Foods to Store for Survival
When a natural disaster or other emergency strikes, the safety and well-being of you and your family could depend on a proper supply of food. It isn't enough to wait until you hear warnings of a disaster to purchase food--by then, you'll be competing with everyone in your town at the grocery store. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends storing at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Canned Goods
Canned versions of basic food staples are essential foods to store for survival. They can last for years without going bad, so they won't need to be discarded and replaced as often if they aren't used. Canned fruits and vegetables are a long lasting food that will provide essential vitamins and nutrients during an emergency situation. Canned protein (such as beans and meats) can be used to maintain energy. You'll feel satisfied on less food so your supplies will last longer.
Other Protein Sources
Another form of protein that can be stored for long periods of time during a survival situation are bars, such as protein bars and high-fiber granola bars. These can often be eaten as meal replacements, especially if they contain vitamins and minerals. Check the ingredient list before purchasing. Some protein and granola bars contain mostly sugar and resemble candy bars in taste, appearance and nutrition; therefore, they may not be ideal as meal replacements. Canned or vacuum sealed nuts should also be kept on hand as emergency protein sources.
Raw Staples
Basic raw staples can help tie other ingredients together to make complete meals. Flour and baking powder are versatile because they can be used dry for breading other ingredients, as well combined with water to make batters. Dried pasta, rice or other grains also last for an extended period of time and can be boiled and tossed with canned meats or vegetables for a filling meal in a survival situation.
Quick Energy Sources
While food items that contain protein and fiber can provide long-term energy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends also having quick energy sources on hand as well for snacks. Boxes of crackers and jars of peanut butter can be stored for an extended period of time and when eaten together, crackers and peanut butter can help boost energy. Dried fruit can also provide quick nutrients when fresh fruit is not an option. Even wrapped hard candies may be stored for survival because their sugar content can temporarily raise energy levels.
Infant Food
If you have an infant, keep large sealed cans of formula on hand for emergencies. You can also store jarred baby food for long periods of time.
Comfort Food
Comfort food is any food item that a person eats for purely comfort or stress-reduction. These foods may vary widely depending on people's personal tastes, but common examples include potato chips or sugary snacks. Comfort food may not serve a physical health purpose during a survival situation, but FEMA recommends having them stored in order to provide slight relief during a stressful situation. Vacuum-sealed snacks last for an extended period of time.
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