Why Having an Emergency Food Supply is Crucial
Natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies can strike at any time. When they do, having an emergency food supply can be the difference between life and death. Emergency food supplies are non-perishable food items that can be stored for long periods of time and used in case of an emergency. These supplies are essential to have on hand to ensure that you and your loved ones are well-fed and nourished during times of crisis.
How Much Emergency Food Should You Have
While it may be difficult to know exactly how much emergency food to have on hand, the general rule of thumb is to have a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each person in your household. This should be enough to get you through most short-term emergencies.
Emergency Food Supplies are Not a Replacement for a Normal Diet
It's important to note that emergency food supplies are not a replacement for a normal, healthy diet. They are designed to be used in emergencies only and should not be consumed on a regular basis. It's recommended that you keep a three-day supply of non-perishable food in case of emergency, but you should also have a plan for how you will obtain food and water in the event of a long-term emergency.
Best Emergency Food Supplies According to Experts
There are many different types of emergency food supplies available on the market, but not all are created equal. To help you choose the best emergency food supplies for your needs, we've compiled a list of recommendations from experts in the field.
Forbes' Emergency Food Supplies List
Forbes has compiled a list of the best emergency food supplies for a variety of situations, from natural disasters to camping trips. The list includes options for families, vegetarians, those with gluten-free diets, and those seeking flavorful meals, among others. Kits range from freeze-dried meals in a bucket to emergency food bars to high-end noodle packs and canned fish. While survival food kits are not a replacement for a normal diet, it is recommended to keep a three-day supply of non-perishable food in case of emergency.
Your Best Digs' Recommendations
Your Best Digs recommends the Mountain House 3-day non-perishable kit as the best emergency food option, followed by military surplus MRE pouches and the Datrex DX2400F three-day supply. It emphasizes the importance of considering calorie counts, stability in high temperatures, predictable shelf life, efficient preparation, heat packs, and variety when choosing emergency food supplies. The article also suggests having a plan for rotating out older food and conducting annual emergency-preparation drills. Your Best Digs recommends the Mountain House Just in Case emergency food supply kit for those who need their food to be ready-to-eat quickly without needing to replace food every few years.
Popular Mechanics' Recommendations
Popular Mechanics recommends having a 2-week supply of food and water for every household member and suggests buying emergency food kits as they offer complete, nourishing meals with longer shelf lives. The article also provides advice on what to consider before buying an emergency food kit and recommends some top brands to choose from.
Rolling Stone's Recommendations
Rolling Stone recommends the best emergency food supplies to stock up on now, whether for emergencies, camping, or other outdoor activities. The best emergency food supply kits come in a bucket filled with individually-packaged meals that can be cooked easily and quickly. The guide considers factors such as shelf life, servings, nutrition, taste, and preparation. Some of the recommended brands include Mountain House, ReadyWise, Survive2Thrive, Augason Farms, and 4Patriots.
When Choosing Emergency Food Supplies, Take These Things into Account
The difference between survival and disaster can be the choice of the right emergency food supplies. When selecting emergency food supplies, consider the following factors:
Nutritional Value
It's crucial to take their nutritional value into account when selecting emergency food supplies. To sustain you in an emergency, emergency food supplies should offer a good balance of nutrients and calories. Look for options that offer a range of vitamins and minerals as well as protein and carbohydrates.
Shelf Life
In order for emergency food supplies to be stored for extended periods of time, they should have a long shelf life. Look for choices with at least 25 years of shelf life. This will guarantee that your emergency food supplies are still in working order in case of a long-term emergency.
Preparation is important.
In situations where power and water are outlying, emergency food supplies should be simple to prepare. Look for options that are simple to prepare, like ready-to-eat meals or meals that can be prepared with little to no advance cooking.
Taste is important.
Even though flavor may not be the most crucial element in an emergency situation, it can significantly impact morale. Look for foods that are flavorful and enjoyable to eat in case you need emergency food.
Portability is Important.
You might need to leave right away or move your emergency food supplies to a different location in case of emergency. Look for options that are portable and simple to move, such as lightweight freeze-dried meals or compact meals.
The cost of each
When selecting the appropriate supplies for your needs, it's important to take cost into account because emergency food supplies can be pricey. Look for choices that not only fit your budget but also offer good value for your money. Keep in mind that purchasing emergency food supplies is an investment in your safety and well-being, so it's crucial to consider quality when making your purchase.
Top Emergency Food Supplies on the Market
Here are some of the top emergency food supplies on the market, based on recommendations from experts:
Mountain House Just in Case Classic Bucket
The Mountain House Just in Case Classic Bucket is a 29-serving emergency food supply kit that includes a variety of entrees and breakfast options. The meals are freeze-dried and have a shelf life of 30 years. The kit is designed to be easy to prepare, with most meals requiring only water and 10 minutes of cooking time.
Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Supply
The Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Supply includes 307 total servings and provides an average of 1,854 calories per day. The kit includes a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The meals are freeze-dried and have a shelf life of up to 25 years.
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply
The ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply includes 60 servings of entrees and breakfast options. The meals are freeze-dried and have a shelf life of up to 25 years. The kit is designed to be easy to prepare, with most meals requiring only water and 12-15 minutes of cooking time.
Datrex Emergency Survival Rations
The Datrex Emergency Survival Rations are a compact food bar that provides 2,400 calories per day. The bars have a 5-year shelf life and are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions. The bars are an ideal option for those who need a portable and long-lasting emergency food supply.
Wise Company Emergency Food Supply
The Wise Company Emergency Food Supply includes 104 servings of entrees and breakfast options. The meals are freeze-dried and have a shelf life of up to 25 years. The kit is designed to be easy to prepare, with most meals requiring only water and 12-15 minutes of cooking time.
Survival Tabs Emergency Food Supply
The Survival Tabs Emergency Food Supply is a compact, nutrient-dense food option that provides 100% of the recommended daily intake of 15 essential vitamins and minerals. The tabs have a shelf life of up to 25 years and are designed to be lightweight and portable.
Conclusion
Choosing the right emergency food supplies is crucial for your survival in an emergency situation. By considering factors such as nutritional value, shelf life, preparation, taste, portability, and cost, you can find the best emergency food supplies for your needs. The top emergency food supplies on the market, such as the Mountain House Just in Case Classic Bucket, Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Supply, and ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply, provide high-quality meals with long shelf lives and easy preparation.
Tips for Storing Emergency Food Supplies
Storing emergency food supplies properly is crucial to ensure that they are still usable in case of an emergency. Here are some tips for storing emergency food supplies:
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Emergency food supplies should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will help to preserve the quality and shelf life of the food.
Use Airtight Containers
If you are storing emergency food supplies in bulk, it's important to use airtight containers to prevent exposure to moisture and air. This will help to prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of the food.
Rotate Supplies
Emergency food supplies should be rotated regularly to ensure that they are still usable. Check the expiration dates on your supplies and replace any that have expired. It's also a good idea to use and replace your emergency food supplies on a regular basis to ensure that they are still fresh and palatable.
Store Water Separately
In addition to storing emergency food supplies, it's also important to store water separately. Water is essential for survival and should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Consider Freezing
If you have the space, you can also consider freezing some of your emergency food supplies. Freezing can help to extend the shelf life of certain foods and can also help to prevent spoilage.
Conclusion
Storing emergency food supplies properly is crucial to ensure that they are still usable in case of an emergency. By storing your supplies in a cool, dry place, using airtight containers, rotating supplies, storing water separately, and considering freezing, you can ensure that your emergency food supplies are ready for use when you need them.
The last thing to think about is the conclusion.
To sum up, having emergency food supplies on hand is crucial for your survival in an emergency. You can find the best emergency food supplies for your needs by taking into account elements like nutritional value, shelf life, preparation, taste, portability, and cost. The Mountain House, Just in Case Classic Bucket, Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Supply, and ReadyWise Emergency FoodSupplies are a few of the best emergency food supplies available.
It's crucial to store emergency food supplies in a cool, dry location, use airtight containers, rotate supplies, store water separately, and think about freezing when storing them. You can make sure that your emergency food supplies are prepared for use when you need them by heeding these recommendations.
We are dedicated to giving you the best information and tools for emergency preparedness at SurvivalGen. Check out our other fantastic articles on first aid kits, survival equipment, and more. Be ready for anything that comes your way and remain safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should consider buying emergency food supplies?
Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies and disasters.
What are the best emergency food supplies on the market?
Some of the top options include Mountain House, Augason Farms, and ReadyWise.
How long do emergency food supplies last?
The shelf life of emergency food supplies can vary, but many options can last up to 25-30 years.
What should I consider when choosing emergency food supplies?
Factors to consider include nutritional value, shelf life, preparation, taste, portability, and cost.
How should I store emergency food supplies?
Store them in a cool, dry place, use airtight containers, and rotate supplies regularly.
But aren't emergency food supplies expensive?
While some options can be pricey, it's important to consider the long-term benefits of being prepared for emergencies.
