Most experts suggest having a food supply that can get you through, at a minimum, the first 72 hours or so after a major weather event or natural disaster. For obvious reasons, make sure these are non-perishable food sources, and make your food kit as nutritious as possible.
Here is a list of food items to always keep on hand, or to assemble quickly if you have time:
- Peanut butter
- Whole-wheat crackers
- Nuts and trail mixes
- Cereal
- Granola bars and power bars
- Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins
- Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey
- Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas
- Canned soups and chili
- Bottled water—a three days' supply of at least one gallon per person per day.
- Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade
- Powdered milk
- Multivitamins
If you are preparing for a predicted weather event that might keep you housebound for a week or more, buy these fresh items that have a relatively long shelf life:
- Apples
- Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits
- Avocados
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams
- Cucumbers and summer squash
- Winter squash
- Hard, packaged sausages, such as pepperoni
