10 Foods You Need In Your Emergency Kits

The world is a chaotic and crazy place. Although we’d like to believe that we will always have access to clean water, fresh food, and emergency care, the reality is that natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and political unrest are part of the equation, and thinking that we are immune to such things will likely put us in a situation where we are completely unprepared to care for ourselves and our family members.

The topic of putting together emergency preparedness kits is something that used to be talked about covertly, for those preparing for “the end of the world” or some other imminent disaster. As word has spread about the concept of the emergency preparedness kit, more and more people have gotten on board and started storing and packing things that they might need in emergency situations. We take for granted the fact that we can zip to the store for light bulbs, candles, water, and other things that become hot commodities once the stuff hits the fan. Knowing what to collect and how to store it become essential knowledge as we live in an increasingly uncertain world where the next disaster is just around the corner.

What should I begin collecting?

There are two types of emergency preparedness that we should begin focusing our efforts on: 1) Emergency kit items that you can use if you are staying in your home, and 2) Emergency kit items that are portable enough to take with you should you have to travel. For the purposes of this article, we will begin by highlighting how do begin collecting items for use in your home, but the topic of mobile emergency kits should also be prioritized as well, in the event that you must travel to find safer living conditions. Learn as much as you can about both types of emergency preparedness so you can anticipate your needs in all types of situations.

 

Emergency Preparedness Kits: Foods To Stockpile

One of the most important things you must prioritize when building your emergency kit is your food and water supply. Keeping your energy up with proper food and water rations will ensure that you have what it takes to see the situation through. Certain types of food and drink would not be suitable for an emergency; let’s look at those items that will give you the most bang for your buck and provide you with energy for whatever storm you are weathering.

Food items should have long expiration dates so that you can put them away for several months at a time. Check expiration dates every 6-12 months, and rotate your stockpile so that you can use older items while you accumulate new assets. Here are some things you must stock up on in the event of an emergency:

 

  1. Peanut butter

Peanut butter is a great source of energy, and it’s delicious! Chock full of healthy fats and protein, an added benefit of peanut butter is that you do not have to refrigerate it after opening. You may choose to purchase in economy sized jars, or they now sell powdered peanut butter that can be reconstituted with water; this type of PB has an astonishing shelf life, and it can literally travel with you wherever you go.

 

  1. Crackers

Crackers are, for the most part, a non-perishable food if you store them correctly. They work well for bite-sized sandwiches, and they are a great go-to snack if you are moving around and working. Purchasing crackers in individually sealed snack packs works well to preserve freshness; do your best to store them in a place that is kept cool and dry.

 

  1. Nuts and trail mixes

Nuts are a high-fat, high energy food, and they are great for fiber content too. Mix nuts with your favorite dried fruits and vacuum seal for freshness; this quick and easy snack can be used for a quick lunch or for in between meals when you need a little pick me up.

 

  1. Cereal

Cereal is a quick energy meal or a snack, and it can be consumed both dry and wet. Consider buying in bulk to vacuum seal if you have the capabilities, or you may choose to purchase in individual packages to preserve freshness. If you are concerned about rationing, individual bags are good too, as you won’t be tempted to overeat.

 

  1. Granola bars, power bars

The perfect portable meal, granola bars and power bars are loaded with available protein and energy. Most bars stay fresh for at least six months, and they are an excellent source of carbohydrates and protein. Many granola bar manufacturers sell variety packs, where family members can pick and choose their favorite flavors to fill up on.

 

  1. Dried fruit

Fruits such as apricots, raisins, pineapple, and coconut taste great, and they are a great source of pick-me-up energy. Add dried fruit to nuts or cereal for some variety, or have some dried fruit as a healthy dessert after a meal.

 

  1. Canned meat

Does this suggestion gross you out? Don’t worry, we’re not talking about stew meat or canned oysters—–items like canned tuna, salmon, and chicken will all be readily available sources of protein that will make you feel like you’re eating something more substantial than your normally carb-heavy fare. Canned meats can also be added to pasta for a quick and filling meal. Canned meats can last up to two years in a pantry, so they are an economical product to have on your own “market” shelves.

 

  1. Canned veggies

Not everyone’s favorite, canned veggies can provide a valuable source of vitamins and minerals that you will need to keep up your strength. Pick up a few every time you go to the grocery store for other items, and soon you’ll find your private stockpile growing.

 

  1. Canned soups and chili

Believe it or not, canned soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can, if need be. They also provide high levels of vitamins, minerals, and proteins, but watch the sodium; this can work against you in a situation where water is scarce as well.

 

  1. Bottled water

Of course, it would be preferable to continue using your Fill2Pure Water Purifier, but the reality is that when an emergency situation strikes, you might not always have access to clean, fresh, drinking water. Stock up on bottled and distilled water for drinking and cooking to ensure that you won’t fall victim to any pathogens and bacteria that could be found in stagnant water.

 

Although an emergency situation is not something any of us anticipate with excitement, knowing that we have done our best to prepare and protect our family during an uncertain time will give you all the comfort that you can get through adversity and come out stronger on the other side.

 

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Written by HealthStatus Crew
Medical Writer & Editor

HealthStatus teams with authors from organizations to share interesting ideas, products and new health information to our readers.

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