Survive the Pandemic: Uncommon Emergency Food Supply Guide
The Importance of Preparing an Emergency Food Supply for Pandemics
As the recent COVID-19 pandemic has shown, emergencies can happen at any time, leaving people without access to basic necessities such as food and water. In times of pandemics, the availability of food supplies can be disrupted due to supply chain disruptions, panic buying, and social distancing measures. Therefore, it is crucial to have an emergency food supply for pandemics to ensure that you and your family have enough to eat during an emergency.
Statistics on Households with Emergency Food Supply
According to a survey conducted by Ready.gov, only 57% of American households have a three-day supply of non-perishable food items in case of an emergency. This means that almost half of the households in the US are not adequately prepared to deal with food shortages during emergencies such as pandemics.
To ensure that you and your family are not among the unprepared, it is crucial to take the time to prepare an emergency food supply for pandemics. In the following sections, we will discuss what to consider when preparing an emergency food supply, tips for storing the food supply, where to buy emergency food supply, and more.
What to Consider When Preparing an Emergency Food Supply for Pandemics
When preparing an emergency food supply for pandemics, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure that you have enough food to last during an emergency. Here are some of the things to consider:
Recommended Amount of Food Supply
The Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each person in your household. However, during pandemics, it is recommended to have a two-week supply of food to ensure that you have enough food to last for the duration of the emergency.
Types of Food to Include in the Emergency Food Supply
When preparing an emergency food supply, it is essential to choose the right types of food that have a long shelf life, are easy to prepare, and provide the necessary nutrients. Here are some of the types of food to include in the emergency food supply:
Canned Foods
Canned foods are an excellent choice for emergency food supply as they have a long shelf life and are easy to prepare. Some of the canned foods to consider include canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups. When choosing canned foods, consider those that are low in sodium and have no added sugar.
Dried and Dehydrated Foods
Dried and dehydrated foods are another option for emergency food supply. These foods are lightweight, have a long shelf life, and are easy to store. Some of the dried and dehydrated foods to consider include dried fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Freeze-Dried Foods
Freeze-dried foods are a popular choice for emergency food supply as they are lightweight, have a long shelf life, and are easy to prepare. These foods are also rich in nutrients and have a great taste. Some of the freeze-dried foods to consider include freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, meats, and entrees.
Foods with Longer Shelf-Life
Foods with longer shelf-life are also a great choice for emergency food supply. Some of the foods to consider include peanut butter, nuts, seeds, crackers, and cereal.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Food for the Emergency Supply
When choosing food for the emergency supply, consider the following factors:
Nutritional Value
Choose foods that are rich in nutrients to ensure that you and your family get the necessary nutrients needed during an emergency.
Caloric Density
Choose foods that have a high caloric density to ensure that you have enough energy during an emergency.
Shelf Life
Choose foods that have a long shelf life to ensure that they do not expire quickly and can last for the duration of the emergency.
Tips for Storing Emergency Food Supply
Storing emergency food supply properly is crucial to ensuring that the food remains safe and edible during an emergency. Here are some tips for storing emergency food supply:
Best Location for Storing the Emergency Food Supply
The best location for storing emergency food supply is in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid storing the food in areas exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Some of the best places to store emergency food supply include:
- A basement
- A pantry
- A cupboard
- A closet
Recommended Storage Conditions to Enhance the Shelf Life of the Food
To enhance the shelf life of the food, it is essential to store the food in the right conditions. Here are some of the recommended storage conditions:
- Store the food in airtight containers to prevent moisture and air from getting in.
- Use oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen from the storage container and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Store the food away from sources of heat, such as stoves and ovens, to prevent spoilage.
- Store the food away from chemicals such as cleaning products and pesticides, which can contaminate the food.
How to Protect the Food from Pests and Rodents
It is essential to protect the food from pests and rodents to prevent contamination and spoilage. Here are some tips for protecting the food from pests and rodents:
- Store the food in airtight containers to prevent pests and rodents from getting in.
- Store the food away from areas where pests and rodents are likely to be, such as basements and attics.
- Use traps and baits to control pests and rodents in the storage area.
- Regularly inspect the food for signs of infestation, such as holes in the packaging and droppings.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your emergency food supply remains edible and safe to consume during an emergency.
Where to Buy Emergency Food Supply for Pandemics
When it comes to buying emergency food supply for pandemics, it is essential to choose a reliable supplier that provides high-quality products at an affordable price. Here are some of the places to buy emergency food supply for pandemics:
Online Retailers
Online retailers are a great place to buy emergency food supply for pandemics as they offer a wide selection of products, competitive prices, and home delivery. Some of the popular online retailers to consider include:
Amazon: Amazon offers a wide selection of emergency food supply options from different brands and suppliers, making it easy to find the right products that meet your needs.
Ready Store: Ready Store is an online retailer that specializes in emergency preparedness products, including emergency food supply. The company offers a wide selection of products, including freeze-dried and dehydrated foods, at affordable prices.
Local Supermarkets
Local supermarkets are another option for buying emergency food supply for pandemics. While they may not offer the same selection as online retailers, they provide the convenience of being able to purchase the products in person. Some of the types of food to consider buying from local supermarkets include:
- Canned foods such as fruits, vegetables, and soups
- Dried goods such as pasta, rice, and beans
- Snack bars and energy bars
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Crackers and cereal
Emergency Food Supply Companies
Emergency food supply companies specialize in providing high-quality emergency food supply products that are designed to last for a long time. Some of the popular emergency food supply companies to consider include:
Augason Farms: Augason Farms is an emergency food supply company that offers a wide selection of products, including freeze-dried and dehydrated foods, at affordable prices.
Wise Company: Wise Company is another emergency food supply company that offers a wide selection of products, including freeze-dried and dehydrated foods, at affordable prices.
By considering these options, you can find the right place to buy emergency food supply for pandemics that meets your needs and budget.
Stay Prepared with Emergency Food Supply for Pandemics
In times of pandemics, having an emergency food supply is crucial to ensure that you and your family have enough food to last during an emergency. By following the tips discussed in this article, you can prepare an emergency food supply that meets your needs and budget. Remember to consider the recommended amount of food supply, the types of food to include in the emergency food supply, and the factors to consider when choosing food for the emergency supply.
When storing the emergency food supply, it is essential to store the food in the right conditions to ensure that it remains safe and edible during an emergency. By following the recommended storage conditions and protecting the food from pests and rodents, you can ensure that your emergency food supply remains edible and safe to consume.
Whether you choose to buy emergency food supply from online retailers, local supermarkets, or emergency food supply companies, it is essential to choose a reliable supplier that provides high-quality products at an affordable price.
Remember, staying prepared with emergency food supply for pandemics is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your family during an emergency. Check out our other great content for more tips on emergency preparedness and staying safe during pandemics.
Answers To Common Questions
Who needs an emergency food supply for pandemics?
Everyone needs an emergency food supply for pandemics to ensure they have enough food during an emergency.
What types of food should be included in an emergency food supply for pandemics?
Non-perishable foods such as canned goods, dried foods, and high-energy bars are best for an emergency food supply.
How much emergency food supply should I have for pandemics?
It is recommended to have at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food for pandemics.
What if I can't afford to buy emergency food supply for pandemics?
Start with small purchases of non-perishable foods and gradually build up your emergency food supply over time.
How long does emergency food supply last for pandemics?
The shelf life of emergency food supply varies depending on the type of food. Check the expiration dates on the food packaging and rotate food as needed.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Choose emergency food supply that meets your dietary needs and allergies. Consider freeze-dried fruits and vegetables or gluten-free options.
