List of Emergency Food Supplies

Emergencies arise unexpectedly usually without much warning so it is essential you have an emergency food supply at home, in your car or with you while hiking or hunting. Items in an emergency food supply should have durable packaging, a long shelf life and include nutrients the body needs to survive.

Canned Items

• Canned items often feature a long shelf life. There are a variety of canned products that can be used for emergency food including fruits, vegetables, stews, soups and meats. A can opener is an essential tool to include in your supply as cans are hard to open without one.

Dried Items

• Dried items last several years if properly stored. Fruits and vegetables dried in the oven or food dehydrator contain essential vitamins and nutrients for survival. They can be eaten as is or reconstituted with water. Rice is a common emergency food supply because of its long shelf life and low cost. Powdered milk is an ideal protein source for a emergency food supply that takes up little space and tastes almost like fresh milk when mixed with water.

Vacuum Sealed Meals

• A variety of vacuum sealed meals are available from outdoor stores and online retailers. The meals, designed to have a long stable shelf life, features a durable vacuum sealed construction. The military and Red Cross use these types of meals as they store well and contain a balance of essential nutrients. Meal kits often include an entree, utensils, side dishes, matched, toilet paper and a powdered drink.

Cooking Tools

• Pans and cooking tools such as spatulas and slotted spoons enable you to cook dishes out of your emergency food supply. A small portable propane stove is essential especially in situations where you may have to use contaminated water. Boil the water to reconstitute your dried meals. One-pound propane canisters store easily and can withstand most natural disasters.

Utensils

• Utensils are an important item to have in your emergency food supply. Plastic silverware and paper napkins come packed in sealed bags or boxes and keep for long periods of time. They are an ideal item to have in an emergency supply because they are disposable, saving water for drinking instead of washing the utensils.