There’s no denying it. In recent years, there’s been an increase in the number and severity of natural disasters in the United States. Many of these disasters, including floods, hurricanes, and wildfires, devastated the areas where they hit. They left thousands without electricity and, in some cases, water and food.
If you’re concerned about natural disasters, one of the best solutions is to have an emergency food kit ready at all times. The question, of course, is what should you include in an emergency food kit? For the answer, read on. We’ve got a list of the essential items every emergency food kit should contain below.
Plenty of Clean, Potable Water
Drinking water is the most critical item to stock. It’s essential for life! Experts suggest skipping small bottles and going for something much bigger—a 5-gallon water jug, for example, or specialized water tanks. Water purification tablets are also a good idea to stock in your kit.
Canned Food of Every Type
Canned food, while not as nutritious as fresh, lasts much longer. The recommended canned foods include canned fruits, vegetables, soup, beans, you name it. In the winter, canned food could be your family’s lifesaver if you need long-term food sources.
Jerky
Beef, chicken, pork, and other jerkies are a source of valuable protein. Like canned goods, they have a long shelf life. You can add extra flavor to your jerkies if you also pack the essential spices for your survival food.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is like dried jerky in that it has a long shelf life. It’s also a great quick energy source and doesn’t weigh a lot.
Nuts
A large and varied supply of nuts is necessary for any emergency food kit. They have lots of protein, vitamins, good fats, and minerals. If they’re stored correctly, they will have a decent shelf life. When considering what you should include in an emergency food kit, nuts are a definite must.
Crackers
With a longer shelf life than bread, crackers are an emergency food kit essential. Plus, they’re lightweight and easily portable.
High-Quality, Nonfat Milk Powder
Nonfat milk powder is a better choice than whole milk powder because fats don’t store well over long periods. Also, according to the USDA, if stored correctly, you can store powdered milk indefinitely.
Honey
Honey? Yes, definitely! It doesn’t go bad and is dense in calories. Plus, you can use honey on wounds because it’s an antimicrobial.
In Conclusion
All the items on today’s list have a long shelf life and provide essential nutrients like protein, fat, and carbs. Be sure to store your emergency food kit in a clean, dry, dark area of your home that’s safe from vermin. Hopefully, you’ll never need it. But if you do, your emergency food kit is now stocked with the essentials you and your family need to survive.
