How to Stock an Emergency Food Pantry

An emergency food pantry is a supply of food that your family could survive on in the event that a disaster ever cuts off your normal access to food, water and utilities. Having a well-equipped emergency food pantry is a necessity for every family. Emergency foods should be non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration, cooking or water. Beyond these guidelines, what you put in your emergency pantry is largely up to you.

Things You'll Need

• Non-perishable goods
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Select non-perishable foods that can be eaten without refrigeration, cooking, or water. Feel free to pick any foods that your family likes. Some good foods to stock are canned goods such as meats and vegetables, nuts and nut butters, crackers, cereals, dried fruit and protein bars. You may also want to consider including a few treats or other comfort foods that might help your family stay calm during a stressful time.

• 2

  Stock enough food to feed your family for at least three days. If you have any pets, be sure to include emergency food for them as well.

• 3

  Make sure that you have any necessary tools to open your emergency foods, such as a manual can opener or scissors.

• 4

  Stock plenty of water, one gallon per person per day for at least three days. FEMA recommends purchasing bottled water, but you can also store your own water if you first thoroughly clean your storage containers.

• 5

  Routinely review your emergency supplies: check expiration dates on food and water, throw out any expired items, and consider eating or drinking items that are close to their expiration. Be sure to replace these items so that you maintain a three-day supply.

• 6

  As you experience changes in your family, such as the addition of new family members or pets, continually evaluate whether your emergency pantry is equipped to sustain you in the event of a disaster. Purchase or discard items depending on your new needs.