructose corn syrup.

Nuts and trail mixes

Stock up on these high-energy foods—they're healthy and perfect for snacking in emergencies. Items to look for include vacuum-packed containers, which prevent the nuts from oxidizing and keep them fresh.

Cereal

Make sure to buy cereal that comes in a single-serving bag, so you don't end up with stale cereal

Granola bars and power bars

They're an excellent source of carbohydrates. You can get more energy from carbohydrates without tons of food. With 12 individually wrapped bars in 3 different flavors, these variety packs will provide a lot of tasty options. What's more, their 16 grams of whole grains per serving make them perfect for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins

If you are craving something healthy, instead of reaching for a banana or an apple to get your potassium and fiber, go for dried fruits. "Dried fruits offer significant amounts of nutrients and calories," says Swanson.

Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey

Canned meats generally have a shelf life of up to two years. Vacuum-packed portions can last at least half that long, but it really depends on the brand. This product is Vacuum sealed and has no need for a can-opener. 

Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas

If you can't access the real thing, canned food may be ideal since it contains the same essential nutrients. This is also a great option for those in areas where storms or disasters have occurred. To pack in as many vitamins and minerals as possible, order a case of mixed vegetable cans by Libby's. You'll find peas, carrots, corn, lima beans, and green beans in each can - these are healthy ingredients that provide you with a well-balanced meal.

Dry pasta and pasta sauces

Pasta is a carb-heavy, gluten-full food, but it can be convenient and filling. There are even gluten free versions of pasta if you are looking for something more specialized.

Try to stock at least a three-day supply—you need one gallon per person per day. An active person should drink HALF A GALLON each day. The other half gallon is for adding to food and washing dishes or clothes, lost water in cooking, etc.

To keep everyone hydrated and healthy, make sure to purchase bottled water that contains essential minerals. 

Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade

Sports drinks contain electrolytes and carbohydrates to help you stay hydrated. But remember that the sugar content in these drinks can add up - watch for artificial sweeteners too. A good way to replenish after a workout is with a drink like Nooma. It's an organic electrolyte-enhanced drink made with coconut water and natural sea salt which comes in 4 different flavours.

Multivitamins

Supplements can be a great way to replace the nutrients you would have gotten when on a diet. But they don't need to taste bad. The gummy comes with a complete days’ worth of vitamins and even contains omega 3s and folate for complete coverage.

What to Buy Right Before an Emergency

With hurricane season fast approaching, you may be wondering about some of the food items that do not have long-term storage capabilities. If you're given a warning, there's still time to pick up these items from the grocery store before disaster strikes. These foods are great to buy if you're always on-the-go, and they last long enough to give you a fresh option in between trips to the grocery store. Swing by your local farmers' market if it's open. You'll get produce that is fresher than what you can find at a regular supermarket, which will extend the life of your fruit and veggies. 

Ready-to-eat canned goods: These commercially canned goods are already cooked and require no preparation. They also have a much longer shelf-life than foods that require refrigeration or freezing.

Dried pasta: This is easy to store, lasts for years and can be used with sauces to create meals. 

Canned tuna: These cans of fish are rich in protein and provide omega 3s which are great for brain health. They also don’t need to be cooked.

Seeds: These seeds can be planted when there's room on the ground or even inside a pot on your windowsill at home if you want to get creative with your space! These seeds can produce fresh produce like salad greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, peas, etc.

Canned beans: These cans of beans are great for easy vegetarian meals and can also be used as a side dish or in soups.

Canned fruit: These cans of fruit are an excellent way to get a lot of healthy vitamins in your diet when you don't have much access to fresh produce. They can be eaten straight from the can or fresh fruit on top!