Surviving the Unexpected: Your Guide to Durable Emergency Food Supply

Durable Emergency Food Supply: Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can occur at any time. Being prepared for the unexpected is crucial, and one of the key essentials is having a durable emergency food supply. In case of a power outage or evacuation, a durable emergency food supply can provide peace of mind and nourishment for days or weeks at a time.

What is a Durable Emergency Food Supply?

A durable emergency food supply is a non-perishable food supply that can last for years, providing long-lasting nourishment in case of an emergency situation. It should include high-energy and high-protein foods, canned meats, canned vegetables, nuts, and dried fruit. Fresh produce, such as apples, citrus fruits, avocados, and tomatoes, can also be included as they can last up to a week when stored in a cool and dry area.

Importance of Being Prepared

Natural disasters can happen at any time, and being prepared with a durable emergency food supply can be the difference between life and death. It is important to keep a balanced diet and only stock up on non-perishable food that your family will eat. Pay attention to special dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegetarian diets.

Overview of the Article

This article will provide information on the best emergency food supplies, non-perishable food to stock up on, how to cook without electricity, and how to keep food safe during a power outage. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what is required to create a durable emergency food supply and be better prepared for any unexpected emergency situation.

Best Emergency Food Supplies

In this section, we will discuss the best emergency food supplies recommended by Forbes and Rolling Stone magazines.

Forbes List of the Best Emergency Food Supplies

Forbes has compiled a list of the best emergency food supplies that can last for years and provide long-lasting nourishment for days or weeks at a time. The author outlines five different categories including the best emergency food supply for families, vegetarians, gluten-free, appetizing fare, and bars. Here are the top picks for each category:

  1. Best Emergency Food Supply for Families: Wise Company Emergency Food Supply
    • Provides a 25-year shelf life
    • Includes 60 servings of entrees, breakfasts, and drinks
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
    • Comes in a sturdy plastic container
  2. Best Emergency Food Supply for Vegetarians: Augason Farms Vegetarian Emergency Food Supply
    • Provides a 20-year shelf life
    • Includes 11 varieties of vegetarian meals
    • Contains a total of 92 servings
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
  3. Best Emergency Food Supply for Gluten-Free Diets: Legacy Premium Gluten-Free Emergency Food Supply
    • Provides a 25-year shelf life
    • Includes 24 servings of gluten-free entrees
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
    • Comes in a compact, stackable container
  4. Best Emergency Food Supply for Appetizing Fare: Mountain House Classic Bucket
    • Provides a 30-year shelf life
    • Includes 12 different meals
    • Contains a total of 29 servings
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
  5. Best Emergency Food Bars: SOS Food Labs Emergency Food Ration Bars
    • Provides a 5-year shelf life
    • Each bar contains 3600 calories
    • Comes in a vacuum-sealed package to prevent spoilage
    • Can withstand extreme temperatures

Rolling Stones Recommendations for Emergency Food Supply Kits

Rolling Stone recommends stocking up on emergency food supplies in case of an emergency situation, natural disaster, or local conflict. Emergency food supply kits, which often come in the form of a bucket filled with individually packaged meals, provide high-calorie meals in a compact, easy-to-cook package, making them useful for long camping trips or backpacking. Here are the top picks for emergency food supply kits from various brands:

  1. Mountain House: Just in Case Classic Assortment Bucket (source
    • Provides a 30-year shelf life
    • Includes 12 different meals
    • Contains a total of 29 servings
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
  2. ReadyWise: Emergency Food Supply Variety Pack (source
    • Provides a 25-year shelf life
    • Includes 104 servings of breakfasts, entrees, and drinks
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
    • Comes in a sturdy plastic container
  3. Augason Farms: Deluxe Emergency 30-Day Food Supply (source
    • Provides a 30-year shelf life
    • Includes 11 varieties of meals
    • Contains a total of 307 servings
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
  4. Valley Food Storage: 1-Year Emergency Food Supply (source
    • Provides a 25-year shelf life
    • Includes 24 different meals
    • Contains a total of 480 servings
    • Easy to prepare, just add water
  5. Legacy Food Storage: MegaOne Meal Replacement Shake (source
    • Provides a 2-year shelf life
    • Contains 40 grams of protein per serving
    • Comes in a resealable zip-lock bag
    • Can be used as a meal replacement or snack

It is important to do your own research and find the emergency food supply that works best for you and your family.

Non-Perishable Emergency Food Supplies

In this section, we will discuss the importance of non-perishable emergency food supplies and provide a list of recommended items to stock up on before a natural disaster.

Why Non-Perishable Food is Important

Natural disasters can strike at any time, and they often cause power outages and disruptions to food supplies. This is why it's important to have a stockpile of non-perishable food items that can last for an extended period of time.

Non-perishable food items have a long shelf life and do not require refrigeration. They can be stored for months or even years and still remain safe to eat. These types of foods are also easy to prepare and can be eaten cold or heated up with a portable stove.

Recommended Non-Perishable Food Items

Real Simple magazine provides a list of non-perishable emergency foods to stock up on before a natural disaster, such as hurricanes and tornadoes. Here are some of the recommended items:

  • High-energy and high-protein foods should be consumed during emergencies, including:
    • Canned meats, such as tuna, chicken, and ham
    • Canned vegetables, such as green beans and corn
    • Nuts and dried fruit
    • Energy bars and granola bars
  • Carbohydrates are also important for energy and should be included in your emergency food supply, including:
    • Crackers and rice cakes
    • Instant oatmeal and cereal
    • Pasta and rice
    • Bread and tortillas
  • Fresh produce can also be included in your emergency food supply. Some fruits and vegetables can last up to a week when stored in a cool and dry area, including:
    • Apples and oranges
    • Citrus fruits
    • Avocados
    • Tomatoes

Cooking and Food Safety Tips

In areas at high risk for flooding, it is recommended to purchase pantry items in cans rather than jars due to the risk of contamination by flood waters. Home-canned and jarred foods should be discarded if they have come in contact with flood water as the seals may not be intact.

During a power outage, it's important to use food safely to prevent foodborne illness. Here are some tips:

  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the temperature
  • Use perishable foods, such as milk and eggs, first
  • Use a portable stove or grill to cook food
  • Use clean utensils and wash hands frequently

How to Choose the Best Durable Emergency Food Supply

In this section, we will provide tips on how to choose the best durable emergency food supply.

Factors to Consider

When choosing an emergency food supply, there are several factors to consider:

  • Shelf life: Emergency food supplies should have a long shelf life to ensure that they are still safe to eat when you need them. Look for supplies with a shelf life of at least 25 years.
  • Calories per serving: Emergency food supplies should provide ample calories to sustain you during an emergency situation. Look for supplies that provide at least 1200 calories per day.
  • Variety: During an emergency situation, it's important to have a variety of foods to prevent boredom and ensure that you are meeting your nutritional needs. Look for supplies that offer a variety of meals and snacks.
  • Ease of preparation: Emergency food supplies should be easy to prepare, as you may not have access to a kitchen or cooking equipment. Look for supplies that only require water to prepare.
  • Packaging: Emergency food supplies should be packaged in a sturdy and waterproof container to protect them from damage and contamination.

Recommended Brands

Here are some of the recommended brands for durable emergency food supplies:

  • Wise Company: Wise Company offers a wide range of emergency food supplies, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Their supplies have a 25-year shelf life and are easy to prepare.
  • Augason Farms: Augason Farms offers a variety of emergency food supplies, including freeze-dried fruits and vegetables. Their supplies have a 30-year shelf life and are packaged in sturdy, stackable containers.
  • Mountain House: Mountain House offers a variety of emergency food supplies, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Their supplies have a 30-year shelf life and are easy to prepare.
  • ReadyWise: ReadyWise offers a variety of emergency food supplies, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Their supplies have a 25-year shelf life and are packaged in sturdy, waterproof containers.

DIY Emergency Food Supplies

If you prefer to create your own emergency food supply, here are some tips:

  • Choose non-perishable foods that are high in protein and calories, such as canned meats, nuts, and energy bars.
  • Store food in airtight containers to prevent spoilage.
  • Label containers with the date of purchase and expiration date.
  • Store food in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best durable emergency food supply is an important step in preparing for an emergency situation. Consider the factors listed above and do your research to find the perfect supply for you and your family.

Be Prepared with Durable Emergency Food Supplies

In this article, we have discussed the importance of having durable emergency food supplies in case of a natural disaster or emergency situation. By stocking up on non-perishable foods with a long shelf life, you can ensure that you and your family have enough to eat during an extended power outage or other emergency situation.

We have also provided tips on how to choose the best emergency food supply, including factors to consider and recommended brands. Whether you choose to purchase a pre-made emergency food supply or create your own, it's important to be prepared and have enough food on hand to last for several days or weeks.

At 15 Seconds, we are committed to providing high-quality content on a variety of topics. Check out our other articles for more tips on how to be prepared for emergencies and stay safe during natural disasters.

FAQ

What is a durable emergency food supply?

A durable emergency food supply is non-perishable food that can last for an extended period of time and be eaten during a natural disaster or emergency situation.

Who should have a durable emergency food supply?

Everyone should have a durable emergency food supply, as natural disasters and emergency situations can happen to anyone at any time.

How long do emergency food supplies last?

Emergency food supplies can last for years if stored properly. Look for supplies with a shelf life of at least 25 years.

What should be included in an emergency food supply?

High-energy and high-protein foods, carbohydrates, and fresh produce should be included in an emergency food supply. Variety is also important.

How do I choose the best durable emergency food supply?

Consider factors such as shelf life, calories per serving, variety, ease of preparation, and packaging when choosing an emergency food supply.

What if I prefer to create my own emergency food supply?

Choose non-perishable foods that are high in protein and calories, store them in airtight containers, and label them with the date of purchase and expiration date.