Building an Emergency Food Supply
When it comes to surviving natural disasters, proper food storage and preparation are critical. Long-term food storage for natural disasters is essential to ensure that you and your family have enough food to survive for an extended period. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about building an emergency food supply.
Recommended Quantities of Food Per Person Per Day
While the amount of food needed per person per day may vary depending on age, gender, and activity level, there are general guidelines to follow. According to the Loma Linda University Health, a three-day supply of emergency food that doesn't require refrigeration, cooking, or a lot of water to prepare is recommended.
Consider adding the following canned and dried foods to your emergency food supply:
- Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
- Protein or fruit bars
- Dry cereal or granola
- Peanut butter
- Dried fruit and nuts
- Crackers
- Canned juices
- Non-perishable pasteurized milk
- High energy foods
- Vitamins
- Food for infants
- Comfort/stress foods
Bulk Staples to Store
Storing bulk staples is an excellent way to ensure you have enough food to last a long time. According to the University of Georgia Extension, bulk staples like rice, pasta, and flour can last up to 30 years when stored properly.
Canned and Dried Foods to Store
Canned and dried foods are excellent options for emergency food storage. According to BePrepared.com, canned and dried foods can last up to 25 years when stored properly.
Vitamin and Protein Supplements to Store
Vitamin and protein supplements are essential for maintaining good health during emergencies. According to the University of Georgia Extension, it's recommended to store a multivitamin and mineral supplement, as well as a protein supplement like whey powder.
Tips for Storing Food Off the Floor in Clean, Dry, Dark Places Away From Moisture
Proper storage is critical to ensure that emergency food supplies last as long as possible. According to the University of Georgia Extension, it's recommended to store emergency food supplies off the floor in clean, dry, dark places away from moisture. This can be accomplished by using shelves or risers to keep food elevated off the ground.
Purchasing Emergency Food
In the event of a natural disaster, having an emergency food supply can be a lifesaver. However, building an emergency food supply from scratch can be a daunting task, especially if you're not sure what to buy. Fortunately, there are several reputable companies that offer emergency food supplies. In this section, we'll cover some of the best options available.
Prep SOS's Emergency Food and Preparedness Products
Prep SOS offers a wide range of emergency food and preparedness products, including storage cans, freeze dryers, generators, and water filtration products. They only carry trusted brands and have a team of experts available to answer questions. Investing in their products can be crucial during an emergency.
BePrepared.com's Emergency Food Storage Options
BePrepared.com offers emergency food storage options including freeze-dried and dehydrated foods for short-term, long-term, and camping situations. Proper storage conditions and calorie considerations are important for maximum shelf life. Emergency Essentials provides gourmet, high-quality foods for improved quality of life during emergencies.
Benefits of Investing in Trusted Brands During Emergencies
When it comes to emergency food supplies, investing in trusted brands is crucial. According to Prep SOS, trusted brands use high-quality ingredients that are safe to consume and have a long shelf life. In addition, trusted brands are more likely to have been tested and approved by emergency management agencies. If you're unsure which brands to trust, consider consulting with a reputable emergency preparedness company or organization.
Choosing the Right Emergency Food
When it comes to building an emergency food supply, choosing the right food is critical. Not all foods are created equal, and some may not be appropriate for long-term storage. In this section, we'll cover everything you need to know about choosing the right emergency food.
Recommended Types of Food to Store
According to the Loma Linda University Health, the best types of food to store for emergencies are non-perishable, high-energy, and nutrient-dense. These include canned meats, fruits, and vegetables, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, peanut butter, dried fruit and nuts, crackers, canned juices, non-perishable pasteurized milk, high energy foods, vitamins, food for infants, and comfort/stress foods.
Considerations for Choosing Emergency Food
When choosing emergency food, there are several factors to consider. According to the University of Georgia Extension, some of the most important considerations include:
- Familiarity: Choose foods that you and your family like and are used to eating.
- Nutritional value: Choose foods that are nutrient-dense and provide a good balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
- Ease of preparation: Choose foods that are easy to prepare and don't require a lot of water or cooking equipment.
- Shelf-life: Choose foods that have a long shelf life and can be stored for an extended period.
- Specialty items: If you or a family member has special dietary restrictions or preferences, make sure to include appropriate foods in your emergency food supply.
Special Considerations for Those with Dietary Restrictions or Preferences
If you or a family member has special dietary restrictions or preferences, it's important to consider these when building your emergency food supply. According to the Loma Linda University Health, some examples of specialty items include gluten-free foods, low-sodium foods, and vegetarian or vegan options. Make sure to include enough of these items to last for the duration of the emergency.
Storing Emergency Food
Once you've chosen the right emergency food, it's important to store it properly to ensure maximum shelf life. In this section, we'll cover everything you need to know about storing emergency food.
Tips for Storing Emergency Food in Clean, Dry, Dark Places Away From Moisture
Proper storage conditions are critical to ensure that emergency food supplies last as long as possible. According to the University of Georgia Extension, it's recommended to store emergency food supplies off the floor in clean, dry, dark places away from moisture. This can be accomplished by using shelves or risers to keep food elevated off the ground.
Food Storage Containers to Use
When it comes to storing emergency food, the right containers are key. According to BePrepared.com, the best containers for emergency food storage are airtight, moisture-proof, and pest-proof. Examples of suitable containers include:
- Food-grade plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids
- Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers
- Glass jars with tight-fitting lids
Shelf Life of Emergency Food
The shelf life of emergency food can vary depending on the type of food and how it's stored. According to BePrepared.com, freeze-dried and dehydrated foods can last up to 25 years when stored properly. Canned foods can last up to 5 years or longer, depending on the food. Make sure to check expiration dates regularly and rotate your emergency food supply as needed.
Calorie Considerations for Emergency Food Storage
When building an emergency food supply, it's important to consider calorie intake. According to the University of Georgia Extension, the average adult needs approximately 2,000-2,500 calories per day. Make sure to choose foods that provide enough calories to sustain you and your family members for the duration of the emergency.
Safe Handling and Preparation of Emergency Food
During a natural disaster, it's important to handle and prepare emergency food safely to avoid the risk of illness or injury. In this section, we'll cover some tips for safely handling and preparing emergency food.
Tips for Safe Eating and Cooking During Emergencies
According to Real Simple, it's important to follow these tips for safe eating and cooking during emergencies:
- Don't eat food that has been over 40°F for more than two hours.
- Use alternative cooking methods if necessary, such as using a camp stove or outdoor grill.
- Avoid using charcoal or gas grills indoors, as they can produce carbon monoxide.
- Use caution when using candles or other open flames for cooking or lighting.
- Store food at the appropriate temperature, even during power outages.
Special Considerations for Those with Medical Conditions
If you or a family member has a medical condition, it's important to consider this when preparing emergency food. According to the Loma Linda University Health, some examples of special considerations include:
- Diabetes: Make sure to include enough diabetic-friendly foods in your emergency food supply, such as sugar-free snacks and low-glycemic fruits.
- Heart disease: Choose low-sodium foods and avoid foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- Food allergies: Make sure to include appropriate foods in your emergency food supply and avoid any foods that could trigger an allergic reaction.
What to Do with Home-Canned or Jarred Foods Exposed to Flood Waters
If your home-canned or jarred foods have been exposed to flood waters, it's important not to eat them. According to Real Simple, these foods can be contaminated with bacteria or chemicals and can pose a serious health risk. Instead, dispose of them properly and replace them with new emergency food supplies.
Investing in Emergency Food and Preparedness Products
Investing in emergency food and preparedness products can be crucial during a natural disaster. In this section, we'll cover some options for emergency food and preparedness products.
Prep SOS
Prep SOS offers a wide range of emergency food and preparedness products, including storage cans, freeze dryers, generators, and water filtration products. They only carry trusted brands and have a team of experts available to answer questions. Investing in their products can be crucial during an emergency.
BePrepared.com
BePrepared.com offers emergency food storage options including freeze-dried and dehydrated foods for short-term, long-term, and camping situations. They also offer a wide range of preparedness products, such as emergency kits, water storage containers, and first aid supplies. Proper storage conditions and calorie considerations are important for maximum shelf life. Emergency Essentials provides gourmet, high-quality foods for improved quality of life during emergencies.
Building an Emergency Food Supply
Building an emergency food supply can be done by adding extra food to your usual inventory or setting aside a dedicated emergency food supply in a cool, dry, and dark location. According to the Loma Linda University Health, it's recommended to have a three-day supply of emergency food that doesn't require refrigeration, cooking, or a lot of water to prepare after a disaster. However, it's always a good idea to have additional food on hand in case of an extended emergency or supply chain disruption.
Conclusion
Investing in emergency food and preparedness products is an important step in preparing for a natural disaster. By choosing the right emergency food, storing it properly, and following safe handling and preparation guidelines, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever comes your way.
Stay Prepared with Emergency Food
Natural disasters can strike at any time, so it's important to stay prepared with emergency food. By choosing the right emergency food, storing it properly, and following safe handling and preparation guidelines, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever comes your way.
Don't forget to check out our other great content for more tips on emergency preparedness, survival, and outdoor living. Stay safe and stay prepared!
Questions & Answers
Q.Who should consider long term food storage for natural disasters?
A.Anyone living in an area prone to natural disasters should consider long term food storage.
Q.What types of food are best for long term storage in case of a natural disaster?
A.Canned and dried foods, bulk staples, and vitamin and protein supplements are great for long term storage.
Q.How can I store emergency food to ensure maximum shelf life?
A.Store emergency food in a cool, dry, and dark location, and follow proper storage conditions and calorie considerations.
Q.What is the recommended amount of emergency food to have on hand?
A.It's recommended to have a three-day supply of emergency food that doesn't require refrigeration, cooking, or a lot of water to prepare after a disaster.
Q.How can I ensure that my emergency food is safe to eat?
A.Follow safe handling and preparation guidelines, such as avoiding food that has been over 40°F for more than two hours and storing food at the appropriate temperature.
Q.What if I have special dietary needs or medical conditions?
A.Consider special dietary needs or medical conditions when preparing emergency food, and choose appropriate foods to avoid any complications.
Q.What if I don't have space for long term food storage?
A.Even if you don't have a lot of space, consider storing extra food in your usual inventory or setting aside a small emergency food supply in a cool, dry, and dark location.
